Tent camping around Pleasant View, Tennessee offers rustic overnight experiences in Middle Tennessee's rolling hills. Located in Cheatham County about 25 miles northwest of Nashville, the area features moderate humidity with summer temperatures typically reaching the high 80s. Several primitive camping options provide access to the Cumberland River watershed with most sites requiring campers to bring their own water filtration systems.
What to do
Water activities: The Cumberland River provides opportunities for fishing and swimming near Whooping Crane Farm where campers can enjoy riverside sites. A reviewer noted, "The River would be difficult to access, at least while we were there in late August, as there is a big drop off from the bank. I'm not sure if this is normal, or if the water lever was low."
Hiking trails: Explore woodland trails at Bells Bend Park where hiking paths traverse farmland. One visitor reported, "The park offers a lot of programs to base your camping around. The trails are through farmland and bike friendly."
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites in the region offer opportunities to observe deer, wild turkeys, and smaller wildlife. A camper at Lone Branch observed, "We saw so many Whitetail Deer, it was amazing. They would just come into the campground, feed and walk around. They didn't seem too worried or scared of us or others around."
What campers like
Proximity to Nashville: Tent camping near Pleasant View gives visitors a rural experience while maintaining access to urban amenities. As noted by one camper at Camp Nashville Highland Rim, "At Camp Nashville, you can make day trips to the city and come back to your cozy campsite after a day exploring the city!"
Lakefront camping: Multiple campsites offer water views or direct access to swimming spots. A visitor to Smith Springs commented, "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."
Affordability: Many campsites in the region have reasonable fees. One camper detailed the pricing at Bells Bend Park: "$10.00 a night per site for Davidson Co. residents, $11.00 a night per site for out of County residents, you can reserve all 10 sites for $50.00."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most tent camping sites near Pleasant View have minimal amenities. At Laguardo, facilities include drinking water, toilets and a sanitary dump, but no electric hookups, showers or trash disposal.
Access challenges: Some areas require extra effort to reach. A reviewer of Long Hunter State Park Primitive Campsites mentioned, "If you enjoy carrying all your essentials on your back and sucking your water through a filtered straw then this is the camping/backpacking park for you!"
Seasonal pests: Insect activity increases in summer months, especially near water. One camper warned about Long Hunter State Park: "We left with multiple bites, and were constantly picking them off each other and our gear. They seemed to be worst around the fire pit, so we couldn't sit around and enjoy the fire."
Tips for camping with families
Shallow water areas: Find family-friendly swimming spots with gradual entry points. A reviewer of Smith Springs noted the area has "lots of shallows for kids."
Practice runs: Some local sites work well for introducing children to camping. According to one camper, Long Hunter State Park Primitive Campsites are "excellent practice run on your primitive skills. Pack distribution and what you need, no major climbs. This is a good trail to try out your skills before attempting a more challenging trip."
Wildlife encounters: Children often enjoy observing the local animals. A visitor to Lone Branch shared, "There were TONS of squirrels, which seemed pretty okay with humans as well. When we were eating, they were right there with us."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping near Pleasant View has few sites suitable for RVs. Cook - J. Percy Priest Reservoir receives mixed reviews with one camper noting it's "Easy to get to, ample room between campers, close to local shopping."
Primitive camping focus: The majority of campsites cater to tent campers with minimal RV facilities. One reviewer of the area observed that primitive sites provide "all you need and nothing more. The spots are beautiful though. Right on the water."
Day use alternatives: RVers may prefer using facilities for day trips only. A visitor mentioned that "If all you want is a spot to drop your boat in the water and be around a bunch of other people, this is your place."
