Tent campsites near Paris, Tennessee range from shoreline spots to forested hideaways, with most sites located within the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. The terrain varies from flat lakeside areas to elevated woodland settings with gradual slopes. Camping conditions typically include natural surfaces that can become muddy after rainfall, with summer temperatures averaging 85-95°F and high humidity levels.
What to do
Water activities: At Redd Hollow Campground, the lake access makes fishing and swimming popular activities. Camper Chris O. confirms you can enjoy "swimming in the summer and fishing year around. The views are spectacular." The shoreline is rocky in some areas but provides good water access.
Trail riding: Land Between the Lakes offers extensive trail systems for various vehicles. As one Redd Hollow visitor notes, "Bring your ATV, dirt bike or sidexside and cruise the trails right along Lake Barkley. They have over 100 miles of trails." Most trails are moderate difficulty and connect multiple camping areas.
Historical exploration: While staying at Santa's Woods, explore the large trees and trails. Jake C. mentions the area is "full of large trees and trails" where you can "find the spot that calls to you for your camping adventure." The walk-in tent sites provide good access points to local historical features.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront: Campers consistently praise the quiet lakeside locations. At Forest Service Rd 343, Andrew C. shares, "This is one of the best spots I've found on this app...Beautiful view with a nice fire pit, I was able to swim and had a great night to myself!" Most waterfront sites fill quickly during summer weekends.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to observe native wildlife. Katie from Forest Service Rd 343 recommends "seeing the buffalo on the way in or out." Wildlife viewing is most productive at dawn and dusk, with many species visible from campsite areas.
Level camping spots: At Gatlin Point Self-Service Campground, tent campsites feature flat, prepared areas. Marcella describes the campground as "Beautiful, right by a little lake, super quiet and clean." The campsites have gravel bases that help with drainage during wet weather.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to many dispersed campsites require appropriate vehicles. At Ginger Bay Basic Camping Area, Jessica M. warns, "The drive in is pretty rough even with us being in a jeep though." Most backcountry roads become more challenging after rainfall.
Limited facilities: Primitive tent sites typically have minimal amenities. Jason W. describes Redd Hollow as "Nice to get away from everyone and everything. Primitive." Vault toilets are the most common facility type, with many areas lacking potable water sources.
Permit requirements: Most camping areas require either a camping permit or registration. Staci R. explains the process at Redd Hollow: "I drive through, find my site, then walk back to the entrance and complete the registration card, place payment in the envelope and drop it in the 'Iron Ranger.'" Self-service registration is standard at most sites.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose campgrounds with appropriate amenities for children. At Gatlin Point, Marcella notes amenities include "bathroom, fire pit, picnic table" which makes the experience more comfortable for families with young children.
Swimming areas: Locate camps with safe water access points. Redd Hollow camper Randy S. mentions: "Approx 30 sites. Sites are gravel and pretty level. At least half of the sites have a view of the lake." The shallow entry points at designated swimming areas provide safer conditions for children.
Wildlife education: Use camping trips as learning opportunities about local ecosystems. At Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park Group Campground, KO4FIE-Logan shares it's "quiet, depending on your camping neighbors, and just sitting on the banks watching the boats go by is peaceful." The park offers several interpretive signs about local wildlife.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Most tent-focused camping areas have limited space for RVs. Randy S. reports camping at Redd Hollow "with a 26 foot towable" and notes the sites are "pretty level," though not all sites accommodate larger vehicles.
Dry camping preparation: For tent sites near Paris that allow RVs, come prepared for basic conditions. GoWhereYouAreDraw N. cautions about Ginger Bay: "I don't recommend a pull behind trailer as the road is so rough you wont get a camper up it. The sites are just a clearing in the trees so there is no place to park a rig."
Seasonal planning: Visit during weekdays for less crowded conditions. Tobias R. from Forest Service Rd 343 notes, "The road coming in is a little washed out but not too pitted. I'd recommend AWD/4WD and 8+ inches of clearance, especially if it has rained because it's pretty steep in sections." Spring and fall offer milder temperatures with fewer campers.
