Montgomery Bell State Park Campground spans 3,850 acres in the Highland Rim region about 25 miles from Pleasant View, Tennessee. The park features three lakes, 19 miles of hiking trails, and both tent and RV camping sites with varying levels of privacy. Most campground loops are situated near creeks or wooded areas, with temperatures averaging 49°F in winter and 89°F during summer months.
What to do
Creek activities: Montgomery Bell State Park offers relaxing spots where children can wade in the creek all day. "Montgomery Bell State Park is very clean and quiet. 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.
Fishing opportunities: Spring Creek Campground provides access to calm water ideal for casual fishing. According to Nicholas H., "Nice peaceful camp ground. Clean and well maintained. Can hear some road noise but generally quiet. The creek is nice and calm."
Hiking trails: Look for historic sites along the park's trail system. "Great family friendly park with lots of hiking and historical sites. There is a beautiful waterfall and an adorable old church," notes Faith S.
What campers like
Shaded sites: Montgomery Bell State Park Campground features numerous mature trees providing comfortable spaces during hot months. "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," writes Tammy P.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses. "The facilities were maintained and the staff was extremely helpful," reports Lexi S.
Wildlife viewing: Military Park Eagle's Rest Army Travel Camp offers opportunities to see deer near campsites. Leah E. notes, "There were some fields to play around in there and we loved seeing all the deer there!"
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "Make your reservations early!! Beautiful area lakes, groomed trails, nice hosts - highly recommend," advises Andrea R.
Site selection factors: Consider noise levels and proximity to facilities. At Nashville North, Mickey C. reports, "Sites are very close together. Not much room between my rv and neighbor. Noisy due to the highway that is very close. Great sounds of the trucks to keep you awake."
Tent camping considerations: Some parks have limited tent-only areas. "We chose to stay in the tent only camping sites. They are spread out far enough that you don't feel like you are in one another space. However, they are all together in the center of the RV camping loop," shares Lexi S.
Tips for camping with families
Explore yurt camping: Pleasant View, Tennessee area offers yurt and cabin alternatives for families wanting more comfort. Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground provides yurt options alongside traditional camping. "We stayed here for the long Presidents Day weekend in a wooded drive through spot with few neighbors. We saw 10 deer one morning and hiked a trail with our 3 boys and 2 dogs," explains Ines M.
Holiday events: Many parks offer seasonal activities. "Their halloween weekend is a great time of fun for the kids!" mentions Justin L.
Weather preparation: Pack for all conditions, even during expected fair weather. Amy P. shares, "We took our 3 young kids during monsoon season and the staff where amazing and getting the kids out and into nature!"
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookup differences: Nashville KOA Resort offers multiple options for power connections. "We decided to try a back-in spot (R12) along the wall that separates the KOA from the RV campground next door. Nice and quiet, adequate shade during the day, and right next to the dog park!" says Jason F.
Site layout variations: Consider utility placement when selecting sites. "The site I had was a little awkward backing into and the water hookup was on the wrong side for my camper. Nice facilities," notes Nathan R.
Crowding concerns: Holiday weekends can feel particularly cramped. Jody A. advises, "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. Too many people, dogs and kids that are too close together."
Legend
