187 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Cumberland Mountain State Park stands as a centerpiece for camping near Crab Orchard, Tennessee, with a range of accommodation options including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins. The area features several established campgrounds within a 30-mile radius, including Crossville I-40 KOA, Bean Pot Campground, and Deer Run RV Resort. Most facilities provide water and electric hookups for RVs, while tent campers can find designated sites at virtually all campgrounds in the region. Cumberland Mountain State Park particularly stands out with 145 tent and RV sites with hookups in a forested setting.
Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout the Cumberland Plateau. Frozen Head State Park operates seasonally from March 15 to November 1, while most other campgrounds in the area remain open year-round. "Nice spacing with pads not level and 30-50 amp service and there are accessible sites," noted one visitor about Cumberland Mountain State Park. Road access is generally good with most campgrounds accommodating large RVs, though some areas require careful navigation on mountain roads. The region experiences four distinct seasons with moderate summers and occasionally cold winters that can affect camping comfort. Most established campgrounds offer amenities including showers, restrooms, and trash disposal, while some like Rhea Springs Recreation Area provide more primitive experiences.
Campers consistently highlight the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of the Cumberland Plateau region. The mountainous terrain creates scenic backdrops for camping experiences, with many sites offering views of nearby lakes or forested areas. A visitor commented that Cumberland Mountain State Park has "a beautiful location with wonderful mature trees." Water recreation stands as a significant attraction, with several campgrounds providing lake access for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Cumberland Mountain State Park features a lake with boat rentals, hiking trails, and a swimming pool. While sites near Crossville tend to offer more amenities and services, those seeking quieter experiences may prefer campgrounds farther from Interstate 40. Family-friendly amenities receive frequent mention in reviews, with clean bathhouses and well-maintained grounds as common highlights.
"Cumberland Mountain has a total of 145 campsites, spread across 5 loops, plus a backcountry site on an 8 mile backpacking trail."
"Great spacious site with beautiful scenery all around! There’s a lake and walking trails. Descent bathrooms. Water nearby and they sell firewood."
"There is a road close by but not a major freeway. It’s one of the quieter KOA’s I have stayed at. Pool is small but very clean. The store is well stocked and you can get hand dipped ice cream."
"It does sit right next to Highway 70 into Crossville and can be noisy but it didn’t bother us. Each bathroom is a private toilet and shower, very clean, nicely tiled and plenty of hot water."
"Fall creek falls is one of the best recreational areas in Tennessee. The park is very large and has so much to do. The falls are amazing, and it’s a moderate hike down to the base."
"Tons to do at one of Tennessee’s top state parks."
"the staff was super friendly. we ran out of paper towel, (which they don’t sell at the camp store), but they were kind enough to sell us one of there own personal rolls. had a cute little area for walking"
from $30 - $45 / night
Check Availability"Plenty of camp spots as well as the ability to park/camp right next to the water. (There’s no Water or Electric hookups) Also, not a lot of places selling firewood nearby."
"It's cash only $10 TN residents $22 outside TN"
from $10 - $22 / night
Check Availability"They have a hand built fireplace under a large overhang near the office. Great space for grilling or hanging out. Surround sound speakers play music for your enjoyment on the patio."
"Office people were friendly, they took us to our site (wish they all did instead of wandering around) it was easy in and easy out. Place was well marked off the highway and close to 40E."
from $55 / night
Check Availability"Would have liked to have had a lake side site or a larger level site. Owners were friendly as well as the guests. I believe they had some full-time living there too. I would go back."
"We contacted Spring Lake an hour before arrival and they were super helpful, providing a level overnight pull-through site reservation."
"We were next to the lake and enjoyed the view. There was a close bath house, but they still had it closed for winter so it was a little drive to the other side of the lake to the other one."
"The campground is down a very long road then once you register it’s another long drive back to the sites, which is nothing but trees. Sites are roomy. Gravel roads."
"Site 1 is open so a small pull behind can fit in parking area. Tents only on sites. Lots of shade. Toilet is vaulted, no water. Easy access to Obed River and trails."
"Bearproof trashcans are located throughout the campground. A section of the Cumberland Trail begins at the campground. The Emory River runs right alongside the campground with easy access."
from $15 / night
Check Availability"Tennessee State Parks are typically well kept and scenic."
"We chose Davy Crockery’s because of its proximity to the interstate. We spent 3 nights. We arrived after dark so the office was closed, but check in is online so it didn’t matter."
from $54 - $60 / night
Check Availability
ScoutThey have a pool, a lake with boat ramp and dock, and picnic tables at all spots. There are a few rows of permanent spots but didn't seem ran down. The office workers were nice and easy to communicate with.
