Davis Pond sits 45 minutes outside Chattanooga in the Prentice Cooper State Forest Wildlife Management Area. The last 7 miles require navigation on a gravel road with the final half-mile needing some ground clearance. The primitive camping area features dirt-and-rock fire pits near a fishing pond, with lantern posts and picnic tables available at some sites. The two-station pit toilet has been reported as poorly maintained.
What to do
Trail riding access: At Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground, campers can enjoy miles of hiking trails. "There's tons to do from hiking, to swimming, waterfall gazing, rock climbing, ziplining, and much more," notes Brandie D. The park includes trails that cross rope bridges and connect to scenic waterfalls.
Rock climbing adventures: Near Sawmill Lake Campsite, climbers can access Rocktown with a short 5-minute drive. "The close proximity to the many wonders of Rocktown is a dream for climbers. Meant we could spend most of the climbing, rather than making a long approach," writes Abigail P. A $15 permit is required to access the climbing areas.
Swimming spots: Several locations offer swimming opportunities during warmer months. "Make sure you do three things while you're there: hike to the bottom of the big waterfall (Fall Creek Falls), swim in the cascades next to the nature center, and stand on the edge of the bluff at Buzzard's Roost," recommends Myke C. about Fall Creek Falls State Park.
What campers like
Secluded backcountry camping: At Walls of Jericho - Clark Cemetery Backcountry Campsite, hikers appreciate the remote setting. "Down hill the entire way. Hard hike out, DUH! Up hill the entire way... Beautiful view at the bottom, remote camp site, Hike in only, plenty of places to hang a hammock, water available, bring a filter," notes Kevin M. The site requires about an hour hike to reach.
Equestrian-friendly campsites: Several horse campgrounds near Whitwell, Tennessee provide facilities for riders. "Great place to stay beautiful view nice place to kick back and relax if need staff very kind people," mentions John H. about Mountain Cove Resort, which accommodates equestrians in the region.
Fishing opportunities: Many sites offer fishing access. "The little pond is a breeding ground for lots of bugs, but it's peaceful and pretty to look at. Not many fish biting this time of year. We did see a couple go out on an inflatable boat," reports Tessa B. about Davis Pond.
What you should know
Road conditions: Several campgrounds require navigating gravel or rough roads. "The road leading up to the campsite is extremely rough and washed out. We were in a Subaru Outback, and it was a very slow-going, bumpy ride — we bottomed out several times," warns Abigail P. about the road to Sawmill Lake Campsite.
Bathroom facilities: Expect primitive or limited facilities at most sites. "I guess that's what you get from no camp fees," notes Tessa B. about Davis Pond's rudimentary toilets.
Connectivity limitations: Mountain Cove Resort has minimal connectivity. "Be warned... There is no cell service and no Wi-Fi. Off the grid. There is a country store on site with minimal need items," explains Nathan T. Most primitive sites in the region have similar connectivity challenges.
Tips for camping with families
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds have site spacing issues. "The camp slots on area C are so close to one another that most people couldn't use their fire pits for fear of burning their own tent, or their neighbor's," reports Andrea S. about Fall Creek Falls State Park, recommending avoiding area C for families.
Child-friendly activities: Fairview Campground — Tims Ford State Park offers water-based recreation. "Great campground on the water and spacious sites. Water access at your campsite to swim or kayak. Nice bathhouse, clean facilities," notes Clinton N. The 4th of July features fireworks displays.
All-weather options: Look for campgrounds with indoor alternatives for rainy days. "The Inn has a buffet style restaurant, all rooms overlook the lake, and there's a game room for the kids as well as a heated pool," mentions Brandie D. about lodging options at Fall Creek Falls.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: At Rvino - The Broken Banjo, RVers find accommodating sites. "We were then escorted to one of their 'long' pull through sites with FHUs, site 27. What we first noticed was the large cement patio with table, chairs, bench, stand up barbecue, and fire pit," shares MickandKarla W. The site features utilities located in the middle of the pad with extra sewer connections.
Leveling challenges: Pay attention to site grades when booking. "We stopped overnight and did not have to disconnect, as we were perfectly level," notes Scotty W. about Rvino - The Broken Banjo. Other campgrounds in the region may require additional supports for leveling.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some RV parks. "This park is located in Manchester, TN right next to I-24, so if you are in the pull-throughs on the front row, you will hear the traffic," warns Scotty W. Many equestrian camping areas near Whitwell offer more secluded options away from highway noise.
