I
Irene M.
Guide
GuideWindrock Ridge Campground
Great campground!
Nicely laid out but little shade. Nice bathhouse.
Camping near Pleasant Hill, TN
191 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
The Cumberland Plateau region surrounding Pleasant Hill, Tennessee features diverse camping options within a short drive, from full-service RV parks to primitive backcountry sites. Fall Creek Falls State Park, approximately 25 miles southwest, stands as one of Tennessee's premier camping destinations with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins available year-round. Cumberland Mountain State Park in nearby Crossville provides similar amenities with the addition of yurts. Several privately operated campgrounds like Davy Crockett Campground and Spacious Skies Belle Ridge complement these state facilities with varying levels of amenities and site types.
Reservations are essential for most established campgrounds in the region, particularly during summer months and fall color season when visitation peaks. Many campers note the importance of securing spots well in advance at popular destinations like Fall Creek Falls. The area's terrain features rolling hills and plateau landscapes with elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 feet, creating moderate temperature variations between seasons. As one visitor observed, "Fall Creek Falls is one of the best recreational areas in Tennessee. The park is very large and has so much to do. The falls are amazing, and it's a moderate hike down to the base." Cell service can be limited in more remote areas, with several reviewers mentioning connectivity challenges.
Waterfront camping opportunities exist throughout the region, with Rock Island State Park offering sites near dramatic waterfalls and swimming areas. According to one camper, "The falls are the main attraction at the park and are pretty awesome to hike down around and through. Pay attention to the weather and warnings." Wildlife sightings, particularly deer, are common at many campgrounds. The area's natural features include numerous waterfalls, lakes, and forested hiking trails. Most established campgrounds provide standard amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restrooms, while more primitive options in places like Virgin Falls State Natural Area offer a more secluded experience with minimal facilities. Visitors consistently praise the region's scenic beauty and relatively uncrowded nature compared to the more heavily visited Smoky Mountains.
Best Campgrounds near Pleasant Hill (191)
1. Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground
"Fall creek falls is one of the best recreational areas in Tennessee. The park is very large and has so much to do. The falls are amazing, and it’s a moderate hike down to the base."
"Tons to do at one of Tennessee’s top state parks."
2. Cumberland Mountain State Park Campground
"Cumberland Mountain has a total of 145 campsites, spread across 5 loops, plus a backcountry site on an 8 mile backpacking trail."
"Great spacious site with beautiful scenery all around! There’s a lake and walking trails. Descent bathrooms. Water nearby and they sell firewood."
3. Davy Crockett Campground
"Tennessee State Parks are typically well kept and scenic."
"We chose Davy Crockery’s because of its proximity to the interstate. We spent 3 nights. We arrived after dark so the office was closed, but check in is online so it didn’t matter."
from $54 - $60 / night
Check Availability4. Spacious Skies Belle Ridge
"I seek off the beaten path places, and this campground is a gem."
"First, one advantage/disadvantage is it is located right off 40. If you are placed in one of the sites in the front it’s going to be very noisy."
from $29 - $144 / night
Check Availability5. Crossville / I-40 KOA Holiday Campground
"There is a road close by but not a major freeway. It’s one of the quieter KOA’s I have stayed at. Pool is small but very clean. The store is well stocked and you can get hand dipped ice cream."
"It does sit right next to Highway 70 into Crossville and can be noisy but it didn’t bother us. Each bathroom is a private toilet and shower, very clean, nicely tiled and plenty of hot water."
6. Virgin Falls State Natural Area - Primitive
"The trails were really clearly marked, so they were easy to follow despite all of the leaves on the ground, and there were plenty of signs indicating where to go."
"8 miles is pretty accurate of a round trip. It's a lot downhill until you get to the falls then you gotta hike all the way back out."
from $10 - $35 / night
Check Availability7. Bean Pot Campground
"the staff was super friendly. we ran out of paper towel, (which they don’t sell at the camp store), but they were kind enough to sell us one of there own personal rolls. had a cute little area for walking"
from $30 - $45 / night
Check Availability8. Rock Island State Park Campground
"Rock Island State Park is situated in the middle of Tennessee. The park itself is surrounded by beautiful forest and some pretty great and easy hiking trails. The falls themselves are a sight to see."
"Off I24 near Murfreesboro, Tn and a leisurely drive through the Tennessee countryside. Small towns, pickups and cows. Watch for stop signs, I almost missed one while looking at the scenery."
9. Paradise on the Mountain RV Park
"They have a hand built fireplace under a large overhang near the office. Great space for grilling or hanging out. Surround sound speakers play music for your enjoyment on the patio."
