Portland, Tennessee offers tent camping opportunities near Old Hickory Lake and several state parks within 40 miles. The area features a mix of forested and waterfront campsites across rolling hills with elevations ranging from 500-700 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons provide milder conditions in the 60-75°F range with less precipitation.
What to do
Kayaking on Old Hickory Lake: Visitors at Laguardo can launch kayaks from the boat ramp for exploring the lake's coves. "I've only been here kayaking but it's nice and clean," notes one visitor who gave the area a 4-star rating.
Wildlife spotting: The woodland areas surrounding Lone Branch campground offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "One great thing about this campground is that there is wildlife everywhere. We saw so many Whitetail Deer, it was amazing. They would just come into the campground, feed and walk around," reports one camper who frequently spotted deer, turkey, and squirrels during their stay.
Backcountry hiking: For more adventurous tent campers near Portland, the trail system at Turnhole Backcountry Campsite offers multiple route options. "Turnhole Campsite is a short or long hike from the Maple Springs parking area. Sal Hollow Trail would be the long trail, twisty, turny and moderately challenging. Buffalo Trail is a straight hike in, take a left at the intersection and straight on to the campsite. Difference of about 3 miles-ish," explains a reviewer who appreciated the well-marked trails.
What campers like
Proximity to Nashville: Camp Nashville Highland Rim offers tent campers a convenient base for exploring the city. "I had a chance to talk with the owner at Camp Nashville and learned that due to city regulations, it can be difficult to find camping this close to the city. At Camp Nashville, you can make day trips to the city and come back to your cozy campsite after a day exploring the city!" writes one camper.
Lakefront access: Many tent campers appreciate the waterfront locations at Smith Springs. "The camping is normal. Nothing special, but perfectly adequate. All you need and nothing more. The spots are beautiful though. Right on the water. 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," notes a reviewer who found the location peaceful.
Secluded camping: Tent campers seeking seclusion appreciate the privacy at Turnhole Backcountry Campsite. "This is a nice, secluded spot. You are on the end of a ridge. Clear nights with a bright moon were magical here," shares a camper who stayed in August. The site features a tent pad, hooks for lanterns or packs, and a fire ring with an attached grate.
What you should know
Tick prevalence: Summer camping in the wooded areas requires vigilant tick checks. At Turnhole Backcountry Campsite, water accessibility can be challenging: "Despite this campsite being surrounded by the Green River on 3 sides, water is hard to come by here, and hiking it in may be your best bet. The river is at least 1/2 mile away, through extremely dense brush."
Limited facilities: Many tent camping sites near Portland have minimal amenities. At Narrows Boat Ramp, facilities are basic but functional: "There is a marina on site along side the boat ramp and a nice pavilion, playground, nature trail and restroom. The nature trail is a mile loop and has several benches along its route as well as scenic overlooks to the lake."
Seasonal differences: Spring and fall provide the most comfortable camping conditions. Summer brings higher humidity, more insects, and busier campgrounds. One camper at Smith Springs noted, "If boring and peaceful is what you want, this is the place," highlighting how some sites offer a quieter experience than others, particularly during off-peak seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Look for shallower swimming areas: Families with younger children should consider Smith Springs for its kid-friendly water access. "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," notes one reviewer.
Try short nature trails: Families can enjoy the mile-long loop trail at Narrows Boat Ramp, which features benches and lake views, making it manageable for children while still offering scenic rewards.
Consider wildlife viewing opportunities: Cook - J. Percy Priest Reservoir offers opportunities for wildlife spotting near the camping areas. Families can boat to island camping spots for a unique experience: "Boated in and camped on an island. Only drawback was the other campers on the island blaring music until 3 AM," cautions one camper, suggesting families should choose their timing carefully.
Tips from RVers
Check campground regulations: Many tent camping areas near Portland don't permit RVs or have limited RV facilities. At Laguardo, RVers should note there are no electric hookups but sanitary dump facilities are available.
Consider noise levels: RVers camping near tent sites should be mindful of generator use. At J. Percy Priest Reservoir, one camper noted the challenge of "other campers on the island blaring music until 3 AM," highlighting the importance of respecting quiet hours at shared camping areas.
