Cabin camping near Hampshire, Tennessee spans across several counties in the central part of the state, with elevations ranging from 600 to 900 feet. The area sits within Tennessee's Highland Rim region, creating diverse terrain with limestone outcroppings and hardwood forests. Water features prominently in local camping options, with the Duck River, Piney River, and numerous lakes providing recreational opportunities.
What to do
Kayaking on the Buffalo River: Buffalo River access points are available near several campgrounds including Crazy Horse Recreational Park. The river offers multiple trip options with varying difficulty levels. "We stayed one night, two days, and kayaked on our second day. The 10 mile section we floated was great for everyone who was with us!" reports Emily G.
Hiking area trails: The region features extensive trail systems through diverse terrain. Montgomery Bell State Park Campground maintains hiking paths suitable for various skill levels. One visitor noted, "The park is absolutely gorgeous. We chose to stay in the tent only camping sites... The facilities were maintained and the staff was extremely helpful."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple water bodies provide fishing access throughout the area. At Piney River Resort, visitors can fish directly from their campsites. "We've enjoyed daily time sitting by the river while our kids play and swim," shares Lindsay L., who stayed at a riverside site.
What campers like
Riverside camping sites: Direct water access ranks highly among visitor preferences for cabin rentals. At Piney River Resort, waterfront sites receive consistent praise. One camper describes, "We chose a site along the beautiful Piney River with full hook-ups, level cement pad, pavilion with lights and ceiling fan, kind neighbors and the wonderful sounds of silence."
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Quality bathhouses and common areas matter significantly to cabin campers. "The bathrooms start out pretty clean, but can quickly get nasty with the traffic of kayak renters and other campers," notes one Crazy Horse Recreational Park visitor, highlighting the importance of facility maintenance during busy periods.
Historic sites access: The region features numerous historical locations within short drives of camping areas. "Meriwether Lewis death/gravesite was nearby and interesting to check out," mentions Emerson F. about staying at Thousand Trails Natchez Trace, highlighting the historical context of the area.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Water recreation availability varies significantly by season and recent rainfall. "A lot of the full time campers killing the park and little maintenance done on the sites," notes Stephen A. about one campground, indicating the impact of seasonal occupancy patterns.
Road access considerations: Some camping areas have specific routing requirements. At Thousand Trails Natchez Trace, Emerson F. warns: "There is a low bridge (11ft) that you need to pass under to get onto the Natchez Trace Parkway. If you can't fit, you have to take Napier road north several miles."
Cell coverage limitations: Internet and phone service varies widely across the region. "I had absolutely no cell service through Verizon and my T-Mobile 5g internet had no reception either (even with a booster)," reports Emerson F. about Thousand Trails Natchez Trace, a consideration for those needing connectivity.
Tips for camping with families
Water play areas: Safe swimming spots provide essential summer activities for families. "We sat in beach chairs and let 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 Fall Hollow Resort.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. Campers RV Park receives positive mentions for its family amenities. "Activities everywhere! There are pavilions and out buildings setup with games, hammocks, and all kinds of fun family-friendly things to see and do," notes Tyler F.
Quiet vs. active areas: Some campgrounds designate specific family zones. At Crazy Horse Recreational Park, "There is a family side if you prefer a more quiet, kid-friendly atmosphere," notes Emily S., with another visitor confirming, "Family side quiet time begins at 10 pm."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Concrete pads at David Crockett State Park Campground receive positive mentions from RVers. "We really liked that the pads were concrete and level....took a lot of pressure off of the leveling process campground is clean and very quiet at night," shares Nancy B.
Route planning: Access roads to cabin camping areas near Hampshire vary in quality and size restrictions. One visitor to Piney River Resort cautions: "The drive in from the highway was very scary on narrow, windy roads with dropoffs on the side. We took the staff recommended route in and Co-Pilot's route out and both were scary in our Class A towing a car hauler."
Reservation timing: Securing cabin reservations requires advance planning, particularly for waterfront locations. "Good luck getting a lakeside site since I was told only 8 are available and are full most of the time," advises Sable A. about Thousand Trails Natchez Trace.
