Marion County Park sits along the Tennessee River in Jasper, offering camping options at 1,200 feet elevation. Located near Lookout Mountain, the area features a humid subtropical climate with distinct seasons. Camping spots vary from waterfront sites to more secluded inland options, with summer temperatures typically reaching the mid-80s to low-90s°F.
What to do
Explore waterfalls and canyons: Visit Cloudland Canyon State Park for hiking adventures. "You can camp by the water at Tim's Ford Lake. Great for kayaking and fishing. Family friendly," reports one visitor who stayed nearby. The park offers multiple waterfall hikes of varying difficulty.
Try disc golf and zip lines: At Bigfoot Adventure RV Park & Campground, outdoor activities abound. "Great weekend get away. Clean, great walking trails, fun zip lines," notes a camper. They also have "disc golf maybe" according to another visitor who observed ongoing additions to the park.
Go kayaking on Tims Ford Lake: The water activities in the region provide refreshment during hot summer months. "Great for kayaking, fishing, swimming, and family gathering," reports a visitor to a nearby state park. Kayak rentals are available at some locations, or you can bring your own.
What campers like
Private tent camping areas: Cloudland Canyon State Park offers secluded tent sites. "Love the tent-only serenity of the walk-in sites. There is a separate parking lot at the back of the park for the walk-in sites, which are a short distance away (easy to haul your gear)," shares a visitor. These sites include a tent pad, picnic table, and fire ring.
Waterfront camping spots: The lake access at Fairview Campground receives consistently positive reviews. "Great campground on the water and spacious sites. Water access at your campsite to swim or kayak. Nice bathhouse, clean facilities," writes one camper. Many sites offer direct lake access.
Wildlife viewing: Campers can spot local wildlife throughout the region. "Our backcountry campground had a fire pit and even a picnic table, and was nestled beside a babbling brook. The next morning, the sun's early rays could be seen from our tent opening, making for an epic start to the day," shares a visitor to a nearby park.
What you should know
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping near Jasper, Tennessee, options exist at several nearby campgrounds. "The yurt village is spaced away from each other and off the road, and offer a lot of privacy; the loop that serves the yurts is not connected to any other road, and has a shelter, playground, and bathhouse," notes one visitor to a nearby state park.
Sites fill quickly: Reservations are recommended, especially for waterfront camping spots. "Tim's Ford 'Fairview' is very beautiful. Very nice and peaceful. It's not a huge campground so you may want to reserve early," advises one visitor.
Bathhouse quality varies: While some campgrounds maintain excellent facilities, others may have limitations. "The bath houses were horrible. The one near us had one toilet and one shower with little curtains across them. The toilet was clean but no way would I use the shower," reports a camper at Marion County Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with play areas: Some locations offer dedicated children's facilities. "Kids love the pool and jumping pillow. Very rocky throughout campground," notes one visitor about a KOA near Lookout Mountain. These amenities can keep children entertained between outdoor adventures.
Consider cabin alternatives: For families new to camping or those wanting more comfort, cabins offer an alternative to tents or yurts near Jasper. "The Tiny House is one of several rental options on this property. A lot is packed into a small space with so many creative touches," writes a visitor to Paradise Meadows. Many campgrounds offer similar options.
Choose sites with swim access: During summer months, water access becomes important. "We had a large site. Picnic table and fire ring. Easy access to water from site and had two boat launches," reports a camper. Swimming areas provide cooling recreation for children during hot Tennessee days.
Tips from RVers
Check site size limitations: Some campgrounds have restrictions that may affect larger rigs. "Sites are not set up for large campers," notes a visitor to a nearby state park. Always confirm whether your specific RV length can be accommodated before booking.
Select the right campground loop: At Fall Creek Falls State Park, campers report varying experiences by loop. "Campground A & B are great for families with kids. C&D are more quiet. Pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out," advises one RVer. This consideration affects comfort during your stay.
Consider accessibility to hiking trails: Many RVers appreciate sites with trail access. "There is a great trail that connects the campgrounds with the Woodland Trail. Once you've parked at the campground, there's no need to get in your car until you leave!" shares an enthusiastic visitor to Fall Creek Falls State Park.
