The Chattanooga River Valley creates a distinctive environment for glamping in Harrison, Tennessee, with elevations ranging from 700 to 1,200 feet throughout the surrounding camping areas. Water-focused activities dominate the camping experience with Chickamauga Lake offering 810 miles of shoreline for recreation. Winter temperatures typically remain above freezing, with summer highs reaching into the 90s during peak camping season.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: Fall Creek Falls State Park provides multiple waterfall trails ranging from easy to strenuous. "The cable trail is not far from the campsite," notes Tyler J., highlighting one of the more adventurous routes that requires some scrambling to reach the falls.
Mountain biking: Fort Mountain State Park offers technical mountain biking trails with significant elevation changes. "Most of the trails except the Gahuti are multi-use and there is a strong community of mountain biking here," shares Travyl Couple, who adds that some trails might be challenging for beginners due to "major elevation changes, loose gravel and rocks."
Boating access: Skull Island provides excellent boating options on Chickamauga Lake. "This campground is so cool... There are waterfront campsites which we really LOVE!!" states Isabella H., who enjoyed being able to "play in the water during the day to escape the hot weather."
Kayaking: Tennessee Wall Camp offers primitive camping with water access. "Great sites with fire pits," mentions Lakisha D., with another camper noting the "beautiful sites, close quarters with other campers" while highlighting easy access to the water.
What campers like
Private outdoor spaces: Marion County Park provides spacious sites with water access. "We had a large site. Picnic table and fire ring. Easy access to water from site and had two boat launches," reports Ronald S., highlighting the direct water access many visitors seek.
Kid-friendly amenities: Chester Frost Park offers family-oriented facilities beyond standard camping. "This place is definitely somewhere you wanna bring your kids they would love it! There is a man made beach with a playground and loads of camping lots next to the river!" exclaims Haley H.
Tent-only tranquility: Cloudland Canyon State Park provides specialized tent-only areas away from RVs. "Love the tent-only serenity of the walk-in sites... The sites have a tent pad, picnic table and fire ring, and lots of privacy as the sites are very far from each other," reports Abby M., who appreciates being able to "have the convenience of my car-but can avoid the noise of RVs."
Seasonal activities: Camping in fall or spring provides optimal weather conditions for Harrison glamping. "We will be back in the fall," notes one visitor to Fall Creek Falls, while multiple reviews mention that early spring and late fall offer the best hiking conditions with moderate temperatures in the 60-70°F range.
What you should know
Reservations required: Most Harrison glamping locations fill quickly during peak seasons. "Reservations for Fall Creek Falls must be made well in advance," notes one camper, particularly for premium waterfront sites.
Variable site quality: Chester Frost Park has significant differences between camping loops. "Gold camp sites. Big swimming area bath houses need work done," explains Constance, highlighting that amenities can vary within the same park.