R
Robert V.
Scout
ScoutChester Frost Park
Great Camping Experience
Great camping experience and location. Bathhouses a bit outdated and semi-clean. Would stay here again, especially with a water front site.
Best Campgrounds near Palmer, TN
The Cumberland Plateau region surrounding Palmer, Tennessee provides access to several primitive and developed camping areas within South Cumberland State Park, including Savage Gulf State Park and Fall Creek Falls State Park. These mixed-use campgrounds accommodate a range of camping styles from backcountry tent sites to cabins and RV hookups. The terrain features dramatic gorges, waterfalls, and elevated plateaus with multiple trailheads connecting campgrounds to natural features. Savage Gulf offers multiple backcountry camping areas including Stone Door, Savage Falls, and Alum Gap, while more developed facilities can be found at nearby Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground.
Most campgrounds in the South Cumberland area require advance reservations through the Tennessee State Parks website, particularly during peak seasons. "Definitely plan ahead and make a reservation before your visit, as this campground tends to be in high demand," noted one visitor about Savage Station campground. Trail access varies significantly between camping areas, with some sites requiring short hikes while others involve more challenging terrain. The region experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters, though higher elevations can see occasional snow and ice. Many campgrounds close certain amenities during winter months, particularly shower facilities. Cell service is generally available on the plateau tops but becomes spotty or nonexistent within the deeper gorges and gulf areas.
Campers consistently praise the waterfalls and swimming holes as highlights of the Palmer area camping experience. Several primitive campsites at Alum Gap and Stone Door provide direct access to rim trails with expansive canyon views, particularly appealing during fall foliage season and winter when leaf cover is reduced. A recent review mentioned that "Perched on the rim and a nexus of trails that will take you to everything you want to see in this part of the park" makes Alum Gap an ideal base camp for exploration. Campgrounds like Savage Falls offer an excellent introduction to backcountry camping with sites spaced for privacy while remaining accessible. Most developed campgrounds provide basic amenities including potable water and vault toilets, while the more remote sites require visitors to pack in supplies and practice leave-no-trace principles.
Best Camping Sites Near Palmer, Tennessee (165)
1. Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground
145 ReviewsSpencer, TN24 milesWebsite+1 (423) 881-5298$8 - $32 / night
"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."
2. Foster Falls Campground — South Cumberland State Park
32 ReviewsTracy City, TN14 milesWebsite+1 (931) 924-2980$18 - $21 / night
"Foster Falls is located at one end of the Fiery Gizzard Trail, one of the most beautiful trails in Tennessee, possibly the country!"
"We used two cars and parked one at our campsite here, and brought one to the beginning of the Fiery Gizzard Trail."
3. Savage Falls Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
8 ReviewsPalmer, TN6 miles"Savage Gulf Natural Area is massive with several miles between entrance points that lead to stunning overlooks of the gorges and gulfs, and several miles worth of trails within each location."
"camp ground at Alum Gap is Nice, Water a short walk from camp site if you are backpacking. My husband and I are very fond of this particular camp site."
4. Alum Gap Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
8 ReviewsBeersheba Springs, TN8 milesWebsite+1 (615) 532-0001$8 - $12 / night
"Alum Gap campground, situated in the backcountry of Tennessee, is not only a hidden gem but also a perfect choice for those new to backpacking."
"The waterfall here can be close to 25-30 ft. If you're adventurous it's definitely worth a quick plunge"
5. Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground
187 ReviewsTrenton, GA38 milesWebsite+1 (706) 657-4050$10 - $270 / night
"Campground Review:East Rim Campground Pro’s: 1-Handicap Accessible, there is a cabin which is also HDA. 2- If your visiting for a get together your right next to the day use area and there is a picnic"
"We stopped in for a few hours on our drive home from Tennessee. We drove through the campgrounds to scout out our site."
6. Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground
44 ReviewsLookout Mountain, TN23 miles+1 (423) 821-9403$55 - $56 / night
"This place is Close to everything you’ll want to do in Chattanooga Tennessee"
"My family and I went a few years ago on a trip to Tennessee. It was a decent place to stay. We RV camped on this trip, but the campground had tent sites too."
