McMinnville, Tennessee sits at an elevation of approximately 1,000 feet in the Eastern Highland Rim of the Cumberland Plateau. The area experiences mild winters and warm summers with an average annual rainfall of 55 inches, creating lush conditions for equestrian trails. Camping opportunities range from primitive sites to full-hookup facilities with horse accommodations, with most equestrian campgrounds concentrated within a 30-mile radius of the city.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: 30 minutes away at Fall Creek Falls State Park, visitors can access multiple waterfalls. "Many adventures offered from skeet shooting to hiking to waterfalls," notes Vanessa S., who visited in August. The park offers trails for various skill levels, with most waterfall viewpoints accessible via short hikes.
Lake activities: 45 minutes from McMinnville at Tims Ford State Park's Fairview Campground, campers enjoy water recreation. "Great campground on the water and spacious sites. Water access at your campsite to swim or kayak," Clinton N. reports. The lake offers boat rentals, fishing opportunities, and swimming areas from April through October.
Pickleball and swimming: Many campgrounds offer recreational facilities beyond horse trails. Manchester KOA (now Rvino - The Broken Banjo) provides "a great pool, kids areas, lots of cabins and tent spaces," according to Russ G. The campground also features pickleball courts for active visitors.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: When selecting an equestrian campground near McMinnville, Tennessee, consider site spacing. "The sites are decently spaced and site 27 was the easiest pull through we've ever had," according to MickandKarla W. at Rvino - The Broken Banjo (formerly Manchester KOA).
Natural surroundings: Many campers appreciate the wooded settings. "The spots are decently spaced apart with many trees," Laura C. says about Cedars of Lebanon State Park, noting its quiet atmosphere. Cedar forests create distinctive landscapes unique to this region of Tennessee.
Wildlife viewing: Horse-friendly campgrounds often offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. "We saw 10 deer one morning and hiked a trail with our 3 boys and 2 dogs," shares Ines M. about her stay at Cedars of Lebanon. Early morning and dusk provide the best wildlife viewing times.
What you should know
Train proximity: Some equestrian campgrounds are located near rail lines. "There's a train track nearby, but it didn't wake me at night," notes Danna D. about her stay at River Road RV Park & Horse Camp. Many reviews mention train noise, so light sleepers should come prepared.
Seasonal considerations: Visiting during different times of year affects camping experiences. "Arrived in the dark, do not recommend as there are not much lighting to see especially if the sites is tight with others," Richard F. advises about Fall Creek Falls State Park. Summer brings increased crowds at popular destinations.
Site selection: Reviews frequently mention the importance of choosing the right campsite. "Section 1 has very small, cramped together sites. We took a walk around section 2, and section 3. There was a lot more room, and seemed a little more private," Gregory G. observes about Cedars of Lebanon State Park. Research site maps before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Families appreciate water recreation during summer months. "The park itself has a scenic loop drive of the gorge, multiple waterfalls to visit, miles on end of hiking trails in which some cross rope bridges, awesome swimming holes, and even an olympic pool with diving boards and a snack shack for the kiddos," shares Brandie D. about Fall Creek Falls State Park.
Educational opportunities: Many campgrounds offer nature programs. "We love to camp at Fall Creek Falls State Park and think this would be a great park for novice campers due to the fact that the facilities are very nice. Modern bathhouses located in each camping area, swimming pool, golf course and restaurant make roughing it easier for those who need more comfort while camping," Sandra V. explains.
All-weather activities: Consider options for rainy days. "The Inn has a buffet style restaurant, all rooms overlook the lake, and there's a game room for the kids as well as a heated pool," notes Brandie D. about Fall Creek Falls State Park's lodging alternatives, which can serve as backup plans during inclement weather.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Horse camping facilities offer different levels of service. "I'm set up for 30 amp, so I had to use an adapter. Keep in mind, while making reservations, section 1 has very small, cramped together sites," warns Gregory G. about Cedars of Lebanon State Park. Always verify your specific hookup needs before booking.
Access considerations: Roads leading to and within equestrian campgrounds vary in quality. "Down a long and winding (and dusty) gravel road into the WMA is the Davis Pond camp site, a real gem with shady trees and a fishing pond," William S. describes about Davis Pond Campsite. Larger rigs may struggle on some access roads.
Utility placement: RVers appreciate well-designed utility connections. "The utilities are located smartly in the middle of the pad to include an extra sewer connection near the pad's front. Water pressure was okay at around 45 psi," notes MickandKarla W. about Rvino - The Broken Banjo, highlighting design features that enhance convenience.
