Best Campgrounds near Kingston Springs, TN
Kingston Springs, Tennessee sits between several notable camping areas that range from developed RV resorts to primitive tent sites. Montgomery Bell State Park Campground, located about 15 miles northwest of Kingston Springs, offers tent camping, RV sites with full hookups, and cabin accommodations in a forested setting. Piney River Resort along the Piney River provides riverside RV sites and cabins with level concrete pads. The surrounding region includes Corps of Engineers campgrounds at Cheatham Lake and several privately operated facilities that cater to both short-term campers and extended-stay visitors.
Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout the area, with many campgrounds operating year-round but experiencing peak visitation from April through October. Campgrounds managed by the Corps of Engineers typically operate on a seasonal schedule, with Lock A Campground open from April to late October. Most developed sites require reservations, particularly during summer weekends and holidays when waterfront locations fill quickly. Primitive camping areas have varying permit requirements and stay limits depending on the managing agency. The region experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters, with spring and fall offering the most comfortable camping conditions. As one camper noted about Lock A Campground, "We loved our site which was fully shaded all day long which was great in August given the heat and humidity."
Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, particularly sites along Cheatham Lake, Old Hickory Lake, and the Harpeth River. Campers report excellent fishing opportunities and water access for kayaking and canoeing. Many campgrounds feature boat ramps or docks near the camping areas. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, campers appreciate the combination of natural settings with modern amenities at the more developed sites. The proximity to Nashville (approximately 25-30 miles) makes these campgrounds popular weekend destinations for city residents. Several campgrounds feature hiking trails, including connections to the Bicentennial Trail from Lock A Campground. Although sites can be crowded during peak seasons, the overall camping experience in the Kingston Springs area balances accessibility with natural beauty.