7. Stone Door Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
6 ReviewsBeersheba Springs, TN7 milesWebsite+1 (931) 924-2980$8 - $35 / night
"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. "
"Not many people around quite, secluded and very peaceful. Tent camping only with reservations. Lots of hiking near by and great places to explore."
8. Foster Falls Campground
12 ReviewsSequatchie, TN14 milesWebsite+1 (423) 942-5759$21 / night
"Foster Falls Climbers Loop Trail is right at the entrance of the campground, definitely recommend hiking this trail. You’ll hike all around the falls getting beautiful views from the top and bottom."
"Bathhouse is a short walk from all the sites. Rangers there were helpful. Leaves are everywhere and we did see a few snakes but nothing we don’t expect from the great outdoors."
9. Hammock Sway
11 ReviewsBeersheba Springs, TN14 milesWebsite+1 (931) 259-8968$25 - $89 / night
"This is a primitive camping experience in the pristine woods of Van Buren County, TN about 20 miles(30 minutes) outside of McMinnville, Tennessee. The campground borders the beautiful Rocky River."
"Chris is very helpful, friendly and willing to show you around upon arriving. You will also be introduced to all his great dogs. After that you won’t be bothered unless you need help."
10. Greeter Falls Campground
7 ReviewsBeersheba Springs, TN9 milesWebsite+1 (931) 800-4376$20 - $70 / night
"Porta potties close by lit with fairy lights at night. I was impressed as they were clean. Self check in. I saw a deer on the way to the bathroom."
"It was a 2 hour drive from where we got married. Got here close to midnight and they had a yurt ready for us. They where more than happy to accommodate us!"
Recent Camping Photos near Palmer, TN
436 Photos of 165 Palmer Campgrounds
Rachel K.
Savage Gulf South - Backcountry Camp
Asher K.
Savage Station
Jason J.
Savage Falls Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
The Dyrt
Glamping Dome at Getaway on Ranger Creek
Justin B.
Stone Door Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
Robert F.
Camp Chet
Jason J.
Alum Gap Campground — Savage Gulf State Park
Ashley D.
The Falls at Sewanee Creek
Leah J.
Foster Falls Campground
Jeremy H.
Hammock Sway
Aidan G.
Father Adamz Campground — South Cumberland State Park
Recent Reviews near Palmer, TN
1156 Reviews of 165 Palmer Campgrounds
Kelsey P.
TravelerHarrison Bay State Park Campground
Beautiful but sites are VERY uneven
I was greatly deceived by the photos and descriptions online. We had site 40 and it was much much shorter than online said and the incline was insane. I would say 90% of the sites in loops B, C, and D should not be sites. Loop A has the most level sites with a lot not having shade though. Site 15 seemed to be the best in the whole park. Leveling our popup was miserable. Most campers we saw come in seemed to be the same as us. First time being there and not realizing the sites are significantly shorter than listed and shown in photos and extremely unlevel. I couldn’t even imagine a tent camper in most sites comfortably with how much of an incline and then slope you’re on. It’s a straight up hill and then it’s tilted to the side too. Sites are also extremely close together which is fine if you plan to be out or on the water a lot but it’s very cramped.
Bathrooms in loop B were the largest and cleaned daily. Bathrooms were great with the exception of the doors being super small but not an issue really. I’m 6ft and it was just funny seeing over everything.
Lake is BEAUTIFUL. So many areas to swim and great trails. Good place for pets.
One host in the entire park and we were lucky to be next to them and listen to their dog park and cry all day and night as they never let him in. Their site is right there when you go in and just trashed with all kinds of stuff. Feels more like a trailer park than state park. Never once saw the hosts and the camp store/office was closed every day we were there (we were there for a week Sunday to Sunday) Our site had quite a bit of trash when we got there. I’m shocked how the bathrooms were kept so clean but sites were not
They have check in listed at 4pm but every day new campers were there far before 4 which isn’t a problem but helps to know you can really get there anytime.
