Campsite options near Hohenwald, Tennessee range from free tent-friendly spots to full-service RV parks with concrete pads and electric hookups. The region experiences seasonal flood risks along waterways during spring rains, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through August. Primitive sites often provide access to smaller water features like creeks while established campgrounds maintain bathroom facilities with varying levels of maintenance.
What to do
Kayaking the Buffalo River: Several campgrounds provide direct river access for paddlers, with some offering rental and shuttle services. At Crazy Horse Recreational Park, campers appreciate the water activities: "We had so much fun! It really is in the woods, complete with songbirds to wake you up and crickets to sing you to sleep. The creek makes a relaxing backdrop to your campfire time at night."
Hiking forest trails: Local paths range from gentle walks to more challenging terrain with minimal signage. "Careful on the hiking trails though, many cross paths with no directions on how to get back to camp. We wondered around for a few hours before making it out," notes one visitor at Meriwether Lewis Campground, Milepost 385.9.
Swimming in clear waters: The region offers several natural swimming areas, particularly during summer months. One camper at Piney River Resort reports: "The water is crystal clear and cold. 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."
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Many campgrounds maintain flush toilets and shower facilities with varying levels of upkeep. As one camper at David Crockett State Park Campground notes: "Bathrooms and showers were wonderful. The staff was super friendly, and the area was wonderful!"
Riverfront camping: Sites adjacent to waterways tend to fill quickly but offer direct access to water activities. A visitor to Piney River Resort shared: "We are on the river side. Spaces are nicely spaced. Views are perfect. Staff is very nice. The non river side is the same as most rv spots."
Primitive site spacing: Less developed campsites typically offer more distance between neighbors. "Heartstone is a primitive campground, with no hook-ups or electricity. They only allow dry camping for trailer campers," reports a camper at Heartstone Campground, adding "It's very reasonably priced, pretty, and SO worth the drive!"
What you should know
Limited cell coverage: Signal strength varies significantly throughout the region. At Thousand Trails Natchez Trace, one camper reported: "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."
Seasonal camp hosts: Staff availability changes throughout the year at many sites. At David Crockett State Park Campground, a camper mentioned: "The host at campground #1 has been there 9 years!"
Fire ring restrictions: Policies vary regarding campfires, with some locations prohibiting them entirely and others providing established rings. According to a Meriwether Lewis camper: "Sites have some space between them but sparse trees for separation. I am just travelling through the area but if I lived within a days drive of here I'd be here regularly."
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration opportunities: Shallow water features provide child-friendly activities during warmer months. At Meriwether Lewis Campground, a family noted: "Trails to hike that are challenging but not too hard for kids of multiple ages. Pretty water falls not far from the camp site."
Designated quiet areas: Some campgrounds separate family zones from more social sections. A Crazy Horse Recreational Park visitor explained: "Has a family side and another rowdy side across the river. Family side quiet time begins at 10 pm."
Bike-friendly pathways: Paved roads within some campgrounds accommodate children's bicycles. "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!" reported a family who stayed at Meriwether Lewis Campground.
Tips from RVers
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. At Piney River Resort, an RVer cautioned: "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."
Site leveling considerations: Concrete pads at certain locations provide easy setup while others require more work. "Paved sites, fire ring, fire wood for sale, very clean campground, and only 45 mins to Nashville," notes a camper at Piney River Resort.
Bridge clearance limitations: Height restrictions affect access for larger vehicles at some locations. One RVer at Thousand Trails Natchez Trace warned: "Most importantly, there is a special way to get into this park. 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."
