Camping sites near Erin, Tennessee offer diverse options between the Cumberland and Tennessee Rivers at elevations averaging 400-500 feet. The region's clay and limestone soil creates unique drainage conditions affecting campsite quality after rainfall. Spring temperatures average 65-75°F during the day and 45-55°F at night, making it a popular camping season.
What to do
Kayaking on Piney River: The crystal clear waters at Piney River Resort provide excellent kayaking opportunities about 40 miles south of Erin. "We sat in beach chairs and let the current wash over us. The swimming hole was great! We loved watching the younger crowd jump off the cliff into the water. Fishing and kayaking too!" notes Elizabeth S.
Historical exploration: Visit Fort Donelson National Historic Site near camping areas. "Beautiful area with plenty to do and history to discover," mentions Shelly S. about Dover campgrounds, which provide convenient access to Civil War historical sites.
Lakeside recreation: Kentucky Lake offers swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities at multiple access points. "We took two different weekends at Piney Campground and both times were able to get waterside spots and drop the kayaks right in at the campsite," shares Jody A., highlighting the water accessibility.
What campers like
Waterfront camping spots: Campers consistently praise the lakeside sites at Boswell Landing Campground. "This site is amazing! We were able to spread out our tents for a group site and we had the perfect set up! We were 100ft. From the lake and had so many trees to use for our hammocks," reports Brooklyn L.
Family-friendly amenities: Montgomery Bell State Park gets high marks for its family features. "With a great pavilion, Vb court, ball diamond, and playground, the far side of the camp is perfect for families, groups, and events. Our fave sites are 1-8, with #1+2 right next to the creek and the most updated bathrooms," shares Stæven F.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms stand out in camper reviews. "Restrooms and showers were clean. It was very active during one of the last weekends of the season. While quiet hours were observed, there was a lot of music, celebrating a Tennessee win with a golf cart parade and victorious choral singing of Rocky Top right up until 11pm," notes Alisha R. about Land Between The Lakes.
What you should know
Primitive camping challenges: Stewart State Forest offers true primitive camping. "There is no water, so bring plenty. There is a spring, however you have to know where it is. Plenty of firewood available," advises Douglas K. at Stewart State Forest.
Site selection timing: Waterfront sites book quickly, especially during peak seasons. "The best spots book up quickly, especially for long weekends so reserve EARLY if you want a specific date," recommends Jody A. about Piney Campground.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds require navigating challenging roads. "The drive in from the highway was very scary on narrow, windy roads with dropoffs on the side. We took the staff recommended route in and Co-Pilot's route out and both were scary in our Class A towing a car hauler," warns Pat&Amanda D. about Piney River Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access considerations: When booking sites near playgrounds, consider traffic patterns. "If you don't want kiddos walking through your campsite to get to the playground, you may want to choose a higher number," advises Stæven F. at Montgomery Bell State Park.
Water safety planning: Many campsites offer water access with varying depths. "Piney cove is pretty shallow and we could walk out into the water a good 30-40ft before getting too deep. Bottom is soft mud," explains Chris R. at Piney Campground.
Weather preparedness: Pack for temperature fluctuations, especially in spring and fall. "We took our 3 young kids during monsoon season and the staff where amazing and getting the kids out and into nature!" shares Amy P. about Montgomery Bell State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds have uneven sites requiring preparation. "The site I had was a little awkward backing into and the water hookup was on the wrong side for my camper. Nice facilities," reports Nathan R. about Montgomery Bell State Park.
Easy access options: For overnight stays, seek pull-through sites. "Stopped just for the night as we passed through. Easy access to interstate. Pull through sites were long enough for our truck & camper so we didn't have to unhitch for one night," recommends Roy T. at RJourney Clarksville RV Resort.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some camping experiences. "If only Clarksville wasn't so close to the highway... great location, much shade, good distance between rigs, level gravel pads... just a bit noisy from the proximity to highway," notes Glenn F. about RJourney Clarksville RV Resort.
