Rickman, Tennessee sits on the northeastern edge of the Cumberland Plateau at approximately 1,500 feet elevation. The region features distinct limestone formations, creating unique camping environments with natural shelters and rock outcroppings throughout the area. During summer months, temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, while spring and fall can bring significant temperature swings between day and night.
What to do
Swimming in natural areas: At Lillydale Campground, several sites back directly to Dale Hollow Lake with designated swimming areas. According to a visitor, "The lake was literally steps away from our door, and it was a no wake zone... I felt completely comfortable with my kids swimming just off-shore next to our site."
Hiking to waterfalls: Rock Island State Park maintains multiple trails leading to cascades and falls. One camper noted, "Great hikes and random places to jump into the water." The park's most popular trail leads to Twin Falls, about 10-15 minutes from the main camping area.
Fishing in stocked waters: Near Dale Hollow Damsite Campground, the Obey River is regularly stocked with trout. A visitor shared, "Campground parallels the Obey River. Plenty of fish opportunities from boat, kayak, wading and shoreline." The fish hatchery next to the campground ensures consistent stocking throughout warm months.
Paddling on calm lakes: Private lakes offer quieter paddling experiences than larger public waterways. A camper at Holpps Pine Ridge Lake Campground reported, "The lake is a nice sized lake, large enough for boats and jet ski's, but calm enough for kayaks and paddle boards. You can get on a float and relax, swim, fish, whatever you want and the water is calm and clear."
What campers like
Platform camping setups: Edgar Evins State Park features unique wooden deck camping platforms built into hillsides. A camper explained, "The sites are all elevated platforms due to the steep slope to the lake, which we had not encountered before, but are very widely spaced." These platforms accommodate both tents and smaller RVs.
Private lake access: Holpps Pine Ridge Lake Campground offers direct lake access with less boat traffic than public waterways. A visitor mentioned, "This campground wasn't listed on The Dyrt, and was even hard to find in a Google search, so I wasn't sure what to expect, but the place is amazing! A private, family owned lake, which was built by the family in the 50's or 60's."
Island tent camping: Tent campers seeking seclusion can utilize the island camping area at Lillydale. A camper shared, "We stayed on the island (walk in spot) and it was quiet and had beautiful views right on the water. There are also toilets and water available on the island if needed." The island requires using provided carts to transport gear from the parking area.
Hiking variety: Fall Creek Falls State Park provides trails ranging from beginner-friendly paths to more challenging routes. A visitor noted, "One of the best hiking parks I've ever been to. Miles and miles of trails; short, long, loops, overnights. This place has it all."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds in the region have limited connectivity. At Lillydale Campground, one visitor reported, "There was no wifi or cable/TV connection and we had zero cell phone coverage (our carrier is T-Mobile). However, lack of television or ability to surf the web/social media really didn't bother us much."
Summer crowds: Popular glamping sites near Rickman book quickly during peak summer months. Fall Creek Falls State Park glamping accommodations often fill 3-4 months in advance for summer weekends according to visitor reports.
Campsite spacing: Site proximity varies dramatically between campgrounds. One camper at Fall Creek Falls warned, "The camp slots on area C are so close to one another that most people couldn't use their fire pits for fear of burning their own tent, or their neighbor's."
Seasonal considerations: Several primitive glamping options in the Rickman area close from November through March. A camper at Deep Valley Campground mentioned, "Very friendly staff. Nice and quiet. 30 amp service only," noting the campground operates from April 1 to November 1.
Tips for camping with families
Look for water-based activities: Cumberland Mountain State Park offers kayak and paddle boat rentals for families. A visitor shared, "Great campground with outstanding facilities. The overlook has a 'Wow' view. Very quiet despite being not far from the main road."
Consider private campgrounds: Family-owned operations often provide additional amenities for children. At Holpps Pine Ridge Lake, a camper noted, "They have a playground for children, and a roped off swimming area, although we swam near our campsite. They have 2 bathhouses, they are basic block buildings, but the water is warm, and they are relatively clean."
Check campground layout: At Belle Ridge Retreat, one family reported, "The cabins were spaced really nicely... What really shined about this campground was the woodsy landscape - the sandy playground (though it was older and the volleyball net was down), the fishing lake, and the really cool swimming lake."
Pack for temperature changes: The Cumberland Plateau experiences significant temperature fluctuations, particularly in spring and fall. Glamping accommodations near Rickman typically provide heating but may have limited cooling options during summer heat waves.
Tips from RVers
Platform sites require preparation: At Edgar Evins State Park, RVers must adjust to elevated camping platforms. One RVer mentioned, "Parking sites are on wooden platforms which was fine for our Winnebago Revel, but a bit weird for my daughter who was sleeping in a tent, but it all worked out fine."
Navigating campground roads: Several campgrounds have narrow, winding access roads. A visitor to Edgar Evins advised, "Be wary of the speed bumps throughout the campground, they are closely spaced and rather abrupt, take them very slowly."
Dump station availability: When glamping in Rickman with an RV, plan dump station visits strategically. At Belle Ridge Retreat, a camper observed, "Upgraded dump station all asphalt with 6 dumps," noting the improved facilities compared to other area campgrounds.
Reservation timing: For RV glamping during peak seasons, book well in advance. A Cumberland Mountain State Park visitor suggested, "Reservations needed during peak times. Great place to visit with large pool, canoe and paddle boat rentals. Campground has 5 loops and many nice sites although some are not level but they have worked on many of them."
