Monteagle, Tennessee serves as a gateway to several established campgrounds nestled within the Cumberland Plateau region. South Cumberland State Park offers multiple camping areas, including Foster Falls Campground with tent and RV sites, while nearby Cloudland Canyon State Park provides additional options with cabins, yurts, and glamping accommodations. The area features a mix of drive-in campgrounds with amenities like showers and flush toilets, alongside more primitive backcountry sites accessible via hiking trails. Marion County Park and Tims Ford State Park expand the camping possibilities with waterfront locations suitable for both tent and RV camping, with several locations offering year-round accessibility.
Many campgrounds in the Monteagle area require advance reservations, particularly during peak seasons from spring through fall. Most developed sites provide basic amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and access to drinking water, though hookup availability varies significantly between locations. Trails connecting to Foster Falls and other natural features are typically accessible year-round, though winter can bring challenging conditions at higher elevations. Cell service is generally available at developed campgrounds but becomes spotty in more remote areas of South Cumberland State Park. A visitor noted, "South Cumberland state park is actually spread out over several counties. We went to a smaller section with walk-in only camping. Sites are great and easy walk in to and the hiking trails and falls are so worth it."
Proximity to waterfalls represents a major draw for campers throughout the region. Foster Falls Campground provides easy access to its namesake waterfall via a short trail, making it particularly popular among rock climbers and hikers exploring the Fiery Gizzard Trail. Several campers mentioned the benefit of sites that allow swimming in waterfall pools during warmer months. While developed campgrounds offer convenience with amenities like hot showers and flush toilets, more secluded experiences can be found at walk-in sites. According to one review, "The campground is great for climbers looking to get an early start on all the routes nearby. It's not a lot of privacy since all the sites are fairly close together and the vegetation is pretty thin, but it has all the regular amenities."
$18 - $21 / night
"Foster Falls is located at one end of the Fiery Gizzard Trail, one of the most beautiful trails in Tennessee, possibly the country!"
"We used two cars and parked one at our campsite here, and brought one to the beginning of the Fiery Gizzard Trail."
$10 - $270 / night
"Campground Review:East Rim Campground Pro’s: 1-Handicap Accessible, there is a cabin which is also HDA. 2- If your visiting for a get together your right next to the day use area and there is a picnic"
"We stopped in for a few hours on our drive home from Tennessee. We drove through the campgrounds to scout out our site."
$21 / night
"Foster Falls Climbers Loop Trail is right at the entrance of the campground, definitely recommend hiking this trail. You’ll hike all around the falls getting beautiful views from the top and bottom."
"Bathhouse is a short walk from all the sites. Rangers there were helpful. Leaves are everywhere and we did see a few snakes but nothing we don’t expect from the great outdoors."
"Some really nice sites on lake and shaded. Inner sites are nice as well and have sewer. Good space between sites. 30 and 50 amp. The old section that was for yearly rental is gone."
"Gravel drives & pads with water & electric at sites. Our site #28 had an exceptional view out the kitchen window & from the pinic table of the lake. Newer shower house centrally located."
$45 - $60 / night
"Close to Mount Eagle. Large pull thru site with full hookups. Live music,zip lines & frizby golf. Beautiful farm with waterfalls& lots of nearby hiking trails."
"Clean, great walking trails, fun zip lines. Clean bath house only one shower but it wasn't a problem getting in. Needs a bench in bathroom."
$10 / night
"Nestled in Tennessee’s Sequatchie Mountain, this tranquil campsite on a private estate’s grassy field is great for nature enthusiasts."
"Wide open spaces and access to amenities. The Verizon service here is great and the hosts have Wi-Fi. Close to town for your needs and 30 minutes away from Lookout mountain and those attractions."
"Try to get a campsite on the lakeside, because the view is very nice and it makes it easy to get your boat in the water. They advertise a beach but we never found one."
