Nashville's glamping scene extends well beyond the downtown area, with accommodations scattered across Percy Priest Lake's 14,000-acre reservoir and the surrounding cedar glades of Middle Tennessee. The region's limestone bedrock creates unique ecosystems where glamping sites often sit alongside natural sinkholes and cedar forests. Most luxury camping options remain operational year-round with overnight temperatures rarely dropping below 30°F even in January, though summer humidity regularly pushes the heat index above 95°F from June through August.
What to do
Enjoy water activities on Percy Priest Lake: Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort offers comprehensive water recreation with boat rentals and lake access. "The waterpark is amazing," notes Jared B., who appreciated the "clean paved spots facing the lake."
Explore historic sites: Montgomery Bell State Park Campground features significant historical landmarks within walking distance of glamping accommodations. "There is a beautiful waterfall and an adorable old church," reports Faith S., who enjoyed the park's historical connections.
Take advantage of shuttle services: While staying at Nashville North KOA, utilize their shuttle service to downtown Nashville. According to Brenda L., "We used their shuttle service into Nashville," making it convenient for visitors without vehicles.
Fish in stocked ponds: Four Corners RV Resort provides fishing opportunities just steps from your accommodation. One camper shared, "We were right next to one of the courtesy docks where our family members picked us up on their boat, enjoying the lake coves and scenery."
What campers like
Spacious luxury tent sites: At Whooping Crane Farm, guests appreciate the riverside privacy. "The camp spot is fantastic! Right on the Cumberland River, the spot is very secluded, and plenty of space for a group," writes Lori H., who enjoyed the property's exclusive setting.
Family-friendly facilities: Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground offers organized activities for children throughout the camping season. "Their halloween weekend is a great time of fun for the kids!" Justin L. explains, highlighting the park's family programming.
Clean, modern bathhouses: Nashville East-Lebanon KOA maintains exceptional bathroom facilities, which stand out to visitors. "Bathrooms were best we've seen at a KOA. Recently renovated and definitely a cut above," remarks Barkley K., who stayed in May.
Natural surroundings: Montgomery Bell State Park Campground preserves natural beauty amid comfortable accommodations. One visitor noted, "The state park is absolutely gorgeous. We chose to stay in the tent only camping sites. They are spread out far enough that you don't feel like you are in one another space."
What you should know
Seasonal insect considerations: Four Corners RV Resort visitors should prepare for bugs during certain seasons. "Highly recommend bringing bug spray for your RV because at night they are all over the door and walls," advises Stephanie R., who otherwise enjoyed the amenities.
Transportation costs: When staying at Nashville Shores, transportation to downtown can be expensive after hours. "Be careful when those surge prices hit after midnight you pay easily $80 to get back to the camp ground," warns Andrea.
Site leveling challenges: Nashville East-Lebanon KOA has terrain issues that affect some sites. "The site was nowhere near level side to side," notes Steve G., suggesting campers should bring leveling blocks.
Limited lake access: Despite waterfront locations, some properties restrict water entry. At Nashville Shores, "The lake is very pretty but it's just to look at unless you want to drop a fortune to rent a jet ski or boat there is no beach access unless you pay to enter the water park," explains Mary P.
Tips for camping with families
Book sites away from traffic: At Montgomery Bell State Park Campground, site selection affects the family experience. "If you don't want kiddos walking through your campsite to get to the playground, you may want to choose a higher number," suggests Stæven F.
Choose accommodations with organized activities: Cedars of Lebanon offers structured entertainment for children. According to Gillian C., "Beautiful park with tons to do. Campsites in area 1 were a little close together. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring, and charcoal grill."
Consider noise levels: When glamping with children near Nashville, ambient noise varies significantly between properties. "This campground was very convenient for those visiting the Nashville area, it's just off the highway and they offer shuttles for a fee to downtown and opryland," reports Dawn C. about Nashville Shores, noting it was "Fun, clean, quiet."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: At Nashville KOA Resort, certain sites offer more seclusion than others. "We decided to try a back-in spot (R12) along the wall that separates the KOA from the RV campground next door. Nice and quiet, adequate shade during the day, and right next to the dog park!" reports Jason F.
Water pressure considerations: Some Nashville-area glamping sites have utility issues to prepare for. According to Jason C., Nashville East-Lebanon KOA is "nice but pricey for low water pressure and okay camping."
Utility placement: Nashville KOA Resort has unique hookup configurations. "The utilities are more to the front of the site with two sewer connections," explains MickandKarla W., adding they "had decent water pressure."
