Tent camping near Pegram, Tennessee provides access to multiple primitive sites within a 30-minute drive. Located in the Highland Rim geographical region, the area features rolling hills with elevations ranging from 500-1,000 feet and typical Cumberland River valley terrain. Most tent camping locations maintain seasonal temperature variations with summer highs often reaching 90°F, requiring adequate hydration and shade considerations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Camp Nashville Highland Rim, campers can make day trips into the city and return to their campsite after exploring. According to Jake C., "due to city regulations, it can be difficult to find camping this close to the city. At Camp Nashville, you can make day trips to the city and come back to your cozy campsite after a day exploring."
Kayaking access: Laguardo Recreation Area offers water sport options with boat-in camping possibilities. As Tya T. notes, "I've only been here kayaking but it's nice and clean." The recreation area maintains multiple water access points with designated paddling zones away from motorized traffic.
Wildlife observation: Tent campers regularly report wildlife sightings throughout the Pegram camping region. Mandy C. shares her experience at Long Hunter State Park: "Primitive campsite 1 has 3 long log benches and a grill. It is located directly by the water, so you have a water filtration source at your finger tips. It is a great swimming spot with flat rocks to hang out on."
What campers like
Private riverside settings: Whooping Crane Farm offers secluded tent camping on the Cumberland River. Lori H. reports, "Whooping Crane Farm is located In such a great spot, just outside Nashville, it is easy to get to, but convenient to everything. The camp spot is fantastic! Right on the Cumberland River, the spot is very secluded, and plenty of space for a group."
Practice for backpacking: Primitive sites let campers test gear and skills before bigger adventures. One experienced camper notes about Long Hunter: "This is a good trail to try out your skills before attempting a more challenging trip. Basic Tennessee woodland and animals."
Nature immersion: Bells Bend Park combines farmland with wooded areas. Shelly S. describes it as "close to the city but nature all around. Farmland with spots of woodland. Primitive camping, in the trees on a hill. Group only. There are some tables and some fire rings. But the sky is immense."
What you should know
Insect preparation: Tick prevention is essential during warmer months. Mandy C. warns about Long Hunter State Park: "However, it was the most ticks any of us had seen, including tiny seed ticks. We left with multiple bites, and were constantly picking them off each other and our gear... I would bring LOTS of DEET bug spray."
Facility limitations: Resurrection Ridge Retreat offers primitive camping with basic amenities. Most tent sites throughout the area have varying levels of facilities, with many requiring campers to pack in all supplies and pack out waste.
Water access considerations: Some sites require water filtering equipment. At Long Hunter State Park, primitive campsites are situated where "you have a water filtration source at your finger tips," though proper filtration equipment is necessary.
Tips for camping with families
Short hike options: Many tent campgrounds require walking to reach sites. Sasha R. shares about Long Hunter State Park, "Even though 6 miles is quite the hike for a young Girl Scout Troop just to reach our Campsite it was beyond worth it!"
Cost considerations: Smith Springs offers affordable camping with waterfront access. DrDavid P. describes it as having "spots right on the water" and notes "the water area here is slightly different than some of the other areas I visited on the lake. Looks like it'd be great for just jumping in and lots of shallows for kids."
Wildlife viewing: Multiple camping areas feature regular animal sightings. Alicia F. mentions about Long Hunter State Park, "There are lots of rules and lots of signs! The park is spread out into 2 areas and you can swim in one but not in the other. There are great places to run and hike."
Tips for RVers
Limited RV options: While tent camping dominates near Pegram, some areas can accommodate smaller RVs. Joshua G. notes that Long Hunter offers "great place to camp both RV and primitive!"
Day use alternatives: Old Hickory Beach provides water access without overnight facilities. Shelly S. explains, "Boat ramp, fishing, picnic and beach areas, no camping. 5$ for beach access and no dogs in the beach area."
Parking constraints: Most tent camping areas have restricted parking areas separate from campsites. Krista A. explains about Bells Bend Park: "No drive up. Pack it in, pack it out. Firewood provided. Call the outdoor center for availability. Campground is open year round. Portapotty in the parking lot or hike to the outdoor center for flushing toilets and running water."
