Tent campsites near Hampshire, Tennessee offer primitive camping experiences along rivers, in farmlands, and near historic cave systems. The area is characterized by rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests typical of Middle Tennessee's Highland Rim region. Campsites generally range from 500-1000 feet in elevation, with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F during peak season.
What to do
Cave exploration and tours: Southport Saltpeter Cave provides guided tours with your camping reservation. "Southport Saltpeter Cave is a historic cave located 12 miles south of Columbia TN. We offer cave tours, primitive camping, hiking, and exploring," explains reviewer Buddy B. about the Southport Saltpeter Cave experience.
Fishing opportunities: Access to the Cumberland River makes fishing a popular activity for campers. At Whooping Crane Farm, one visitor noted, "There is a pond on the property, which the host, Ellen, allowed us to fish in. The River would be difficult to access, at least while we were there in late August, as there is a big drop off from the bank."
Stargazing sessions: The open farmland areas provide excellent night sky viewing. A camper at Ray of Hope Guest Ranch described the experience: "We watched the moon rise over a hill directly in front of the campsite, and we even saw a brilliant shooting star blaze across the sky for what seems like an eternity."
What campers like
Proximity to Nashville with rural feel: Campers appreciate locations that balance seclusion with convenience. A visitor at Ray of Hope Guest Ranch and Horse Motel remarked, "The campsite is near the small town of Petersburg, TN where you can find two gas stations and a Dollar Store." Another camper at Whooping Crane Farm noted it's "12 minutes from downtown Nashville, making it a perfect Glamping location. Being close to great restaurants is definitely a plus."
Waterfront camping: Sites along the Cumberland River offer unique perspectives. "The site is gated and right on the river, so the only traffic you have to worry about are the barges that are passing by on the river, or any boaters that are out," reports a Whooping Crane Farm visitor.
Dark skies for astronomy: The rural setting creates excellent conditions for stargazing. "Most campgrounds in Tennessee are buried in the woods, but not this yurt campsite at Ray of Hope. The yurt sets on the side of a beautiful Tennessee Hill offering almost a complete view of the nighttime sky," shares one enthusiastic camper.
What you should know
Limited facilities at most sites: Hampshire area tent camping is primarily primitive. A reviewer at Bells Bend Park advises: "10 total sites. No drive up. Pack it in, pack it out. Firewood provided. Call the outdoor center for availability. Campground is open year round. Portapotty in the parking lot or hike to the outdoor center for flushing toilets and running water."
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance booking. At Southport Saltpeter Cave, "Buddy gives a guided tour along with camping privilege's," indicating the need to coordinate with the property owner.
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat can be intense in Middle Tennessee. For Ray of Hope, one camper suggests: "If it's hot outside, you might want to bring a battery operated fan."
Tips for camping with families
Group-oriented sites available: Some locations cater specifically to groups. Bells Bend Park offers "Primitive camping, in the trees on a hill. Group only. There are some tables and some fire rings. But the sky is immense." Another reviewer mentioned the affordable rates: "$10.00 a night per site for Davidson Co. residents, $11.00 a night per site for out of County residents, you can reserve all 10 sites for $50.00."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer learning experiences for children. Southport Saltpeter Cave has hosted youth groups successfully: "Enjoyed this rough camping trip and Spelunking with our Royal Ambassador boys (1st to 9th grade)," reports one group leader.
Programming options: Check for structured activities at parks. According to a Bells Bend Park visitor, "The park offers a lot of programs to base your camping around. The trails are through farmland and bike friendly."
Tips from RVers
Tent-focused region: Hampshire area camping primarily serves tent campers with few RV accommodations. Most sites, including "The Hollar" and Fox Valley Farm, are walk-in or hike-in tent sites without RV hookups.
Alternative glamping options: For those seeking comfort without an RV, several locations offer glamping alternatives. At Whooping Crane Farm, a reviewer described: "The canvas tent was decorated nicely, with some cool lanterns and a wood burning stove. There was a battery powered fan, that lasted most of the night. The bed was comfortable for glamping."
