Seasonal campgrounds near Lebanon, Tennessee offer year-round access to Percy Priest Lake and Cumberland River recreation. Summer temperatures typically reach 90°F with high humidity while winter nights drop to freezing. Several campgrounds feature lakeside sites with water and electric hookups, though not all remain open during winter months.
What to do
Water recreation at Percy Priest Lake: At Cedar Creek Campground, campers enjoy direct lake access for fishing and paddling. "Stopped in just for a night while driving across many states. Sites closer to the waterfront are beautiful and more spread out than the inland sites," notes Jay B. The campground includes a swimming beach within walking distance.
Hiking through cedar forests: Explore the unique cedar glade ecosystem at Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground. "We hiked a trail with our 3 boys and 2 dogs. We saw 10 deer one morning," reports Ines M. The park features several trails through distinctive limestone terrain with rare plant species.
Boating opportunities: Poole Knobs Campground provides boat launch facilities and waterfront camping. "Great, spacious sites with concrete or wood picnic tables, fire pits and grills. Fairly level sites," states Taissa K. The campground offers primitive sites and electric hookups along the shoreline.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Campers appreciate the lake views at Seven Points Campground. "I've camped here several times and always try to get a spot on or across from the lake. The bathrooms are nice and camp sites are set up to be quite spacious/private with good tree coverage," says Wendy J. Sites feature level cement pads with water and electric.
Convenient Nashville access: Located approximately 30 minutes from downtown, Elm Hill RV Resort offers lakeside camping with urban conveniences. "We enjoyed our stay and took full advantage of the lake. We paddle boarded, swam, and kayaked. It's a little pricey, but if you want to experience Nashville, it's a pretty good deal given the proximity," explains Raul M.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses. "Bathrooms were super clean. Was able to get groceries and all I needed just 10 mins away," notes Jared about Cedars of Lebanon State Park. Most campgrounds provide flush toilets, with varying shower availability depending on the property.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Choose carefully at Cages Bend Campground. "We stayed in site 41. We were in town for an event and picked this site for the convenience to the exit. Turned out to be a great spot. It was quiet and clean. I think every site has some view of the lake, even if not directly," explains Mike N. Some sites have multi-level concrete pads with separate areas for picnic tables.
Winter camping options: While several campgrounds close seasonally, Cedars of Lebanon State Park remains open year-round. "Camped here in the fall. The spots are decently spaced apart with many trees. Located near a Dollar General for basic needs," reports Laura C.
Water access variations: Not all waterfront sites provide direct water entry. "That side of the park has a pretty big cliff behind it so no water access from the site," notes Beth H. about Safe Harbor RV Resort. Research specific site locations if swimming access is important.
Tips for camping with families
Seasonal activities: Plan for Halloween events at Cedars of Lebanon State Park. "Their halloween weekend is a great time of fun for the kids!" says Justin L. Many campgrounds offer weekend programming during summer months.
Playground options: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "Adjacent boat ramp. Fishing platform. Well kept. Playground with adjacent shelter," describes Michael K. at Cages Bend Campground. These areas provide recreation space separate from campsites.
Beach swimming access: For safer swimming with children, choose campgrounds with dedicated beach areas. At Cedar Creek, "Right across the lawn was a beach for swimming, clean bathrooms, and a sandy court for volleyball etc.," shares Jeni N. These swimming areas typically lack lifeguards but offer gradual entry points.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Prepare with leveling equipment at several area campgrounds. "Bring leveling blocks. Friendly folks, but the entire campground is kinda hilly. You can get level in the pull through, but just if you park so-so," advises Candy H. about Nashville East-Lebanon KOA.
Dump station limitations: Consider tank capacity limits when selecting non-sewer sites. "The dump station was clean but short and tight. I have a 25' camper and fit ok, but speaking to another camper with a large 5th wheel, he couldn't use it," warns Mike N. about Cages Bend.
Site length accuracy: Verify site dimensions when booking. "Be very cautious of the site lengths. Some are extremely short and I'd say the measurements are nearly exact. Since our site backed up to a drop off, there was a small fence so no way to 'hang over' the pad a little for extra room," reports Beth H.
