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.
"Campground Review: Montgomery Bell State Park The Four Mile Campground is nestled in a hollow offering shade and creekage on one side plus several of the trailheads start nearby and you are close"
"It is a beautiful state park known as the"Queen of Tennessee's State Parks". There are 4,000 acres with mountain biking, fishing, hiking, picnic areas, kayaking/canoeing, and a golf course."
$24 - $28 / night
"There is a walking trail, swim area, and Cheatham dam is close by. There are a few play grounds on the property. Do not come here if you want to do anything outside of camping."
"We hiked the Bicentennial Trail (13.3 miles long from start to finish) which was also shaded and with geocaches. We went with our 2 dogs and 2 kids."
"Nashville north koa was a nice campground with a proximity to Nashville but away from the bustle. We stayed for a week and enjoyed ourselves."
"The proximity to the Opry and surrounding sites is fantastic. Top that off with front desk, event and maintenance staff that were all super nice and you’ve got a great combo."
$69 - $95 / night
"I had plenty of space to roam around in the river even while visiting during a peak time."
"Not sure where to start as the pictures don't do justice to the location. We stayed late in November and absolutely loved it! Full hook-ups and blazing fast WiFi."
$22 / night
"Easy access to the River. Absolutely beautiful mornings with the fog over the water to look at while you sip your coffee. The sites are spaced well apart. No bad sites here."
"There are several recreation areas nearby to enjoy in addition to Harpeth."
$10 - $11 / night
"Bells Bend Park is close to the city but nature all around. Farmland with spots of woodland. Primitive camping , in the trees on a hill. Group only. There are some tables and some fire rings."
"No drive up. Pack it in, pack it out. Firewood provided. Call the outdoor center for availability. Campground is open year round."
$100 / night
"The property is 12 minutes from downtown Nashville, making it a perfect Glamping location. Being close to great restaurants is definitely a plus."
"Whooping Crane Farm is located In such a great spot, just outside Nashville, it is easy to get to, but convenient to everything. The camp spot is fantastic!"
"Highway noise is really bad but there’s not anything they can do about that. Close by restaurants and Camping World for any needed supplies."
"But given where they are located, crammed in with two other RV parks and a Camping World all next to the highway, there isn't any way to make things better."
$32 - $50 / night
"Paved roads, showers, playground, Big lake side sites wth shade. lots of space between the campsites. fire rings, picnic tables."
"The campsite was surrounded by trees and it was a quick walk to the lake. The bathroom and shower facilities were clean and had warm water."
$50 / night
"Lock A campground located near Ashland City,TN on the Cumberland River. It’s located a little bit upriver from the Cheatham lock and dam. We were just a little bit off of the river in site 36."
ScoutStaff was wonderful at helping with all needs...booking tours too. Can shuttle a bus to downtown Nashville. Nice pool. Live music every night at the campground. Clean restrooms, laundry and the entire park.
ScoutThis campground is nice. Pool and indoor park is great for the kids. But this place is really really quiet. Not bad but we were scared to make a sound.
ScoutStayed on a Thursday night at a pitch a tent spot. Beautiful farm but unfortunately the tent spots are right next to a very noisy 4 lane highway.
TravelerStaff pleasant, site easy enough to get into, no shade for “short stays”, overall nice, quaint park for overnight parking on the way to another destination. I was disappointed- NO shower house for RVers, only for cabin guest.
GuideThis was a very nice resort camping spot. I loved the not tub with the jets. I tent camped on the mulch and electric/ water site. I just wanted to see what the mulch was like. The big chest , checkers and jumping pillow was pretty cool. And if you want wood you can charge your card on file and they'll bring your wood to your site.... since they don't just have it in the office. It's also very close to town so you can get a Uber or even have food delivered if you actually don't want to cook. Feels very much like glamping.
ScoutThe owner was very nice and informative. I was able to have peace and quiet for the rest of my stay
GuideI've lived close to Cages Bend for over 50 years, but have never camped here until this past weekend. Man I didn't know what i was missing. This little hidden gem is the perfect spot on Old Hickory Lake for camping and taking in an amazing sunrise. You can easily launch your kayak from the shore or catch that big bass you've been trying for. They have a boat launch if you want to bring that or your Jet ski with you. Lots of trees help keep the summer heat from beating down on you and did I mention wildlife? We saw tons of Deer, Ducks, Geese, squirrels, Turtles and snakes, but thankfully the snakes stayed in the water! The camp host, Tanya and Donnie(i hope i got their names right) were amazing from Day 1. Very helpful and kind, blows my mind to see any negative reviews about them, they were truly Amazing! The campground is kept very clean and they take pride in keeping it that way. We stayed in spot 28 the first night, then moved over to 30 for 4 nights. Both of them are great sites. We have verizon phone/internet service and it worked perfectly there. I could go on and on, but i'll finish by saying, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND a visit to Cages Bend Campground. We camped at over 50 campgrounds and this is in my top 3!
