Camping options near Belvidere, Tennessee extend beyond the main state parks to include primitive backcountry sites, unique island camping, and smaller private retreats. The region sits within the Cumberland Plateau at elevations between 900-1,500 feet, creating varied terrain for both novice and experienced campers. Winter temperatures average 30-45°F while summer months can reach 85-90°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Waterfalls exploration: 7-mile round trip hike to Walls of Jericho offers remarkable cave and waterfall views. "The trail itself is amazing! It is pretty strenuous & has uneven ground in some areas, but it's nothing that a moderately experienced hiker can't handle. Every step of the trail is worth the destination because the waterfall is glorious & so is the cave which houses the spring," shares a visitor at Walls of Jericho - Clark Cemetery Backcountry Campsite.
Rock climbing: Beginner to intermediate routes available at Foster Falls, with equipment rentals in nearby Monteagle. "Camping was easy and bathrooms were clean. Really beautiful scenery on somewhat strenuous hikes to waterfalls, some good sport climbing, and a few trails that will take you really high up so you can look down at the beautiful green canopy," notes a climber at Foster Falls Campground.
Archaeological exploration: 1.4-mile loop trail through ancient Native American ceremonial grounds at Old Stone Fort State Park. "The hiking trails are well maintained so hiking to the three waterfall's inside the park is a mild hike. All the park rangers we encountered were very friendly and helpful," explains a visitor. The site dates back over 2,000 years and features several stone wall remnants.
What campers like
Secluded primitive sites: Multi-day hiking options with fewer crowds and natural settings. "It's a bit of a lengthy walk to get to the campsite from the trailhead, but it's absolutely worth it. The campground is flat & has enough room for a couple tents. There are also good trees for hanging hammocks & clotheslines," explains a camper at Walls of Jericho.
Island camping experiences: Boat or kayak access only creates unique overnight stays on Tim's Ford Lake. "We visit here every summer, great paddling, few cliffs to jump off of, awesome old cemetery right beside campsite. All in all. Great place to unwind," notes a regular visitor to Evans Loop Backcountry Site. These sites offer complete isolation with minimal facilities.
Technical mountain trails: Mixed terrain with rock features and elevation changes attracts experienced hikers. "The hiking is moderate to extreme up and down some interesting rock formations. The mountain bikers and bikers seem to enjoy themselves too, flying down the closed roadway or the steep roadways and challenging themselves on the rocky terrain," reports a regular at Monte Sano State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: May-June optimal for waterfall viewing, while late summer sees reduced flow. "In September the water level was low and the waterfalls were not flowing. But there is a spring that runs out of a cave on a cliff to the left of the amphitheater, so water is not an issue," advises a September visitor at Walls of Jericho.
Limited primitive facilities: Pack-in/pack-out required at backcountry sites with minimal services. "This is backcountry camping so plan appropriately (no bathroom, pack it in - pack it out). We found no cell phone service with Verizon at this site. Water can be sourced from Turkey Creek if it is flowing, but should be treated/filtered."
Early reservations required: 3-6 months advance booking for weekends at small private campgrounds. "This is an awesome campsite. Very clean and the staff are friendly and helpful. This was our very first camping trip and had a great time," notes a visitor at Caney Hollow Creek Retreat, which has only three total campsites available.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible waterfall trails: 1-2 mile options perfect for children at multiple parks. "Great campground on the water and spacious sites. Water access at your campsite to swim or kayak. Nice bathhouse, clean facilities. Will definitely be back!" shares a family at Fairview Campground.
Water-based recreation: Kayak rentals available at several locations for $15-25 per day. "Beautiful, clean, well-maintained campground along Tims Ford Lake. Most campsites are on the water with incredible views. The campsites are shady and nicely spaced. Boating, fishing and kayaking (kayak rental in the office) are among the many outdoor activities found at this State Park," notes a visitor.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature child-friendly facilities and open spaces. "There are cool little wooden play obstacles for the kids in the campground and a huge playground 1/2 mile away inside the park. The Japanese garden is very cool also," shares a family staying at Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Waterfront sites often lack sewer hookups at most area campgrounds. "We are in a 35' 5th Wheel. Most sites easy access, some sites maybe tight for bigger Rigs. Some sites have Full Hook-up, 50 amp. (Sewer not available on water sites.) This campground is family friendly," advises an experienced RVer.
Leveling challenges: Bring additional blocks for uneven terrain at older campgrounds. "Small park not far off I24, south of Murfreesboro, TN. The camping area is not huge but well kept. Pick your site wisely though I noticed some sites sitting in water," warns a visitor at Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park.
Left-side hookups: Several newer resorts have non-standard utility placement. "Small, new rv resort on Tim's Ford lake in Winchester, TN. Very clean. Very well-maintained. All sites are pull-in with full (50 amp) hook-ups on the left side. Sites are large, newly paved and are equipped with very new, clean picnic tables," notes an RVer about Twin Creeks RV Resort.