"Tent camping along the edge of the river. Fire pits or grills, picnic tables, clean bathroom, and hot showers. If you are a light sleeper, the traffic noise from the highway might be disturbing."
$20 - $30 / night
"Recycling bins were also located near the well lit bathrooms."
"The campground itself borders the duck river and is absolutely stunning. The hiking trails are well maintained so hiking to the three waterfall's inside the park is a mild hike."
"The hiking trails are well maintained and the scenery is great. The short hike down to the base of the waterfall is fairly steep and very rocky, but well worth the effort!"
$8 - $32 / night
"Fall creek falls is one of the best recreational areas in Tennessee. The park is very large and has so much to do. The falls are amazing, and it’s a moderate hike down to the base."
"Tons to do at one of Tennessee’s top state parks."
ScoutCamp Towhee is the perfect peaceful getaway near Fall Creek Falls! Spacious RV sites with full hookups, plenty of room to relax, and a quiet, well-maintained property make it ideal for a stress-free stay. Highly recommend!
GuideSmall gravel parking area off of what appears to be a drive. Nice open field to possibly setup in. Didn’t drive truck on grass. It was cut and well maintained. Large burn pile and old rv on site. Good place to over night. I visited during the day and was not disturbed.
GuideYou take a sometimes single lane road to get there. Very windy at points. There is a parking lot to hold 4+ cars. You walk 20’ on trail to first campsite. Nice wooded area with a trail to the water. There are 5 sites with fire pits. There is one private site past the marked site if you keep going you will find a large level gravel lot with a single fire pit that would be much better for van or truck camping. Past this point it turns back into residential.
GuideCampground is primitive with a clean vault toilet. There are approx 12 campsites with fire pits. Across the main gravel road is a large spot for off-roading / side by side parking. Main gravel road to campground is smooth no ruts. Campground should accommodate 24’ class b or so. My 18’ truck had lots of room and space for awning.
ScoutRiverchase RV Park in Scottsboro, AL offers spacious lots just minutes from the Tennessee River, known for great fishing. Enjoy a peaceful, friendly atmosphere close to the city— perfect for both short stays and long-term RV living.
TravelerI’m giving this place a 5/5 starts for my first experience primitive camping on my own with some friends. We were the first ones there so we had the leisure of picking which site we wanted. The designated camping area was recently scorched, so ground critters/excessive shrubbage was minimal. Was easy to find and collect firewood.
The site we chose has trash/metal in the fire pit and a hallow tree stump was used for a trash can. Don’t be those people. We cleaned up the campsite and made it our own. We had neighbors show up round 9pm, but they were friendly, quiet, and kept to themselves. The area was peaceful and I got some pretty stunning pics. It was truly a great camping experience. I did see a non-venomous rat snake a little ways away from the main camp area, so just watch your step.
We hiked at Cloudland the next day and it was so packed (we went camping literally the first day of Spring), so if you want a more relaxed, secluded camping vibe close to Cloudland, this is your spot. Highly recommend getting a Georgia land pass before camping here ($30 and easy to get online).
TravelerStayed at a standard electric site and it was great. We tent camped with our pup and the site was plenty spacious enough to have all of our gear out plus room for the pup to run. All trails are very well maintained and have beautiful views. Only thing I would suggest is if you want some peace and quiet choose the west rim for camping. East rim in directly on the main road and sites are super close together.
ScoutQuick stop on our drive home. Made the reservation the night before, they called to confirm the next day. Nice folks both on the phone and in person! Check in was quick and easy, and you are escorted to your site by a sweet guy on a golf cart. Hook ups are close and they offer free WiFi and cable hookup.
GuideThe staff could not be more friendly and helpful. The park itself is beautiful and the West campground is well maintained and the shower rooms were in excellent shape. I would guess this part fills up very fast in peak season. We are here on a Monday night in early March and most sites are taken.
