Cabin accommodations near Portland, Tennessee offer convenient access to both natural attractions and cultural sites. Located in north central Tennessee, Portland sits at approximately 800 feet elevation with a humid subtropical climate featuring hot summers and mild winters. The area's position between Nashville and Bowling Green makes it a strategic base for visitors exploring the Cumberland Plateau and Highland Rim.
What to do
Explore the Green River: Near Mammoth Cave Campground, visitors can enjoy kayaking and fishing. "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!" according to Jason F. about nearby Nashville KOA.
Visit local wineries: Several cabin rental properties are situated near regional wineries. "One of the coolest deals is the local winery deals while staying there," notes Laura H. about the Nashville North KOA experience.
Try putt-putt golf: Many cabin campgrounds include recreational activities with your stay. "So first with your fee you recieve (you and all your group) a free game of Minature Golf a day," explains Shelly S. about Bowling Green KOA, which is about 45 minutes from Portland.
Attend seasonal events: The region hosts special events throughout the year. "Two cool events to check out are the Highland Games, (men in skirts throwing things)and the Bourbonfest a newer event," says Shelly S. about Barren River Lake State Resort Park Campground.
What campers like
Easy access to Nashville: Cabin rentals near Portland provide routes to urban attractions. "The proximity to the Opry and surrounding sites is fantastic. Top that off with front desk, event and maintenance staff that were all super nice and you've got a great combo," shares Jennifer H. about Nashville KOA Resort.
Wildlife viewing: Many cabin sites offer opportunities to spot native animals. "Deer & turkey walk thru ur campsite! Very clean & quiet! The wildlife are very friendly!" says Gloria J. about her cabin stay at Mammoth Cave Campground.
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention hygiene standards at cabin rentals. "Truly the nicest folks I have met at campground so far. All lots are pull through. They have a huge pavilion for events, nice pool, showers, and very clean restrooms," reports Mike F. about Dad's Bluegrass Campground.
Quiet natural settings: The cabin campgrounds near Portland typically offer peaceful environments. "Comfortable campsite. Adequate power and water pressure. Swimming pool was very busy and well maintained. Level gravel sites and bath house very clean. Busy campground but everything quietened down after 10 pm," shares James R. about Nashville North KOA.
What you should know
Reservation timing: During peak season, cabin bookings fill quickly. "Reserve early because it seems the campground is always full," advises Gillian C. about Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground.
Site variations: Cabin quality and amenities vary widely between properties. "Some of the campsites have wheels for fire pits while others have nice stone pits. Some of the campsites have picnic tables while others have nice patio tables and chairs," explains Kevin B. about Bowling Green KOA.
Highway noise: Some cabin sites experience road noise. "Very very noisy due to the highway that runs right on the other side of the tree line. But... the folks running the show are really nice," notes Mary L. about Nashville North KOA.
Winter access: Several cabin rentals operate year-round with limited services. "We had a nice level pull through site near the front. Some of the other sites I saw seemed to be pretty close together but luckily I didn't end up with any neighbors. The grounds were clean and staff was friendly," shares Jil S. about Nashville East-Lebanon KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Look for cabin playgrounds: Some properties offer extensive children's activities. "There is a beautiful pool, playground and basketball court for kids! The place is also pet friendly," recommends Tara about Dad's Bluegrass Campground.
Consider waterfront options: Lakeside cabin rentals provide additional recreation. "The view from our site was gorgeous...! It truly didn't matter what time of day it was, the view was always beautiful! Being able to park your boat within walking distance of your camper, load up and go when you please, we loved that!" shares jeni about Barren River Lake State Resort Park Campground.
Check event schedules: Many campgrounds host family-friendly activities. "Their halloween weekend is a great time of fun for the kids!" notes Justin L. about Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground.
Evaluate bathroom proximity: When booking cabin sites with children, bathroom location matters. "The sites are close together, had a back in site which as described was close to a creek, but no mention of the highway right behind the creek," points out Olaf I. about Nashville North KOA.
Tips from RVers
Measure cabin access roads: Some cabin areas have challenging approaches. "The spots are close together, but some in the middle of the campground were better. Regardless it was quiet and seemed like more long term campers," advises Katie B. about Nashville East-Lebanon KOA.
Check site leveling: Cabin renters with trailers should verify site grading. "Friendly folks, but the entire campground is kinda hilly. You can get level in the pull through, but just if you park so-so," cautions Candy H. about Nashville East-Lebanon KOA.
Bring leveling equipment: Terrain varies significantly between cabin sites. "Our site was nowhere near level side to side. We didn't even sit out under the awning because so many cabins and campers were all facing where we were," warns Steve G. about Nashville East-Lebanon KOA.
Consider site space needs: Some cabin areas have limited parking. "We were in a busier site at the end of Abby Dr but it was an easy walk to the two small 'lakes'(more like ponds) and the dog park and showerhouse (with dogwash station) were a short walk away," shares Shelly S. about Bowling Green KOA.