ScoutManager is rude and place is trashy
ScoutWe go a few times a year. It’s a little older but they are doing a lot of work to build and grow the park.
Kingston Springs camping options range from developed campgrounds with full amenities to primitive sites along river corridors. The area sits at approximately 450-600 feet elevation with dense deciduous forest covering much of the landscape. Several waterways including the Cumberland River, Harpeth River, and Piney River create natural boundaries and recreation corridors that shape camping opportunities within a 25-mile radius.
Hiking trails: Montgomery Bell State Park Campground offers extensive trail networks through mature forest. "Great family friendly park with lots of hiking and historical sites. There is a beautiful waterfall and an adorable old church," notes Faith S.
River activities: Lock A Campground provides direct access to the Cumberland River with excellent fishing and boating opportunities. "Loved our camping experience by the water. Friendly staff and beautiful scenery. Bring the fishing poles!" reports Blake B.
Swimming spots: The Piney River at Piney River Resort offers crystal-clear water perfect for warm weather recreation. "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," shares Elizabeth S.
Historical exploration: Several campgrounds feature historical sites dating to early settlement periods. "We visited here with a church group because it is the founding place of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church. It is beautiful, peaceful and serene," explains Alicia B. about Montgomery Bell.
Riverfront locations: Many campers praise the waterfront sites at Harpeth River Bridge Campground for their scenic settings. "We cook, kayak, camp, & fish. It has a peaceful family atmosphere, beautiful sunsets, clean grounds & bathhouse, safe & secure sights, gated at night and patrolled daily by Sherrifs Dept," writes M D.
Mature forest canopy: Shaded campsites rank highly in summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F. "We loved our site 32 which was fully shaded all day long which was great in August given the heat and humidity," notes a Lock A camper.
Concrete pads: Level camping surfaces with proper drainage get consistent positive mentions. "The site was within a quarter inch of level and was a concrete pad. Each site had its own trash can that were emptied frequently," explains Guy M. about COE Cheatham Lake Lock A Campground.
Access to trails: Connectivity between camping areas and hiking paths receives positive reviews. "The park has tons of activities and good hiking trails," reports Tammy P. about Montgomery Bell State Park.
Reservation windows: Most popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Make your reservations early!! Beautiful area lakes, groomed trails, nice hosts - highly recommend," advises Andrea R. about Montgomery Bell State Park.
Site spacing considerations: Some campgrounds have more privacy than others. "The state park is absolutely gorgeous. We chose to stay in the tent only camping sites. They are spread out far enough that you don't feel like you are in one another space," explains Lexi S.
Road conditions: Several campgrounds have challenging access roads. "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," warns Pat&Amanda D. about Piney River Resort.
Primitive options: Bells Bend Park offers basic tent camping without modern facilities. "10 total sites. No drive up. Pack it in, pack it out. Firewood provided. Call the outdoor center for availability. Campground is open year round. Portapotty in the parking lot or hike to the outdoor center for flushing toilets and running water," explains Krista A.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. "With a great pavilion, Vb court, ball diamond, and playground, the far side of the camp is perfect for families, groups, and events," notes Stæven F. about Montgomery Bell State Park.
Swimming safety: River swimming requires supervision. "The swimming hole was great! We watched the younger crowd jump off the cliff into the water," shares Elizabeth S. about the Piney River.
Weather planning: Summer heat and humidity can be challenging with children. "We took our 3 young kids during monsoon season and the staff where amazing and getting the kids out and into nature!" says Amy P. about Montgomery Bell State Park Campground.
River play: Shallow creek areas provide natural entertainment. "Children can wade in the creek all day, why parents enjoy sitting outside under all the shade trees," mentions Tammy P.
Site selection: Research specific sites before booking. "Very nice place with level sites, electric and water hookups, and dump station," notes a Seven Points camper.
Spacing needs: Assess site dimensions for larger rigs. "The site I had was a little awkward backing into and the water hookup was on the wrong side for my camper," shares Nathan R. about Montgomery Bell.
Electrical capacity: Most campgrounds offer 50-amp service for larger units. "The electricity was 50/30 and the power pole looked new," notes Guy M. about Lock A campground.
Seasonal considerations: Seven Points operates from April through October with limited off-season options. "Great campground with water and electric hook-ups. The campsites are level cement pads with large well spaced sites. If you can get a lake view it is wonderful," advises Tony D.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Kingston Springs, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Kingston Springs, TN offers a wide range of camping options, with 120 campgrounds and RV parks near Kingston Springs, TN and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Kingston Springs, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Kingston Springs, TN is Montgomery Bell State Park Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 64 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Kingston Springs, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Kingston Springs, TN.
What parks are near Kingston Springs, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 parks near Kingston Springs, TN that allow camping, notably J Percy Priest Lake and Old Hickory Lake.
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