Tent camping opportunities around Hendersonville, Tennessee span beyond the main lakes, with several less-developed areas offering primitive experiences. The region sits at approximately 450 feet above sea level with summer temperatures regularly reaching the 90s. Fall camping from September to November provides more moderate temperatures and significantly fewer insects than peak summer months.
What to do
Hiking at Long Hunter State Park: The park features woodland trails with minimal elevation changes, perfect for beginners testing their skills. A camper noted, "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."
Fishing opportunities: Several lakes provide fishing access, with both shoreline and boat options available. At J. Percy Priest Lake, one visitor mentioned they "Boated in and camped on an island," though they noted the "only drawback was the other campers on the island blaring music until 3 AM."
Wildlife observation: The natural areas around Hendersonville support diverse wildlife populations. At Lone Branch, a camper shared, "We saw so many Whitetail Deer, it was amazing. They would just come into the campground, feed and walk around. They didn't seem too worried or scared of us or others around. We also saw some wild turkey on our way in to the campground."
What campers like
Riverfront camping: The Cumberland River offers peaceful camping spots with boat traffic providing occasional interest. At Whooping Crane Farm, a reviewer commented, "The site is gated and right on the river, so the only traffic you have to worry about are the barges that are passing by on the river, or any boaters that are out."
Proximity to Nashville: Several tent camping areas provide nature experiences while remaining accessible to urban amenities. One camper at Bells Bend Park reported, "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."
Lake access: Waterfront sites on various lakes remain popular despite seasonal conditions. At Smith Springs, a visitor remarked, "The water area here is slightly different than some of the other areas I visited on the lake. Looks like it'd be great for just jumping in and lots of shallows for kids."
What you should know
Insect preparation: Ticks can be extremely numerous during warm months. One visitor to Long Hunter State Park Campground warned, "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. They seemed to be worst around the fire pit."
Facilities vary significantly: Some areas offer minimal facilities requiring complete self-sufficiency. At Camp Nashville Highland Rim, campers can find showers and toilets, while most primitive sites have no facilities beyond fire rings.
Reservation requirements: Most of the best tent camping near Hendersonville, Tennessee requires advance planning, especially during warmer months. Bells Bend Park campsites cost "$10.00 a night per site for Davidson Co. residents, $11.00 a night per site for out of County residents."
Tips for camping with families
Shorter hikes for younger groups: Consider distance capabilities when planning tent camping trips with children. As one troop leader at Long Hunter State Park noted, "Even though 6 miles is quite the hike for a young Girl Scout Troop just to reach our Campsite it was beyond worth it!"
Swimming areas for children: Some locations offer safer swimming spots for families. Old Hickory Beach Day Use Area charges "$5 for beach access and no dogs in the beach area," according to a visitor.
Educational opportunities: Several parks near Hendersonville offer nature programs that can enhance a family camping trip. At Bells Bend Park, a visitor mentioned, "The park offers a lot of programs to base your camping around. The trails are through farmland and bike friendly."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping areas around Hendersonville have minimal or no RV facilities. Laguardo offers sanitary dump stations but limited other amenities for recreational vehicles.
Alternative accommodations: For those wanting nature without tent setup, glamping options exist. One visitor to Whooping Crane Farm described, "The canvas tent was decorated nicely, with some cool lanterns and a wood burning stove. There was a battery powered fan, that lasted most of the night. The bed was comfortable for glamping."
Seasonal considerations: RV sites in this region often have different seasonal availability than tent sites. During peak summer months, advanced reservations become essential as the limited RV spaces near Hendersonville fill quickly.