Camping spots near Monteagle, Tennessee offer diverse terrain experiences from plateau-top locations to waterside settings. The Cumberland Plateau region ranges in elevation from 1,500 to 1,900 feet, creating temperature variations that can be 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands. Campground facilities vary significantly in their water access, with some locations requiring campers to filter water from natural sources during drier months.
Hiking to hidden waterfalls: At Foster Falls Campground, campers can access multiple waterfall trails. "Hiking was easy and bathrooms were clean. Really beautiful scenery on somewhat strenuous hikes to waterfalls, some good sport climbing, and a few trails that will take you really high up so you can look down at the beautiful green canopy (or orange if it's fall)," notes Kelly M.
Rock climbing opportunities: The sandstone cliffs near Sequatchie provide excellent climbing routes. "Showers and quiet. No RV hookups or generators, great for real camping. Walkable to the plethora of climbing," explains Jay F. about Foster Falls, which attracts climbers from across the Southeast.
Swimming in waterfall pools: Natural swimming areas become popular during summer months. "Beautiful spot any time of year but we like to go when it's warm enough to swim in the waterfall," shares Kelly M. Swimming holes below the falls offer refreshing alternatives to traditional swimming areas.
Historical exploration: Visit Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park to examine prehistoric Native American ceremonial sites. "Duck River flows through the area with several waterfall breaks along its course. It's not hard to imagine why the Native Americans considered this area spiritually significant. Their history is written along the trail," writes Shelly S.
Primitive camping with conveniences: Many campers appreciate Fireside Camp + Lodge for its balance of rustic setting with essential amenities. "The campsites are set up in a circle around the edge of a spacious field along the tree line. While they are relatively basic, they offer everything you need for a comfortable stay. We particularly enjoyed the open field, which allowed us to stargaze at night under the clear skies," notes Asher K.
Community gathering spaces: Several campgrounds feature shared common areas. "One standout feature is the creative use of an old barn, which has been transformed into a hangout space. Inside, you'll find comfortable couches, hang boards for climbing enthusiasts, a vintage fridge, and even a Pac-Man game for some retro fun," reports Asher K. about Fireside Camp + Lodge.
Well-spaced campsites: Campers frequently mention appreciating the privacy between sites. "I really appreciate that the sites aren't on top of each other. There is enough room for a small camper or flat gravel area for tents. Picnic tables and fire rings at each site," writes Shana D. about Foster Falls Campground.
Direct water access: Marion County Park offers waterfront camping. "We stopped here for a night and made reservations on the fly. We called at 6:30pm and were told there would be a list of available spots and a drop box for fees. We got in the spot pretty easily and woke up to the most gorgeous view over the water!" shares Nicole.
Varying bathroom facilities: Quality of facilities differs significantly between campgrounds. "The bath houses were horrible. The one near us had one toilet and one shower with little curtains across them. The toilet was clean but no way would I use the shower," notes Alicia B. about Marion County Park. Always check recent reviews for current bathroom conditions.
Noise levels: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads or facilities. "There is a farm nearby with a rooster that spent the better part of the day crowing, which can be distracting when you have a toddler you are trying to get to sleep, and got very repetitive for the adults as well. We could also hear 18 wheelers both nights we were there during the night," reports Stephanie J.
Seasonal waterfall conditions: Water flow varies dramatically by season. "Waterfalls were weak but we knew this going in July but still great views. Our next trip here will be in the fall," notes Richard F. about Cloudland Canyon State Park.
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "Going to be amazing. Gave it 4 stars because we had to move a couple of times. The electricity didn't work where we wound up camping but didn't want to move anymore," explains Arwen about Bigfoot Adventure RV park & Campground.
Look for walk-in sites: For a quieter family experience, consider walk-in camping areas. "Love the tent-only serenity of the walk-in sites. There is a separate parking lot at the back of the park for the walk-in sites, which are a short distance away (easy to haul your gear). The sites have a tent pad, picnic table and fire ring, and lots of privacy as the sites are very far from each other," recommends Abby M. at Cloudland Canyon.
