Sewanee, Tennessee is surrounded by a range of established campgrounds across South Cumberland State Park and neighboring public lands. Foster Falls Campground offers a popular base for camping with tent and RV sites, while Fairview Campground at Tims Ford State Park provides cabin options and water access. The camping landscape extends into nearby state parks including Old Stone Fort Archaeological Park and Cloudland Canyon State Park in Georgia, which provide developed campgrounds with tent sites, RV hookups, and in some locations, cabin rentals or yurt accommodations. When planning your camping trip to Sewanee, be aware that many of these campgrounds showcase the area's natural beauty through access to waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.
Campgrounds in the region require advance reservations, particularly during summer and fall seasons when swimming and hiking are most popular. Most sites feature basic amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and access to bathrooms with varying levels of maintenance. "Foster Falls is right around the corner and you can even take a dip in the little waterfall pool when it isn't too hot out," noted one camper. Road access varies throughout the region, with some campgrounds easily accessible via paved roads while backcountry sites may require hiking in. Cell service can be limited in many areas, particularly at Foster Falls where reviews mention spotty coverage. The terrain features significant elevation changes, dense forests, and numerous waterfalls.
Campers consistently highlight the region's natural beauty, particularly the waterfalls and hiking opportunities. Foster Falls receives strong reviews for its proximity to climbing areas and scenic trails, though multiple visitors mention issues with bathroom cleanliness and occasional noise from nearby properties. According to one visitor, "The landscape is absolutely gorgeous and breathtaking. Foster Falls is just a short walking distance away and so beautiful. In the summertime it's a popular swimming hole." Many campgrounds feature spacious, shaded sites suitable for tent camping, while fewer offer full RV hookups. The Fiery Gizzard Trail connects several camping areas and provides access to multiple waterfalls and scenic overlooks. Several reviews note that South Cumberland State Park's dispersed layout means visitors should research specific campground locations before arrival.
$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."
"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."
$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."
$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."
$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."
"The best thing about this spot is the lake access for swimming. We stayed at site 37 and the walking trail down to the lake was right next to our site."
"There are paved paths for miles right there off the campsites. There are other trails as well not paved with but more tugged/traditional trails with bridges and cottonmouths lol be careful."
"Park at either the Alabama or the Tennessee trailhead (make sure not to park at the horse trailhead earlier on the road) and descend down into the canyon."
"Close by the creek and close to the Walls. Super peaceful and super beautiful"
"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."
$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."
GuideThis park is very well organized, clean and has gorgeous views from the trails. The bathrooms/showers are well dispersed through the park and the sites are very level. I will definitely be back!
Only warning is not a negative but if you are wanting to use Starlink you will struggle because of the tree coverage. Not a knock, just an FYI
TravelerThe staff is so friendly and helpful. The campground is quiet and well maintained. The RV sites aren't very level so ensure you have the ability to level your rig. The bathrooms are older but have great hot water and are clean.
LegendWe camped here last weekend for the first time. The area is really beautiful and the park has a little Japanese garden, which is definitely worth to visit.
We stayed at one of the primitive campsites. They have a fire pit, but no picnic table, which didn't bother us. The sites are very big and private, but unfortunately our site had some trash laying around.
The bathrooms were just a short walk away, but also, pretty dirty and some of them had no toilet paper since Saturday afternoon.
It is just a short drive to Huntsville, which is really nice and fun to explore.
ScoutGreat camping experience and location. Bathhouses a bit outdated and semi-clean. Would stay here again, especially with a water front site.
ScoutBeautiful surroundings and very quiet. Fast and easy response from owners.Clean and well maintained .I definitely recommend to everyone!!!
TravelerI was greatly deceived by the photos and descriptions online. We had site 40 and it was much much shorter than online said and the incline was insane. I would say 90% of the sites in loops B, C, and D should not be sites. Loop A has the most level sites with a lot not having shade though. Site 15 seemed to be the best in the whole park. Leveling our popup was miserable. Most campers we saw come in seemed to be the same as us. First time being there and not realizing the sites are significantly shorter than listed and shown in photos and extremely unlevel. I couldn’t even imagine a tent camper in most sites comfortably with how much of an incline and then slope you’re on. It’s a straight up hill and then it’s tilted to the side too. Sites are also extremely close together which is fine if you plan to be out or on the water a lot but it’s very cramped.
