Camping cabins near Palmer, Tennessee provide visitors with shelter options amid the Cumberland Plateau, where elevations range from 1,000 to 1,800 feet. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night, making cabin accommodations particularly valuable during colder months. Most cabins require advanced reservations, especially during peak season from April through October when trails and waterfalls attract outdoor enthusiasts.
What to do
Waterfall hiking trails: Several trails lead to impressive waterfalls near Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground. "So many trails, so little time. One of the best hiking parks I've ever been to. Miles and miles of trails; short, long, loops, overnights. This place has it all," notes one camper who recommends hiking to the bottom of the big waterfall at Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground.
Cave exploration: Visit Raccoon Mountain Caverns for underground adventures. "Crystal Cave was right on site and we enjoyed the guided tour. Advanced reservations are required," explains a visitor to Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground. Tours last approximately 45 minutes and operate daily during summer months.
Outdoor adventures: Try various activities like disc golf, fishing, or paragliding. "Perfect location and the cabin is less than 10 min away from the paragliding take off spot," mentions a visitor to Camp Chet. Many adventure opportunities exist within 30-minute drives from most cabin locations.
What campers like
Comfortable beds: Many cabins offer quality sleeping accommodations. "The Pepoon Cabin bed was so comfortable! There was a gas heater we didn't end up using, but good to know for future colder visits," notes a reviewer from Camp Chet, highlighting that many cabins now feature proper mattresses rather than basic bunks.
Cooking options: Cabin sites provide various cooking facilities beyond basic fire pits. At Glamping at Deer Camp, "They have a propane oven and propane stoves. Refrigeration is a cooler with ice that held our one night," explains a visitor who appreciated these amenities for meal preparation.
Privacy between sites: Many cabins offer secluded settings away from other campers. "The yurts are spaced away from each other and off the road, and offer a lot of privacy; the loop that serves the yurts is not connected to any other road," reports a visitor to Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground, which is approximately 45 minutes from Palmer.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary significantly: Some primitive cabins have no bathrooms while others have modern facilities. "The whole bathroom design is just remarkable. Unlimited hot water with clear paneling and windows, you feel like you are showering outside!" writes a visitor to Glamping at Deer Camp, contrasting with more rustic options elsewhere.
Seasonal water availability: Water sources can be unreliable during dry periods. At Hobbs Cabin, "Spring is located approximately 50 yards south of Hobbs cabin. Spring water may not be available during dry conditions," notes a camper who visited Hobbs Cabin Campground.
Electrical service differences: Power options range from none to full electrical hookups. "We went to site 212 sold to us as a deluxe site which we found no evidence of anything deluxe," reports one dissatisfied visitor, highlighting the importance of confirming specific amenities before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Chester Frost Park, "This place is definitely somewhere you wanna bring your kids they would love it! There is a man made beach with a playground and loads of camping lots next to the river!"
Educational opportunities: Many cabins provide learning experiences for children. "We feel God's presence there as He speaks to us in prayer. Our hosts Robert and Ruth are our friends and make our stay special each time," explains a visitor describing quiet opportunities for reflection at Camp Chet.
Storage conveniences: Some cabins provide unexpected amenities that help families. At Fireside Camp + Lodge, "Inside the converted barn, you'll find comfortable couches, hang boards for climbing enthusiasts, a vintage fridge, and even a Pac-Man game for some retro fun," notes a visitor describing available entertainment options.
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: Not all cabins accommodate large vehicles at their parking areas. "Site 212 pull-thru was not long enough to keep our tow vehicle connected to our 27ft trailer," notes a visitor highlighting potential parking limitations.
Multi-day trip planning: RVers often combine cabin stays with other accommodations. "Used this spot as a late night stopover while en route to Florida. Little ways off the interstate, but has full hookups," explains a visitor to Bigfoot Adventure RV Park, indicating the location's usefulness as part of longer journeys.
Utility hookups: Water and electrical connections vary widely between locations. "Sites are mostly level and bathhouses are clean and close. Few sites have sewer and most pull throughs have no shade," reports a camper describing practical considerations for those traveling with recreational vehicles.
