Camping opportunities around La Vergne, Tennessee feature a mix of established campgrounds and primitive sites nestled among the dense hardwood forests surrounding Percy Priest Lake's 14,200 acres of water. With an elevation of approximately 490 feet and a humid subtropical climate, the region experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through August and mild winters. Seasonal camping restrictions and high demand during summer months make advance reservations essential at most locations.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing access: Four Corners RV Resort provides immediate water access with convenient amenities for water sports enthusiasts. "We spent 5 days on a lakeside site- it was beautiful, mostly clean (goose droppings), and pretty spacious! Still a new campground next to an established marina. They are adding more sites and a small pool to the existing amenities like a beach, a hammock pergola, dog washing station, and wave runner rentals," notes one camper.
Hiking options: The region offers multiple trail difficulties for day hiking. Long Hunter State Park features primitive sites with lakeside access. "If you enjoy carrying all your essentials on your back and sucking your water through a filtered straw then this is the camping/backpacking park for you! Actually though excellent practice run on your primitive skills. Pack distribution and what you need, no major climbs. This is a good trail to try out your skills before attempting a more challenging trip," explains a backpacker.
Swimming opportunities: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas during warmer months. "We took a walk around section 2, and section 3. There was a lot more room, and seemed a little more private. I would recommend them over section 1. Wood was available for purchase in small bundles for $6 each cash only," notes a camper at Cedars of Lebanon State Park.
What campers like
Concrete pads and level sites: Many RV sites around La Vergne feature paved, level pads that require minimal setup time. "We stayed in section 1, site 22. It was right beside the shower house. It was a pull through site, but it was a little tight. To my surprise I opened the electric pedestal, and there was only 50 amp service. I'm set up for 30 amp, so I had to use an adapter," reports a Cedars of Lebanon visitor.
Winter camping access: Unlike seasonal campgrounds, several sites remain open year-round. "My wife and I camped here on February 15 2020. Super easy check in. We traveled in a 29' motorhome. While making reservations, section 1 has very small, cramped together sites. I would suggest reserving your spot a bit in advance. I was actually surprised by how many people were camping in February," notes a Cedars of Lebanon camper.
Proximity to shopping: Nashville I-24 Campground offers convenient access to urban amenities while maintaining a campground atmosphere. "We stayed here for work and were very impressed by the care they take for this park. The staff was all very helpful and spent a lot of time making sure campers have a great experience. There is a busy road outside of the park, but that also means great restaurants and quick drives to things we wanted to go do," reports a visitor.
What you should know
Insects and wildlife: Ticks, mosquitoes and other insects present challenges depending on season and location. A visitor to Long Hunter State Park warns: "Primitive campsite 1 has 3 long log benches and a grill. It is located directly by the water, so you have a water filtration source at your finger tips. However, it was the most ticks any of us had seen, including tiny seed ticks. We left with multiple bites, and were constantly picking them off each other and our gear."
Bathroom access limitations: Some campsites have challenging bathroom arrangements. "First of all, I love COE campgrounds. They are usually clean, scenic, and have lots of space between campsites. Poole Knobs has all of that, but the bathrooms were ridiculously hard to get to. If you get a site along the lake, expect a long walk and then an arduous climb to the bathroom and showers or hop in your vehicle and drive there," notes a reviewer.
Airport noise: The proximity to Nashville International Airport means occasional flight noise at certain campgrounds. A Nashville Shores visitor notes: "Oh yea no one mentioned that this place is on the flight path of the international airport."
Tips for camping with families
Halloween events: Seven Points Campground offers organized seasonal activities during fall months. "We have stayed at Seven Points around Memorial Day for 3 years now. This year was fabulous! Love the improvements they have made and the clear out they did on some of the spots. We had great neighbors and enjoyed the beach! We love how it is secluded and clearly camping but minutes from shopping!"
Playground availability: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas for children. "The kids loved swimming in the pool. The water around is clear and beautiful. We had a very lovely sunset as we walked around park," mentions a Four Corners RV Resort visitor about their family experience.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple locations offer chances to observe local wildlife. "We stayed here for the long Presidents Day weekend in a wooded drive through spot with few neighbors. We saw 10 deer one morning and hiked a trail with our 3 boys and 2 dogs. Electric and water hook-ups. Firewood available for cash only. Fire ring with grill and picnic table at our spot," reports a Cedars of Lebanon visitor.
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Anderson Road Campground provides convenient dump facilities that accommodate larger rigs. "I managed to get in here for memorial day weekend at the last minute. My site was pretty small and a back in site but that was no problem since I have a small camper. The site was full hookup and probably the easiest sewer connection I've had at any campground, very low and easy to drain and flush my tanks," notes a Nashville I-24 Campground visitor.
Site layout considerations: Pay attention to RV pad length specifications when booking. "Sites have picnic tables and fire rings. The store is open from 8-8 and sell a variety of items. There is a shuttle offered for a $15 fee that will take you downtown Nashville. It is also super close to the Grand Ole Opry. Perfect setting for exploring the area!" explains a reviewer at Nashville KOA.
Leveling requirements: Some sites require significant leveling equipment. "The area is clearly designed for RVs, not tents, which was fine since I had my campervan. I did notice, however, some of the sites had seriously sloping drives so lots of leveling would have been required. The area is heavily wooded," explains a visitor to Anderson Road Campground.
