Camping sites near Hampshire, Tennessee range from riverside spots to forested retreats with notable elevation changes across the area. The region sits along the western Highland Rim with elevations between 650-950 feet, creating diverse microclimates within short distances. Cell reception can be nonexistent in ravines but improves at higher elevation campsites, requiring campers to download maps before arrival.
What to do
Hike historical trails: At Meriwether Lewis Campground, trails range from easy to moderate difficulty with interpretive stops. "Pretty water falls not far from the camp site. History and adventure!" notes camper Brittni F. The trails interconnect without clear markings, so bring a map as "many cross paths with no directions on how to get back to camp," warns Ashley R.
Cave exploration: Venture into Southport Saltpeter Cave for guided underground tours combined with primitive camping. Located 12 miles south of Columbia, this historic cave offers a unique camping experience. "Enjoyed this rough camping trip and Spelunking with our Royal Ambassador boys (1st to 9th grade). Buddy gives a guided tour along with camping privilege's," reports Daniel L.
Water activities: Bring kayaks, tubes, or fishing gear for river recreation. "We enjoyed sitting in beach chairs and letting the current wash over us. The swimming hole was great! We loved watching the younger crowd jump off the cliff into the water," shares Elizabeth S. about Piney River. The Big Swan River, Buffalo River, and Duck River all offer water recreation opportunities within 30 minutes of Hampshire.
What campers like
Private riverside sites: Water access ranks high on camper satisfaction. "Fall Hollow Resort has several separate areas along the bends where you can hear the water trickling. It is pretty amazing," writes Crystal C. The Big Swan River provides both shallow and deeper areas suitable for different water activities.
Clean facilities: Modern bathhouses receive consistent praise. "Clean bathhouse with flush toilets and cold water sink. No Shower. Great for tent camping," notes Anita C. about Meriwether Lewis Campground. David Crockett State Park offers more amenities with "new and private showers" according to Shana D., who adds that "the clear creek to play in is gorgeous!"
Cultural experiences: The area's proximity to Amish communities adds unique appeal. At Marcella Falls RV Park, campers enjoy watching horse-drawn buggies pass by. "It was so cool sitting outside and watching the amish buggies drive by! We visited some amish farms close by and found all kinds of stuff! Their candy is so good!!!" shares Donald S.
What you should know
GPS and navigation challenges: Roads leading to campsites can be challenging, especially for larger rigs. Pat and Amanda D. warn about Piney River: "the drive in from the highway was very scary on narrow, windy roads with dropoffs on the side... both were scary in our Class A towing a car hauler."
Site variability: Quality and amenities differ significantly between sites at the same campground. At Thousand Trails Natchez Trace, Laura H. notes "The park has a variety of types of sites, some are full hookup, some are not. The park looks like it is in the middle of expansion but not actively being worked on."
Off-grid preparation: Many primitive sites lack connectivity. "I had absolutely no cell service through Verizon and my T-Mobile 5g internet had no reception either (even with a booster). Luckily, I was able to rely on my Starlink," explains Emerson F. about Thousand Trails Natchez Trace.
Tips for camping with families
Creek access for kids: Shallow water play areas provide natural entertainment. At David Crockett State Park Campground, "the clear creek to play in is gorgeous! The park had so much to offer. Lots of hiking trails, covered bridge, fishing lake w/boat & kayak rentals plus a beautiful waterfall that is great for sunsets!" reports Shana D.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer ranger-led programs and historical exhibits. "We had a great outdoor class to learn about snakes, hiked the trails, and enjoyed the falls," shares Steve G. about David Crockett State Park, adding that staff were "super friendly."
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Paved roads make cycling safe for younger campers. "We took our three kids tent camping overnight and we had a great time! All roads and campsites are paved so the kids all road bikes easily!" writes saddie R. about Meriwether Lewis Campground.
Tips from RVers
Bridge clearance concerns: Watch for low bridges on approach routes. Laura H. warns about Thousand Trails Natchez Trace: "They have a low bridge right outside of their park that prevents you from getting here the easy way. The bridge is at 12ft if I remember correctly, it is too low for most 5th wheels and many class As."
Leveling challenges: Some sites require extra blocks or levelers. At Piney River Resort, one reviewer noted they "couldn't get level and couldn't put our slides out. All around rough stay. I'd say this is a much better stay for smaller RVs."
Full-hookup availability: Water and electrical connections vary widely between campgrounds. At Kahu Farm's Ravine Lookout, primitive camping means no hookups while Marcella Falls RV Park offers full connections. Larger parks like Thousand Trails have a mix, with Emerson F. noting "A lot of the lakeside sites are taken up by resident campers."