GuideWe had a decent tent camping experience here. They have all the amenities. The showers were great, but I saw a rat in the pool. The tent camping was a bit creepy, with very dim lights, and the picnic tables were quite dirty.
ScoutCabins and Campgrounds are very clean
ScoutThey are dishonest and it is not a safe place for children. I have attached a picture of the caboose of their“train”(my son is in the background) with crowbars, trash, debris, etc. that they were allowing children to ride in. I witnessed open slices of cheese sitting on the counter in the heat for the entire day, employees handing people this cheese with their bare hands without washing them. The playground equipment was half painted and falling over. The paint cans as well as cans of wasp spray were underneath where children play for any child to access. Over half of the amenities promised were either closed, hazardous, or not available. Only excuses from the owner. No accountability and no professionalism at all. Stay far away. There many other places that are fun and safe for your children.
ScoutLovely 5 site park on the family farm. 30/50 amp water and sewer. Exrtremly quite park
Enjoyed our stay. Debbie and Ernie were wonderful to work with. Had a cloudy night so didnt get to see sunset. But heard they are marvelous.
TravelerWe had an awesome stay! Our family used a mix of a cabin and a tent, which worked out perfectly—it gave us a great option to get some AC while still letting the kids get the real tent-camping experience. We absolutely loved the French toast, and the bathroom and shower facilities were convenient. We really enjoyed our time and all the amenities. Thanks for a great stay!
TravelerAmazing view, right on the lake. Quiet and pleasant, with great people supporting the park. Will come back again soon!
GuideIf you are looking for the perfect escape, this place is an absolute hidden gem! The entire property is beautifully landscaped, and you instantly feel completely tucked away from the rest of the world. It is directly across from the entrance of Cummins Falls State Park! Site 12 is THE BEST spot! The last photo shows a better view of the campground layout.
Here is what made it a 5-star stay for me:
The bathrooms and showers were exceptionally clean and well-maintained.
The grounds are immaculate and peaceful to walk through.
A general store with a little deli. Super convenient for grabbing a quick, delicious bite, souvenirs, and snacks
Everyone working here was incredibly kind, welcoming, and helpful.
It is rare to find a spot that feels this peaceful and secluded while still being so well taken care of. 10/10 recommend!
I had no issues with cell service: T-mobile There is wifi, but it is spotty and not too strong.
ScoutWe recently stayed at Appalachian Ridge RV Park and were very impressed with the property. The park is well maintained and offers a great mix of premium concrete pads as well as standard gravel sites. The fire pits are substantial and perfect for relaxing evenings outdoors, and each site includes a nice picnic table.
The park is very dog-friendly, with a dedicated dog area that our pups enjoyed. The bathhouse and laundry facilities were clean, modern, and well cared for. One of the things we appreciated most was how quiet and peaceful the park was during our stay.
If you’re looking for a clean, comfortable, and dog-friendly RV park with quality amenities, Appalachian Ridge RV Park is definitely worth considering. We would happily stay here again.
Camping near Crab Orchard, Tennessee provides access to the diverse terrain of the Cumberland Plateau, which rises 1,000 to 2,000 feet above the surrounding landscape. The region's karst topography creates unique underground drainage systems and features numerous caves, sinkholes, and rocky outcroppings that influence camping conditions. Sites throughout the area sit at elevations between 1,500-2,000 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowlands.
Waterfall exploration: 4 miles of trails lead to multiple cascades at Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground. "Many adventures offered from skeet shooting to hiking to waterfalls," mentions Vanessa S. in her review. The park features Tennessee's highest free-falling waterfall at 256 feet.
Bouldering access: Short walk from campsite at Rock Creek Campground. "The Obed area is very inviting for fishing, hiking, and rock climbing. There are trails that start right from the campground," notes Katrin M. The Obed boulder field contains hundreds of climbing problems ranging from V0 to V10 in difficulty.
Dark sky viewing: No light pollution for astronomy enthusiasts. "This is a dark sky park, a neat thing to experience," writes Larry about Rock Creek. The campground sits within the designated Dark Sky Viewing Area where night sky programs are held monthly during summer.
Kayaking and fishing: Direct access to water recreation. "Easy water access. Cumberland trail access. Good 14+ mile hike to great swimming at Devil's Breakfast Table," says Jay B. about Rock Creek. Paddle craft can access class I-IV rapids depending on water levels and paddler experience.
Clean facilities: Modern bathhouses at Frozen Head State Park Campground. "Bathhouse is beautiful with cedar stalls. Lots to do with the hiking. Waterfalls were beautiful and everyone we talked to was super helpful and nice," reports Brittni F. Bathhouses are cleaned twice daily during peak season.
