Tent camping near Tullahoma, Tennessee provides access to diverse terrain across the Highland Rim and Cumberland Plateau with elevations ranging from 1,070 to 1,800 feet. The region receives approximately 55 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forests and active waterfalls during spring months. Summer temperatures typically range from 65°F at night to 88°F during daytime, making late spring and early fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Waterfall swimming: Foster Falls Campground at Foster Falls Campground offers swimming opportunities beneath its namesake falls. "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. Beautiful spot any time of year but we like to go when it's warm enough to swim in the waterfall," notes Kelly M.
Rock climbing: Access sport routes located within walking distance of Foster Falls campsites. The area features over 200 established climbing routes ranging from 5.8 to 5.13 in difficulty. "Camping was easy and bathrooms were clean. Really beautiful scenery on somewhat strenuous hikes to waterfalls, some good sport climbing," according to one visitor.
Island exploration: Paddle to campsites on Tims Ford Lake's islands from Evans Loop Backcountry Sites. "Great time, one of the larger islands, great lake views. Only down side is the paddle to the island, not hard or difficult, the boat traffic and lack of respect for kayakers was concerning," reports Buddy G.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The spacious sites at Stone Door Campground offer substantial separation. "The campsites are secluded, but very close to the parking lot. There is an outhouse and drinking water close to the campsites. Each site has a fire ring and plenty of space," notes Aaron S.
Convenient water access: Lakeside camping at Turkey Creek Campground provides direct water entry points. "Great straight forward campsite, awesome lake access!" says Travis J., highlighting the convenience for paddlers who want to minimize carrying gear.
Large picnic tables: Foster Falls Campground features oversized tables that accommodate group meals. "The picnic tables are also very large and made it easy to prepare food and for 5 people to sit comfortably, even with our stove at one end, and the tables are on concrete slabs," explains Stephanie J.
What you should know
Seasonal crowding: Summer weekends draw large crowds to waterfall campsites. "Foster Falls Campground has 26 sites, most of which are very large and spacious. As is common in loop campgrounds, the sites in the center of the loop--especially sites 1-13--are very open, with little privacy between sites," reports Stephanie J.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience unexpected noise sources. "My biggest complaints about this site are the noise, and how much trash we saw. There is a farm nearby with a rooster that spent the better part of the day crowing, which can be distracting when you have a toddler you are trying to get to sleep, and got very repetitive for the adults as well. We could also hear 18 wheelers both nights."
Water availability: Alum Gap Campground requires planning for water. "On my hike there, I encountered a small creek, which served as a sufficient water source. Depending on recent rainfall, you might need to collect water back at the Greeter Falls area," writes Asher K.
Tips for camping with families
Short hikes with rewards: Look for campsites with quick access to attractions. "The Alum Gap campground in Savage Gulf State Natural Area was a perfect destination for a first-time backpacker (like me!). The trail is easy-moderate, mostly flat with only a few inclines," reports Brittany S.
Consider noise levels: Select sites away from high-traffic areas. "We were there on weeknights so there were very few other campers, but there was a lot of trash still evident from the weekend littered across most of the campsites," notes one camper about Foster Falls.
Start with Father Adamz Campground: This site offers a manageable backpacking introduction. "The hike in is pretty steep in parts and very rocky. Definitely a good workout! The hiking trails are well maintained and the scenery is great. The short hike down to the base of the waterfall is fairly steep and very rocky, but well worth the effort!" advises Jeff C.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping areas near Tullahoma have minimal RV facilities. Backcountry areas like Savage Falls Camping Area are tent-only. "You gotta be super fit to get to this place but once you do, it's AMAZING. I did notice bear scat on my hike in and that was a bit of a concern but once everyone settled in at night, it was great. There are NO facilities so be prepared for that," warns Scott G.
Consider primitive setups: RVs without hookup needs can use certain tent areas. "Our family camped here about 2 years ago as our first camping trip together. It was perfect. We love how much space and privacy we had and will be a regular camping trip for us," mentions Robbie M. about Stone Door Campground.
Island camping alternative: For RVers with boats, Tims Ford Lake offers unique options. "Great paddling, few cliffs to jump off of, awesome old cemetery right beside campsite. All in all. Great place to unwind," notes Buddy G. about the Devil's Step Island site.