"Office people were friendly, they took us to our site (wish they all did instead of wandering around) it was easy in and easy out. Place was well marked off the highway and close to 40E."
from $55 / night
Check Availability10. Ballyhoo Family Campground
Drive Time
- 1 hr 13 min from Knoxville, TN
- 1 hr 32 min from Chattanooga, TN
- 1 hr 34 min from Cleveland, TN
- 1 hr 40 min from Nashville, TN
Recent Camping Photos near Pleasant Hill, TN
342 Photos of 191 Pleasant Hill Campgrounds
Moishe F.
Davy Crockett Campground
Nate H.
Virgin Falls State Natural Area - Primitive
carmen L.
Spacious Skies Belle Ridge
John
Cumberland Mountain State Park Campground
Lori H.
Holpps Pine Ridge Lake Campground
Darvin O.
Sunrise Campground - Long Term Only as of 2021
Kurt H.
Howland's Hidout
Michael N.
Freedom Hills Campground
Shelly S.
East Fork Stables
Shelly S.
Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground
Awakening Adventures L.
Awakening Adventures
Christine K.
Belle and Beau Acres
Recent Reviews near Pleasant Hill, TN
963 Reviews of 191 Pleasant Hill Campgrounds
Devin
ScoutSoaring Eagle Campground
A nice, convenient campground
They have a pool, a lake with boat ramp and dock, and picnic tables at all spots. There are a few rows of permanent spots but didn't seem ran down. The office workers were nice and easy to communicate with.
Moishe F.GuideDavy Crockett Campground
Tent camping
We had a decent tent camping experience here. They have all the amenities. The showers were great, but I saw a rat in the pool. The tent camping was a bit creepy, with very dim lights, and the picnic tables were quite dirty.
Tim S.
TravelerSmooth Rapids Campground
Favorite spot
Smooth Rapids is hands down one of our faves. We like to rent 19 & 20 together. It gives elbow room and lets us pull power and water from Lot 19 over to where we park our little teardrop on Lot 20 (which has no power or water itself). The staff team is just terrific. We like to kayak. They rent yaks or if you BYO you can also pay to shuttle. We do both depending whether we want to haul our kayaks. They have a really good bath house and a restaurant. Kids have a playground on one end but we are past those days now. You get a mix of fellow campers. This time of year is busy but even then it is usually a nice time. Folks there tend to be friendly. The Barren Fork River runs right along the entire stretch of campground and behind the restaurant. We typically do the medium length run that takes 2.5-4 hours depending on how aggressively you row. You feel like you are away in the wilderness but you’re really just tooling through McMinnville. We highly recommend it.
Christina M.ScoutWindrock Ridge Campground
Great Campground
Cabins and Campgrounds are very clean
- JJason S.Scout
White Oak Ranch
Not safe for children
They are dishonest and it is not a safe place for children. I have attached a picture of the caboose of their“train”(my son is in the background) with crowbars, trash, debris, etc. that they were allowing children to ride in. I witnessed open slices of cheese sitting on the counter in the heat for the entire day, employees handing people this cheese with their bare hands without washing them. The playground equipment was half painted and falling over. The paint cans as well as cans of wasp spray were underneath where children play for any child to access. Over half of the amenities promised were either closed, hazardous, or not available. Only excuses from the owner. No accountability and no professionalism at all. Stay far away. There many other places that are fun and safe for your children.
- MMary H.Guide
Greeter Falls Campground
Greeter camp grounds
Absolutely amazing, there were beautiful trails/hikes right down the road and it was very clean and the set up itself was just so impressive.
Mary D.GuideOld Mill Camp and General Store
Best Campground YET!
If you are looking for the perfect escape, this place is an absolute hidden gem! The entire property is beautifully landscaped, and you instantly feel completely tucked away from the rest of the world. It is directly across from the entrance of Cummins Falls State Park! Site 12 is THE BEST spot! The last photo shows a better view of the campground layout.
Here is what made it a 5-star stay for me:
The bathrooms and showers were exceptionally clean and well-maintained.
The grounds are immaculate and peaceful to walk through.
A general store with a little deli. Super convenient for grabbing a quick, delicious bite, souvenirs, and snacks
Everyone working here was incredibly kind, welcoming, and helpful.
It is rare to find a spot that feels this peaceful and secluded while still being so well taken care of. 10/10 recommend!
I had no issues with cell service: T-mobile There is wifi, but it is spotty and not too strong.
- Nan N.Traveler
Floating Mill - Center Hill Lake
Beautiful place on the water
We loved it here! There are some very private spots for tent camping right at the water. We were in a more tight, less private rv spot, but it was still beautiful. And we ended up having a pull through site, which was great. Bath houses were well maintained, great swim area in the lake.
