Montgomery Bell State Park offers numerous camping options less than 20 miles from Pegram, Tennessee. The park spans 3,850 acres of forested land across the Highland Rim physiographic region, featuring ridges and valleys with elevation changes of 200-300 feet throughout the property. Winter camping typically experiences temperatures between 30-50°F while summer months average 75-90°F with higher humidity levels.
What to do
Fishing at Lock A Campground: Located along the Cumberland River, Lock A provides direct access to fishing with many waterfront sites. "Had a wonderful time at this camp site the Lake is lovely, a beautiful place to go camping at," notes Leah P., highlighting the water access that makes this spot popular for anglers year-round.
Hiking historical trails: Seven Points Campground offers hiking opportunities with sites situated near J. Percy Priest Lake. "VERY nice campground! Everything is very well kept and neat. We were located close to all of the sights we were going to and had the bonus of a very scenic campground to explore!" reports Sara D.
Kayaking the Cumberland: Harpeth River Bridge Campground provides river access for water sports. "Harpeth River Bridge Campground is newer, small and very nice. Only 15 sites including the campground hosts," writes Shelly S., adding that "Watersports are the only flavor on the menu."
What campers like
Spacious riverfront sites: Piney River Resort offers premium riverside camping less than 30 minutes from Pegram. "We are on the river side. Spaces are nicely spaced. Views are perfect. Staff is very nice," says Alanna R., highlighting the benefits of waterfront sites.
Privacy of primitive camping: Bells Bend Park provides a more secluded camping option with sites that require hiking in. "10 total sites. No drive up. Pack it in, pack it out. Firewood provided. Call the outdoor center for availability," explains Krista A., noting the campground is open year-round.
Live entertainment options: At many campgrounds near Pegram, evening activities include local performances. "Live music every night was nice. Backing my trailer is not my strong suite but the guided me through it like it was nothing," comments Ed S. about his stay at Grand Ole RV Resort.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds in the area operate year-round but with varying services. "This place is OK when it's not a busy weekend. We stayed on Memorial Day Weekend and it's was completely full. When it's full, it's just TOO full," cautions Jody A. about Montgomery Bell State Park Campground.
Transportation logistics: Some campgrounds offer shuttle services to downtown Nashville. "The campground has a small store with supplies, a restaurant with a menu available (though we cooked our own food), and live music each night while we were there during the summer," notes Randi P. about Grand Ole RV Resort.
Noise levels: Railroad tracks and highways near some campgrounds can create noise issues. "There's also a lot of interstate noise. The playground area across from us went crazy with kids running around and screaming with no adult supervision," reports MickandKarla W. about their experience at Nashville KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Look for creek access: Several campgrounds offer water play areas for children. "We really enjoyed our spot by the creek. Children can wade in the creek all day, why parents enjoy sitting outside under all the shade trees," shares Tammy P. about Montgomery Bell.
Consider site location carefully: When camping with kids, site selection matters. "FAMILIES +++ With a great pavilion, Vb court, ball diamond, and playground, the far side of the camp is perfect for families, groups, and events," suggests Stæven F. about Montgomery Bell State Park.
Plan for bathroom access: Family camping requires consideration of facilities. "The bathhouse, pavilion and basketball court are up behind the campground at the base of the hills," explains Shelly S. about Lock A Campground, which also features "a playground, pavilion and beach area."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have better leveling than others. "The site I had was a little awkward backing into and the water hookup was on the wrong side for my camper," notes Nathan R. about his experience at Montgomery Bell.
Electric hookup variations: Most campgrounds offer electric hookups, but amperage varies. "Our pull through patio site was $120/nt, and that was during early spring time," shares David S. about Nashville KOA Resort, indicating the premium pricing for full-service RV sites.
Access road considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. "Staff we talked to was very kind but the drive in from the highway was very scary on narrow, windy roads with dropoffs on the side," cautions Pat&Amanda D. about their experience at Piney River Resort, adding that "both were scary in our Class A towing a car hauler."
Guide