Check trail difficulty levels: Assess hiking trail difficulty before heading out with children. "My grandson and I spent 23-25 June camping at Father Adamz campground. The hike in is pretty steep in parts and very rocky. Definitely a good workout! The hiking trails are well maintained and the scenery is great," shares Jeff C. about Father Adamz Campground.
Consider swimming options: Many families appreciate natural swimming areas during warmer months. "My family and I stayed at father Adams over Easter and it was perfect. The weather was very nice and the sites are well maintained. It's also only about a half mile down to a swimming hole and water fall perfect for swimming in the summer," notes Aidan G.
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Some families prefer developed facilities. "The campground here is smaller, and less private than the west rim loop, offering 24 tent/RV sites that have 30A electrical hookup, gravel tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings, along with a bathhouse and playground," explains Stephanie J. about Cloudland Canyon.
Check site leveling needs: Many campgrounds in the area have uneven terrain. "Pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out," advises Richard F. about Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground.
Consider drive accessibility: Access roads can be challenging for larger RVs. "Trying to get into campground during afternoon hours maybe challenging to bigger RV units. Foster Falls parking does get full, can overflow towards campground even though it says registered campers. We had a pop up so we were able to pull thru at out site #9," explains Traci C.
Select campgrounds with appropriate hookups: Verify available utilities before booking. "We are in a 35' 5th Wheel. Most sites easy access, some sites maybe tight for bigger Rigs. Some sites have Full Hook-up, 50 amp. (Sewer not available on water sites.)," notes Becky S. about Fairview Campground.
Look for pull-through options: Some campers prefer easier access sites. "The spots are very spacious and very easily accessible," shares Robert M. about Marion County Park's pull-through spots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent an RV in Monteagle, Tennessee for a camping trip?
While Monteagle itself has limited RV rental options, several nearby campgrounds accommodate RVs for those bringing or renting one. Harrison Bay State Park Campground offers three loops specifically for RVs, located about 30 minutes from Chattanooga on the Chickamauga Reservoir. Bigfoot Adventure RV park & Campground near Tracy City is another big-rig-friendly option. For RV rentals, check with dealerships in Chattanooga or Nashville, or use online RV rental platforms that offer peer-to-peer rentals with delivery options to your campsite. Most Monteagle area campgrounds require reservations for RV sites, especially during peak seasons.
What camping options are available in Monteagle, Tennessee?
Monteagle offers diverse camping experiences in the scenic Cumberland Plateau. Grundy Forest provides a quiet, smaller campground connected to the Fiery Gizzard Trail and South Cumberland State Park. For backpackers, Savage Falls Campground — Savage Gulf State Park near Bersheba Springs offers excellent backcountry sites. Additional options include Foster Falls Campground with drive-in and hike-in access, and Father Adamz Campground in South Cumberland State Park. For those seeking unique accommodations, yurt camping at Ray of Hope Guest Ranch offers beautiful hillside views of the Tennessee night sky. Most campgrounds in the area feature basic amenities like water and toilets, with several being reservable in advance.
What hiking trails are available near Monteagle camping areas?
The Monteagle area boasts exceptional hiking opportunities throughout the Cumberland Plateau. Rock Island State Park features beautiful forest trails with varying difficulty levels and dramatic waterfalls. At Cloudland Canyon State Park, you'll find accessible trails with spectacular canyon views. The Fiery Gizzard Trail connects Grundy Forest and South Cumberland State Park, offering challenging terrain through privately owned sections. Stone Door Trail in Savage Gulf provides a paved path manageable for all ages with stunning plateau views. For climbers, Denny Cove near Foster Falls features moderate hiking along popular rock faces. Additional notable hikes include the waterfall loops at Old Stone Fort Archaeological Park and Foster Falls, both providing relatively accessible yet rewarding outdoor experiences.
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