Guide to Pleasant Hill
Camping near Pleasant Hill, Tennessee offers varied backcountry options with elevations between 1,000-2,000 feet creating distinct seasonal experiences. The Cumberland Plateau region provides camping opportunities ranging from primitive sites with minimal facilities to full-hookup RV parks. Cell reception varies significantly across campgrounds, with stronger signals closer to Interstate 40 and limited connectivity in more remote areas.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Virgin Falls State Natural Area offers an 8-mile round trip hike with multiple waterfalls and caves to explore. "Amazing views! Multiple waterfalls and caves to explore. Highly recommend checking it out. Hike is around 8 miles round trip. Water filters would be a must in my book," notes one visitor to Virgin Falls State Natural Area.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds provide fishing access with varying catch restrictions. At Davy Crockett Campground, "My teens loved it & so did I. My girls got to fish in the morning & evening, see deer by our campsite & relax from the August heat in Shoal Creek," shares one camper at Davy Crockett Campground.
Swimming spots: Beyond the popular falls, many campgrounds offer swimming areas during summer months. "Took my kids swimming here last weekend. We got a day use pass pass $5 per adult. Kids under 6 are free to get in so all my kids were free. The kids had the best time," reports a visitor to Spacious Skies Belle Ridge.
What campers like
Quiet camping experiences: Many campgrounds provide secluded options away from crowds. "We had a very large area. The spots were large, and easy to maneuver. The hiking trails are great. They had areas to sit, and enjoy the view," writes a camper about their experience at Spacious Skies Belle Ridge.
Accessibility to multiple attractions: The central location provides easy access to several natural areas. "This campground is perfect for weekend camping! It has a pen that hold 2 mules and the view of the mountains is amazing!" notes a camper at Crossville / I-40 KOA.
Trail connectivity: Some campgrounds offer direct trail access without needing to drive. "There is a great trail that connects the campgrounds with the Woodland Trail. Once you've parked at the campground, there's no need to get in your car until you leave!" explains a visitor to Fall Creek Falls State Park.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Campsite terrain varies significantly across campgrounds. At Cumberland Mountain State Park, "This is a nice area but sites in my section were pretty steep as in on a big hill so us tenters get quite a workout going up to the bathhouse! Not to mention, was very difficult to fit two tents and vehicles at the site since the ONLY level spot was the gravel drive," warns a tent camper at Cumberland Mountain State Park Campground.
Water safety awareness: During dam releases, water conditions can change quickly. "Pay attention to the weather and warnings," is common advice from rangers and experienced campers.
Reservation timing: Campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons (April-October). Many require bookings 3-6 months in advance, especially for holiday weekends and fall color season in October.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Some campgrounds offer better play facilities than others. "We had a blast at this KOA! The sites were clean and beautiful. Big bathhouse rooms. I really appreciated the family management. We stayed during Halloween and they organized sites for trick or treating and had hot chocolate and candy in the office," shares a parent from Crossville / I-40 KOA.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer ranger-led programs during summer months. "A Great Place for New Campers! We love to camp at Fall Creek Falls State Park and think this would be a great park for novice campers due to the fact that the facilities are very nice," recommends a visitor to Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground.
Swimming options: Many families prefer campgrounds with dedicated swimming areas during summer. "The kids loved playing at the playground. The whole park was just really well kept. Bathrooms and showers were clean and in great shape," notes a family staying at Rock Island State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area have uneven sites requiring extra equipment. "We chose Davy Crockery's because of its proximity to the interstate. We spent 3 nights. We arrived after dark so the office was closed, but check in is online so it didn't matter," shares an RVer.
Off-season advantages: Winter camping provides quieter experiences with more site availability. "Good state park. Beautiful area and spacious sites. Will come again," notes a camper at Cumberland Mountain State Park.
Highway proximity considerations: Some campgrounds provide convenient access but with associated noise. "So easy to get to off i40. Beautiful place with spacious lots and many trees for shade. Gated campground for safety and Hannah to us right to our spot and get all hook up," explains a visitor to Spacious Skies Belle Ridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Pleasant Hill, TN?
What camping is available near Pleasant Hill, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Pleasant Hill, TN offers a wide range of camping options, with 191 campgrounds and RV parks near Pleasant Hill, TN and 3 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Pleasant Hill, TN?
Which is the most popular campground near Pleasant Hill, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Pleasant Hill, TN is Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 145 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Pleasant Hill, TN?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Pleasant Hill, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Pleasant Hill, TN.
What parks are near Pleasant Hill, TN?
What parks are near Pleasant Hill, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 27 parks near Pleasant Hill, TN that allow camping, notably Center Hill Lake and Stillhouse Hollow Lake.
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