Bathrooms in loop B were the largest and cleaned daily. Bathrooms were great with the exception of the doors being super small but not an issue really. I’m 6ft and it was just funny seeing over everything.
Lake is BEAUTIFUL. So many areas to swim and great trails. Good place for pets.
One host in the entire park and we were lucky to be next to them and listen to their dog park and cry all day and night as they never let him in. Their site is right there when you go in and just trashed with all kinds of stuff. Feels more like a trailer park than state park. Never once saw the hosts and the camp store/office was closed every day we were there (we were there for a week Sunday to Sunday) Our site had quite a bit of trash when we got there. I’m shocked how the bathrooms were kept so clean but sites were not
They have check in listed at 4pm but every day new campers were there far before 4 which isn’t a problem but helps to know you can really get there anytime.
Overall the area is amazing with so much to do for everyone. Fishing, hiking, swimming, plenty to do all around. I would come back only for loop A and site 15. Maybe some others in loop A. Unless you have a camper van that you are fine being tilted, I would avoid all loops besides A. We saw a lot of people get there and then leave when they couldn’t park or level their site and there weren’t other options any better for them
Cell service was great. T-Mobile hotspot was amazing for me to work remote
GuideDecent space between camps. Well priced. Stayed overnight on our way from Missouri to Atlanta. Good place to take a walk before hitting the road again. It's beautiful and wooded. Quiet and lots of morning birds. No gate or code to enter. Clean bathrooms & showers.
ScoutNothing crazy, scenic but tricky drive in here. Use the coordinates to find it, Apple Maps will send you to the other side and add a 30/40 min drive. The camping area had 1 shared restroom/porta potty type deal. The area is pretty flat ground with about 10 good spots to tent/small vehicle camp. Came on a Tuesday evening to about half the site being used. There’s signs to get here once you get close.
ScoutWe camped at Howland's Hideout for two nights in our 5th wheel (water & electric hook-up plus they have a sewer dump).
So conveniently located (approx. 3 miles) from Fall Creek Falls State Park but much less noise and more relaxed.
The hosts (Kurt and Maria) went above and beyond to be sure we had everything we needed and so enjoyed getting to know them.
Their two dogs (Star & Sassy) were very friendly and our dog loved playing with them.
If you are looking for a relaxing spot to camp with great hosts, you should definitely give this place a try. We can't wait to go back.
Arnold & Debra Puckett
South Cumberland State Park offers dispersed camping options near Sewanee, Tennessee at elevations ranging from 800 to 1,900 feet. The region features significant temperature variations with summer highs regularly reaching 85-90°F and winter overnight lows frequently dropping below freezing. Camping areas are positioned throughout the 30,845-acre state park with hiking distances to primitive sites varying from 0.5 to 4 miles.
Waterfall exploration: 3.1-mile hike to the Walls of Jericho primitive campsite provides access to multiple cascades. "When you reach the bottom of the trail and cross a river there are several campgrounds that you can set up at. After getting settled keep following the trail back into the canyon and you will get to the first waterfall/pool. Don't stop there though cause the real view is the waterfall at the back of the canyon that takes a little scrambling to get to," notes a visitor to Walls of Jericho - Clark Cemetery Backcountry Campsite.
Rock climbing: Easy access to climbing areas from several campgrounds. "Camping 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)," reports a visitor to Foster Falls Campground.
Disc golf: Full course available at Bigfoot Adventure RV Park. "Zip lining, small catch & release pond, biking, hiking, & cliff views available," mentions one camper, with another noting they're "adding things… disc golf maybe. Great park with clean facilities."
Spacious camping pads: Several campgrounds offer well-designed sites. "The sites are level and large enough to accommodate many tents. There are also many trees that would be suitable for hammock camping. You can choose from a shaded space to a sunny space depending on which side of the site you set up on," explains a visitor to Walls of Jericho - Clark Cemetery Backcountry Campsite.
