Percy Priest Lake sits at the center of many Hendersonville-area camping destinations, creating a freshwater recreation hub at 490 feet elevation. The camping season near Hendersonville extends from mid-March through late October, with peak water temperatures reaching 85°F in July and August. Campgrounds range from primitive sites to full-hookup RV parks, with most requiring reservations 3-6 months in advance during summer weekends.
What to do
Kayaking at multiple access points: Bledsoe Creek State Park Campground offers lakefront camping with boat-in access and calm water that's ideal for kayakers. "This is a small area but has some nice trails. Camping is quiet most nights and the water is calm for those who like to fish," notes Chris G.
Hiking cedar-filled terrain: Cedars of Lebanon State Park features unique hiking among rare cedar glades. "The natural area where it's located features tons of endemic species to the area!" says Phoebe A., who recommends exploring the distinctive limestone ecology during spring wildflower season.
Live country music events: Grand Ole RV Resort hosts nightly entertainment during summer months. "Live music every night was nice," reports Ed S., while another camper found the atmosphere enjoyable: "The entertainment for NYE was seriously the most fun we've had out in a while. Nothing says Nashville like live country music!"
Swimming beach access: Seven Points Campground maintains a swimming beach with sandy volleyball courts. "There is a camp store at the main office. The pool is very nice and there are games, a playground and a pavilion," writes one visitor, while Jeni N. adds: "Right across the lawn was a beach for swimming, clean bathrooms, and a sandy court for volleyball."
What campers like
Waterfront campsites: Cedar Creek offers prime lakeside camping with many sites directly on Old Hickory Lake. "This is one of my favorite campsites. On Old Hickory Lake. Accommodates both tents and RV's. Most sites have a lovely view of the lake if not directly along the shore," writes Kathy G.
Proximity to downtown Nashville: Two Rivers Campground provides shuttle service to Nashville attractions. "There's a $10 round trip shuttle that takes you to downtown Nashville from the campground parking lot which is super convenient!" shares Megan A., making it ideal for visitors wanting to explore Music City.
Spacious camping loops: Seven Points features well-designed camping areas with privacy between sites. "The campsites are level cement pads with large well spaced sites. If you can get a lake view it is wonderful," reports Tony D., while another camper notes: "The sites are decently spaced apart with many trees."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Bledsoe Creek State Park offers frequent wildlife encounters. "Deer would just walk up near you and just say hello. It's so peaceful," writes Grace E. However, Kyle S. cautions: "Our dogs picked up ticks every day, and we had a few as well. Watch out for lyme and other tick born illnesses."
What you should know
Seasonal operation differences: Several campgrounds near Hendersonville operate on limited schedules. Cedar Creek runs "April 16 to October 12," while Seven Points operates "April 1 to October 30," making winter camping options more limited.
Train noise at some campgrounds: Grand Ole RV Resort sits near active railroad tracks. "There is a train that passes by on the nearby track a couple of times a day, but it was never super early or late and didn't bother us at all," notes Randi P., though Jeff P. cautions: "Trains rolling by at 3 am is not how I like to spend my night."
Limited shade at newer facilities: Safe Harbor RV Resort offers beautiful lake views but minimal shade. "Sites 1 thru 6 full sun, remainder of sites have partial to full shade," reports Randy about Cedar Creek, while Susan & Kevin W. advise: "we preferred staying on the marina-side. It was shadier and more private."
Reservation lead times vary: The most popular campgrounds book quickly during peak season. "Summer weekends fill up fast," with many campers noting reservations for lakefront sites should be made 3-6 months in advance at Seven Points and Cedars of Lebanon.
Tips for camping with families
Water park packages: Nashville Shores combines camping with waterpark access. "The waterpark is just steps away," notes Dawn C., though she advises: "I would suggest not eating food within the park it is over priced and not very tasty, go to the marina restaurant or eat at your campsite."
Playground options vary: Family-friendly facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. Lacy M. notes about Grand Ole RV Resort: "They show a playset on their map and it was two regular swings and a baby swing. This was disappointing since we had little ones."
Seasonal family events: Cedars of Lebanon hosts special weekends for families. "Their halloween weekend is a great time of fun for the kids!" shares Justin L., making it a popular choice for families during autumn camping trips.
Swimming beach safety: Cedar Creek provides monitored swimming areas during peak season. One visitor notes: "Swimming beach, playground, and marina both within walking distance," making it convenient for families wanting water activities without boat rentals.
Tips from RVers
Site length accuracy matters: When booking RV sites, verify exact measurements. Beth H. advises about Safe Harbor: "Be very cautious of the site lengths. Some are extremely short and I'd say the measurements are nearly exact...It was exactly the length we needed with nearly zero wiggle room."
Dump station logistics: Several campgrounds offer dump stations but no full sewer hookups. "Tight fit for my 43' motorhome, especially maneuvering dump station," Randy warns about Cedar Creek, so larger rigs should confirm access before booking.
Electric hookup variations: Power connections differ between campgrounds. Gregory G. shares about Cedars of Lebanon: "To my surprise I opened the electric pedestal, and there was only 50 amp service. I'm set up for 30 amp, so I had to use an adapter," recommending RVers bring appropriate adapters.
Backing assistance available: Some campgrounds offer parking help for RVers. "A man even led us to our site in a golf cart and helped my fiancé back in and park our trailer, which was a huge help," reports Randi P. about Grand Ole RV Resort, while another camper appreciates: "Staff assists in parking and anything you need."
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