Camping near Sewanee, Tennessee offers experiences from primitive backcountry sites to developed campgrounds with amenities. The Cumberland Plateau region sits at elevations around 1,800-2,000 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowlands. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing, with occasional snowfall between December and February.
What to do
Hiking waterfalls trails: Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park features multiple waterfalls along Duck River with trails rated mild to moderate. "Beautiful water falls inside the park is a stunning. The hiking trails are well maintained so hiking to the three waterfall's inside the park is a mild hike," notes Michael P. at Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park.
Mountain biking: Tracy City offers dedicated biking paths with varying difficulty levels. "Disc golf maybe. Great park with clean facilities," mentions Frank A. about Bigfoot Adventure RV park & Campground, which provides access to nearby trails.
Backcountry exploration: Savage Gulf State Park provides primitive camping opportunities with scenic overlooks. A camper describes, "The Alum Gap campground in Savage Gulf State Natural Area was a perfect destination for a first-time backpacker. The trail is easy-moderate, mostly flat with only a few inclines," making it accessible for beginners at Alum Gap Campground.
Creek swimming: Several campgrounds offer natural swimming opportunities in creeks and waterfalls. "If you're adventurous it's definitely worth a quick plunge," reports Tyler J. about the 25-30 foot waterfall at Alum Gap, providing a refreshing break from summer heat.
What campers like
Private bathrooms: The Falls at Sewanee Creek earns praise for its amenities despite the rustic setting. "This was basically luxury camping for our crew. Grant and Becky provided so much more than expected!" shares Ashley D. at The Falls at Sewanee Creek, the only exclusively glamping destination close to Sewanee, Tennessee.
Spacious sites: Cloudland Canyon offers well-separated camping areas. "The West Rim camping loop has a total of 48 tent/RV sites with 30 or 50A hookups, water, gravel tent pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. This loop is far more wooded and offers a greater variety of site size and privacy," explains Stephanie J. at Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds feature regular deer sightings and bird watching opportunities. Marion County Park campers report seeing "geese and cranes" along the water, adding natural interest to the camping experience.
Site variety: Fall Creek Falls accommodates different camping preferences. "Campground A & B are great for families with kids. C&D are more quiet. Pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out," advises Richard F. about site selection.
What you should know
Site conditions: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring additional equipment. At Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground, a visitor warns to "Pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out."
Reservation timing: Many sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "It's not a huge campground so you may want to reserve early," advises Doug H. about Fairview Campground, particularly for premium waterfront sites.
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience highway noise. At The Broken Banjo (formerly Manchester KOA), a reviewer notes, "This park is located in Manchester, TN right next to I-24, so if you are in the pull-throughs on the front row, you will hear the traffic."
Water levels: Waterfall flow varies seasonally. "Waterfalls were dry, which was disappointing but the hike to them from the West Rim Trail was quite pretty," reports Michelle D., highlighting that late summer often brings reduced water flow.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several parks offer both natural and developed swimming areas. "Can't swim in lake but you can kayak. Arrived in the dark, do not recommend as there are not much lighting to see especially if the sites is tight with others," shares Richard F. about Fall Creek Falls.
Playground access: Marion County Park provides family-friendly facilities. "There are 3 sections to this campground... Water and electric for 20. a night with a 10% senior discount," notes Cori H., adding it has "swimming, soccer, baseball, boating, disc golf, para course all right here."
Kid-friendly trails: Many parks feature shorter, accessible hiking options. "Most trails are moderate to strenuous because of elevation gain and roots/rocks. The Cave tour is a must, but prepare to get dirty," advises G F. about Cloudland Canyon, suggesting parents consider trail difficulty when planning with children.
Budget considerations: State parks often offer the best value for families. Campsite costs range from $20-35 per night for most basic sites, with premium locations and hookups commanding higher prices.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through accessibility: The Broken Banjo offers easy access sites. "Site 27 was the easiest pull through we've ever had as its angled straight in from the street, no turns or maneuvering to center the rig," explains MickandKarla W., noting the convenience for larger vehicles.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require extra equipment for RV stabilization. "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.)," reports Becky S. about Fairview Campground.
Hookup availability: When glamping close to Sewanee, Tennessee, hookup options vary by campground. "Very open and not hard to get RV into spots. Great experience for kids. Wonderful views and lots of open space to play in fields and walk," says Kayla L. about Bigfoot Adventure RV park, which offers full hookups.