Lakefront sites: Water access directly from campsites at Tims Ford State Park. "Great campground on the water and spacious sites. Water access at your campsite to swim or kayak. Nice bathhouse, clean facilities. Will definitely be back!" shares a visitor to Fairview Campground — Tims Ford State Park.
Quiet, dark skies: Several campgrounds maintain minimal light pollution. "We had a good view of the stars and it was very dark looking into the forest behind us at night," notes a visitor to Foster Falls Campground.
Bathroom conditions vary significantly: Some campgrounds have limited facilities. "The women's bathroom has 2 stalls and 1 shower, there were no lines anytime we were there," reports a Foster Falls visitor, while another notes "Facilities were not the most maintained but like state park for its location."
Summer swimming: Several waterfalls offer swimming holes during warmer months. "We like to go when it's warm enough to swim in the waterfall," shares a Foster Falls camper, with water temperatures typically reaching the high 60s by late May.
Primitive sites require preparation: Many backcountry sites have minimal facilities. "This is backcountry camping so plan appropriately (no bathroom, pack it in- pack is out). We found no cell phone service with Verizon at this site. Water can be sourced from Turkey Creek if it is flowing, but should be treated/filtered," advises a visitor to Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park.
Accessible waterfall hikes: Several trails suitable for younger hikers. "We camped at the Father Adamz campground... It was breathtaking. You can hear the river at night when all is quiet," reports a Foster Falls visitor.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences. "This park is known for its archeology, but don't miss the beautiful waterfalls. The restrooms could use some updating, but are adequate. I'm always happy when I can get a warm shower. I was there in October when the leaves were changing. Beautiful! Be sure to enjoy the museum and the hiking trails," recommends a visitor to Old Stone Fort.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "It's not a huge campground so you may want to reserve early," advises a Fairview Campground visitor, while another notes, "The staff was awesome. They came by and treated us, offered to help us get backed in. Brought firewood and just came by to say hi."
Site selection considerations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. "Sites are not set up for large campers," notes a visitor to Tims Ford State Park Main Campground, while another mentions, "We are in a 35' 5th Wheel. Most sites easy access, some sites maybe tight for bigger Rigs."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited. "Some sites have Full Hook-up, 50 amp. (Sewer not available on water sites)," explains a Fairview Campground visitor, providing essential information for planning an RV stay.
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have narrow access roads. "Trying to get into campground during afternoon hours maybe challenging to bigger RV units," cautions a Foster Falls visitor, suggesting arrival during less busy morning hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find camping spots near Sewanee, TN?
Sewanee's surrounding area offers diverse camping options. Tims Ford State Park Main Campground near Winchester provides drive-in sites with toilets and reservable spots. For a unique experience, Foster Falls Campground near Jasper offers beautiful scenery with hiking access and water availability. Other nearby options include Fairview Campground at Tims Ford for lakeside camping and Bigfoot Adventure RV Park near Tracy City for those needing full hookups. Within driving distance, you'll find Marion County Park and several sites within South Cumberland State Park that provide access to Sewanee's natural attractions.
What amenities are available at Sewanee camping areas?
Camping areas around Sewanee offer varying amenities to suit different needs. Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park provides a dense, lowland setting with helpful staff and comfortable facilities. For those seeking waterfront options, Harrison Bay State Park Campground offers multiple camping loops with RV and tent sites, along with marina access, playgrounds, and bicycle paths. Many campgrounds in the region provide basic amenities like water hookups, fire pits, and restrooms, while others offer more rustic experiences. Municipal parks like Stevenson typically provide water and electrical hookups but may lack designated fire rings or picnic tables.
When is the best time of year to go camping in Sewanee?
Spring and fall offer the most pleasant camping conditions near Sewanee. Fireside Camp + Lodge, nestled in Tennessee's Sequatchie Mountain, is particularly beautiful during these seasons with comfortable temperatures and lush scenery. Rock Island State Park Campground showcases dramatic waterfalls and vibrant forests, especially spectacular in autumn when fall colors emerge. Summer camping is possible but prepare for heat and humidity with potential thunderstorms. Winters are generally mild but can be unpredictable with occasional snow or ice, making spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) ideal for enjoying Sewanee's natural beauty with fewer weather concerns.
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