Overall the area is amazing with so much to do for everyone. Fishing, hiking, swimming, plenty to do all around. I would come back only for loop A and site 15. Maybe some others in loop A. Unless you have a camper van that you are fine being tilted, I would avoid all loops besides A. We saw a lot of people get there and then leave when they couldn’t park or level their site and there weren’t other options any better for them
Cell service was great. T-Mobile hotspot was amazing for me to work remote
- Patricia “Ollie” F.Scout
Peakland RV Park
Very quiet! Close to boat access
I have been staying here for a couple weeks now and it has been very quiet. I have full service hook up everything I need for my RV. There’s also really amazing barbecue place right across the street and some nightlife as well.. interstate 40 is about a 35 minute drive. The owner here is really nice and accommodating.
- aadrienne T.
GuideOld Stone Fort State Archaeological Park
Nice park, lots of trees
Decent space between camps. Well priced. Stayed overnight on our way from Missouri to Atlanta. Good place to take a walk before hitting the road again. It's beautiful and wooded. Quiet and lots of morning birds. No gate or code to enter. Clean bathrooms & showers.
- FFrank J.Scout
Prentice Cooper State Forest Camp
Good free rest stop
Nothing crazy, scenic but tricky drive in here. Use the coordinates to find it, Apple Maps will send you to the other side and add a 30/40 min drive. The camping area had 1 shared restroom/porta potty type deal. The area is pretty flat ground with about 10 good spots to tent/small vehicle camp. Came on a Tuesday evening to about half the site being used. There’s signs to get here once you get close.
- Arnold P.Scout
Howland's Hidout
Howland's Hideout is a hidden gem!
We camped at Howland's Hideout for two nights in our 5th wheel (water & electric hook-up plus they have a sewer dump).
So conveniently located (approx. 3 miles) from Fall Creek Falls State Park but much less noise and more relaxed.
The hosts (Kurt and Maria) went above and beyond to be sure we had everything we needed and so enjoyed getting to know them.
Their two dogs (Star & Sassy) were very friendly and our dog loved playing with them.
If you are looking for a relaxing spot to camp with great hosts, you should definitely give this place a try. We can't wait to go back.
Arnold & Debra Puckett
- GGage F.Scout
Camp Towhee near Fall Creek Falls
Great Experience
Camp Towhee is the perfect peaceful getaway near Fall Creek Falls! Spacious RV sites with full hookups, plenty of room to relax, and a quiet, well-maintained property make it ideal for a stress-free stay. Highly recommend!
- SSterling G.Guide
Little Farmie Farm Dispersed
Private little area
Small gravel parking area off of what appears to be a drive. Nice open field to possibly setup in. Didn’t drive truck on grass. It was cut and well maintained. Large burn pile and old rv on site. Good place to over night. I visited during the day and was not disturbed.
- SSterling G.Guide
Tennessee Wall Camp
Nice little site for tent camping
You take a sometimes single lane road to get there. Very windy at points. There is a parking lot to hold 4+ cars. You walk 20’ on trail to first campsite. Nice wooded area with a trail to the water. There are 5 sites with fire pits. There is one private site past the marked site if you keep going you will find a large level gravel lot with a single fire pit that would be much better for van or truck camping. Past this point it turns back into residential.
Guide to Palmer
The Cumberland Plateau area near Palmer, Tennessee sits between 1,800-1,900 feet elevation, creating a distinctively cooler microclimate that averages 5-10 degrees below surrounding lowlands. Campers often encounter early morning fog that lifts by mid-morning in the numerous gorges and valleys. The region's plateau formations create natural wind tunnels that provide welcome relief during summer's high humidity.
What to do
Waterfall swimming: 2-mile hike from Savage Falls Campground to access multiple swimming locations in the gorge. "There is a big parking area but it can fill up fast with those that are day hiking to see the falls. It's not a tough hike to the campsite or to the falls themselves," notes Brittni F., who recommends allowing 4-5 hours for swimming and exploration.