Wildlife encounters: Regular deer sightings in camping areas. "My daughter (9 yrs) brought her bike and was able to ride all around the camp site & have a blast. Being a Ultra Runner fan girl I of course had to take a picture of the infamous Barkley Marathon yellow gate," shares Liz A. about her stay at Frozen Head. The park hosts the challenging Barkley Marathons ultra-distance race each spring.
Private accommodations: Spacious pull-through sites available at Bean Pot Campground. "Really enjoyed my time at the bean pot. Check in was easy, and the campsites were all pull through. Comes with picnic tables and a fire ring," notes Journey in their review. Sites average 60-70 feet in length with 30-foot spacing between neighbors.
Aquatic recreation: Pool and lake access at multiple locations. "Great spacious site with beautiful scenery all around! There's a lake and walking trails. Descent bathrooms. Water nearby and they sell firewood," writes Alicia F. about Cumberland Mountain State Park. Swimming areas typically open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Seasonal closures: Check operating schedules before planning trips. "While this campground is beautiful, the gate is still closed for the season. Website says it will open mid-April, so should be available soon!" cautions Drew S. about Rhea Springs Recreation Area. Many smaller campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from April through October.
Uneven terrain: Bring leveling blocks for camper setup. "Check to make sure they are open. Showed up on Easter weekend and this place was closed. So after 11/2 hr drive, we ended up camping up on the hill above the boat ramp," shares Ky N. about Rhea Springs. The Cumberland Plateau's rolling terrain means many sites require 2-4 inches of leveling adjustment.
Limited connectivity: Spotty cell service throughout the region. "No wifi and no cell phone reception," notes Mary D. about Frozen Head State Park. Most campgrounds are located in valleys or hollows where signal is unreliable, with Verizon offering best coverage.
Water access rules: Restrictions on watercraft at some locations. "When I requested a boat with a motor I was told I couldn't unless I was fishing. When asked why only was told that's a rule we go by," explains Matt A. about his experience at Cumberland Mountain State Park. Each water body has specific regulations posted at access points.
Playground facilities: Multiple play areas for children at Crossville I-40 KOA. "We had a blast at this KOA! The sites were clean and beautiful. Big bathhouse rooms. I really appreciated the family management. We stayed during Halloween and they organized sites for trick or treating and had hot chocolate and candy in the office," shares Theresa W. The campground hosts scheduled children's activities every weekend during summer.
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Short trails suitable for first experiences. "A great place 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," explains Sandra V. about Fall Creek Falls. Backpacking routes range from 1-5 miles to designated sites.
Animal encounters: Farm animals visible from some campgrounds. "Super simple, not many trees or landscaping. No shade so super hot in summer. The farm next door had donkeys that visited," mentions Katie C. about her stay at Crossville I-40 KOA. Several nearby farms offer scheduled tours where children can interact with livestock.
Swimming options: Multiple water facilities available for hot days. "This camp ground is perfect for weekend camping! It has a pen that hold 2 mules and the view of the mountains is amazing!" reports Riley from Crossville I-40 KOA. Swimming areas include both natural features and constructed pools with varying depths.
Site selection: Check spacing carefully when booking. "Clean Park Friendly Staff. Very nice campground! The lawn was cut and well kept and the staff was very friendly and courteous!" notes Brad S. about Crossville I-40 KOA. Sites on the eastern edges of most campgrounds receive morning shade while western sites receive afternoon shade.
Level challenges: Some sites require significant adjustment. "A Beautiful campsite, a ton of activities for the grandkids, lots of amenities. We had a gravel back in site, it did have a little slope front to back but was zero issue getting level," shares Todd L. about Crossville I-40 KOA. Bring extra leveling blocks as many sites have 3-5% grades.
Wi-Fi availability: Service quality varies throughout region. "WiFi and Cable TV were outstanding. Strongly recommend," reports Rich G. about Crossville I-40 KOA. Most campgrounds offer Wi-Fi near their main offices with signal strength diminishing at distant sites.
Full hookup locations: Limited availability at certain times. "The office is beautiful. The kids playground is great. The bathhouse is amazing!! I've stayed at many campgrounds and I think this is the cleanest bathhouse I've ever seen," writes Sara E. about Paradise on the Mountain RV Park. Reserve full hookup sites 2-3 months in advance during peak season (May-September).
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Crab Orchard, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Crab Orchard, TN offers a wide range of camping options, with 187 campgrounds and RV parks near Crab Orchard, TN and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Crab Orchard, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Crab Orchard, TN is Cumberland Mountain State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 36 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Crab Orchard, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Crab Orchard, TN.
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