Best Tent Camping near Kingston Springs, TN
Several tent campgrounds surround Kingston Springs, Tennessee, with options ranging from primitive walk-in sites to established campgrounds with basic amenities. Bells Bend Park offers ten primitive tent-only sites requiring a short hike from the parking area, while Long Hunter State Park Campground provides tent campsites with lake access about 35 miles east of Kingston Springs. Both locations cater exclusively to tent campers seeking natural settings away from RV hookups and developed facilities. Whooping Crane Farm, located just 12 minutes from downtown Nashville, offers additional tent camping options with Cumberland River views.
Most tent sites near Kingston Springs feature basic setups on natural surfaces with minimal site preparation. At Bells Bend Park, campers must pack in all supplies and pack out all trash, though firewood is provided on site. Walk-in tent sites typically include fire rings and sometimes picnic tables, but amenities remain limited. One camper noted that Bells Bend has "10 total sites. No drive up. Pack it in, pack it out." Water access varies significantly between locations - Long Hunter State Park provides direct water access for filtering from the lake, while other locations like Bells Bend require campers to carry in their water or walk to the outdoor center for running water. Portable toilets are available at some parking areas, with more developed facilities often requiring a short hike.
Tent campsites in this region offer varied experiences based on location and proximity to water. At Long Hunter State Park, primitive sites sit directly on the water, creating excellent swimming and fishing opportunities. "It is a great swimming spot with flat rocks to hang out on," according to one visitor's review, though they also warned about ticks being prevalent. Bells Bend Park provides a more secluded woodland experience with sites positioned on a hill among trees. During summer months, insect repellent is essential for tent campers in this region, particularly at waterfront sites. Most locations permit pets on leash, allowing complete families to enjoy the tent camping experience. Fall camping offers more comfortable temperatures and typically fewer insects than peak summer months.