Spelunking tours: $15.95 per adult at Raccoon Mountain Caverns where guided tours run hourly from 9am-5pm. "Crystal Cave was right on site and enjoyed the guided tour. (Advanced reservations are required.) We also loved the guided tour just down the road at Ruby Falls," shares Jen O., who visited with family in 2021.
Multi-day hiking: 10+ miles of connected trails from Stone Door to Greeter Falls via Big Creek Gulf Trail. "We hiked down 'Fiery Gizzard' and it was an easy ten-mile hike to our site, perfect for beginners and kids. I especially love this place in the Fall!" recommends Phoebe A., who completed the trek with family members of varying abilities.
What campers like
Private camping spots: Alum Gap Campground offers backcountry sites with spacing that provides natural sound barriers. "Most of the sites are large, with lots of space to set up camp and hang out, and they're far enough apart to maintain a decent amount of privacy," notes Brittany S., who found it ideal for first-time backpackers.
Natural swimming holes: Multiple locations throughout South Cumberland State Park provide cooling relief during summer months. "You can hear the river at night when all is quiet and the campground was very spacious," writes CASEY W. about the Father Adamz campground area, adding that "it was breathtaking" after the half-mile hike in.
Year-round accessibility: Fall Creek Falls State Park maintains facilities throughout winter when many other locations close amenities. "What a great State Park. Hiking. Bike Riding. Golfing. Can go on and on. Campground A & B are great for families with kids. C&D are more quiet," explains Richard F., who noted the upgraded dump station with six dumps all on asphalt.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Signal is generally strongest on plateau tops but becomes increasingly unreliable in gorges. "I have Verizon and had 3 bars and LTE and the data signal was strong for me. Was able to stream, FaceTime, pretty much whatever I wanted," reported Thomas H. about Greeter Falls Campground, though coverage varies significantly by location.
Water availability challenges: Many backcountry sites require filtration or carrying water in. "There is a small stream nearby (just make sure you have a water purifier!)" advises Brittany S. about the Alum Gap area, while another camper noted that "depending on recent rainfall, you might need to collect water back at the Greeter Falls area."
Reservation requirements: Most developed sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Book ahead of time as campsites fill up quickly on weekends!" recommends Aaron S. about Stone Door Campground, while another camper mentioned making reservations 148 days in advance for Fall Creek Falls.
Tips for camping with families
Choose appropriate campground loops: Different areas cater to various family needs with significantly different noise levels and amenities. "Campground A & B are great for families with kids. C&D are more quiet. Pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out," advises a Fall Creek Falls visitor.
Beginner backpacking routes: Stone Door Campground provides an ideal introduction for families new to backcountry camping. "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," shares Robbie M., noting its accessibility while offering a backcountry experience for young children.
Swimming alternatives: During drier seasons when waterfalls may not be flowing, some campgrounds provide additional options. "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," explains Brandie D. at Fall Creek Falls.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites in the region require additional equipment for proper setup. "Our rv sites were gravel, required some leveling, had FHUs. 50/30/20 amp service, water and sewer of course," notes Thomas H. about his stay at Greeter Falls Campground.
Size restrictions: Larger rigs face limitations at many campgrounds. "We have a 40' class A and flat tow a Jeep. We stayed in site 203 for 3 nights. While we really enjoyed the campground, this site was not ideal for an RV our size. We weren't able to put our awnings out or comfortably sit outside," shares Jen O. about Raccoon Mountain, suggesting site 226 might work better for larger rigs.
Arrival timing: Several campgrounds have challenging arrival logistics after dark. "Arrived in the dark, do not recommend as there are not much lighting to see especially if the site is tight with others," warns Richard F. about Fall Creek Falls, adding that the upgraded dump station includes six dumps all on asphalt.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Palmer, TN?
What camping is available near Palmer, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Palmer, TN offers a wide range of camping options, with 165 campgrounds and RV parks near Palmer, TN and 8 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Palmer, TN?
Which is the most popular campground near Palmer, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Palmer, TN is Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 145 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Palmer, TN?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Palmer, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 8 free dispersed camping spots near Palmer, TN.
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