Cabin accommodations near Sherwood, Tennessee range from rustic camping cabins to deluxe rentals with full amenities. Located in the Cumberland Plateau region at elevations between 1,200-2,000 feet, the area experiences relatively mild summers compared to surrounding lowlands. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing, making heated cabin options particularly valuable from November through March.
What to do
Waterfall hikes: 5 miles from Fireside Camp + Lodge, Foster Falls offers impressive views with moderate hiking difficulty. "Foster Falls' breathtaking waterfall and hiking trails just 5 miles away" makes this Fireside Camp + Lodge a convenient base camp for waterfall enthusiasts. Fall Creek Falls is about an hour's drive for more extensive hiking.
Cave exploration: On-site tours at Raccoon Mountain Caverns provide underground adventure suitable for various experience levels. "Crystal Cave was right on site and we enjoyed the guided tour. (Advanced reservations are required.)" notes one visitor at Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground. The cave system features multiple passages and formations.
Mountain biking: Extensive trails throughout Monte Sano State Park offer technical routes for all skill levels. "Great hiking and biking rv camp ground very nice and clean bath houses" mentions one review. The park maintains dedicated biking paths separate from hiking trails for safety.
Water recreation: Multiple options at Tims Ford State Park with boat rentals available seasonally. "Water access at your campsite to swim or kayak" provides direct lake access for guests staying at lakeside sites. The park offers swimming areas with designated boundaries during summer months.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Campers appreciate the separation between sites at Cloudland Canyon. "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," according to one reviewer at Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground.
Community spaces: At Fireside Camp + Lodge, the converted barn provides a gathering spot with amenities. "Inside, you'll find comfortable couches, hang boards for climbing enthusiasts, a vintage fridge, and even a Pac-Man game for some retro fun." These shared spaces create opportunities for meeting fellow campers.
Affordable sites with views: Marion County Park offers budget-friendly options with waterfront views. "Our site was on the water and the view was awesome. I worried that there would be a lot of noise because it's so close to I-24 but there wasn't." Sites start at $20 per night with electric and water hookups.
Year-round accessibility: Most cabin facilities remain open throughout winter months with varying levels of service. "The tiny sites with electric hookup provide basic winter camping options when other facilities close for seasonal maintenance.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Peak seasons require planning months in advance for cabin rentals. At Fairview Campground — Tims Ford State Park, "We had to move twice as we couldn't book a spot for the entire weekend," indicating the challenge of securing continuous stays during busy periods.
Cabin accessibility varies: Some sites require significant walking from parking areas. "I came in late after dark but there were still plenty of spots left. Each spot has a picnic table and fire ring. There's a shed with games for hanging out, a porta potty, and a shower house with hot water," notes a camper about Fireside Camp's basic accommodations.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly by carrier and location. "I work remotely and internet was a challenge. I have phones with Verizon and T-mobile service as well as AT&T and T-Mobile hotspots. The verizon phone was the only service that got any signal at all, and it was spotty." Some campgrounds offer WiFi at common areas but not at individual sites.
Seasonal facilities: Swimming pools, some shower houses, and certain amenities close seasonally. "This area of Alabama has numerous outdoor activities. We explored DeSoto falls and went to Little River canyon. There is a canyon rim drive if you can't hike. You must spend some time in this area to explore it all. Some of the waterfalls are seasonal dependent upon rainfall."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: DeSoto State Park Campground offers structured programs for children. "They have scout activities, a Junior Ranger program, playgrounds, swimming pools, and plenty of trails to hike. I've lived here most of my life and each season offers something different." These organized activities provide educational opportunities during your stay.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "There are cool little wooden play obstacles for the kids in the campground and a huge playground 1/2 mile away inside the park," making Monte Sano State Park suitable for families with young children.
Cabin selection for families: Look for cabins near bathhouses when traveling with children. "We stayed in site 19 which was in the way back, unfortunately near a 'pond' so a few mosquitoes were about. Otherwise pretty spacious sites." Sites farther from water features may have fewer insects during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site challenges: At Manchester KOA, specific sites offer better amenities: "We were then escorted to one of their 'long' pull through sites with FHUs, site 27. What we first noticed was the large cement patio with table, chairs, bench, stand up barbecue, and fire pit. The utilities are located smartly in the middle of the pad to include an extra sewer connection near the pad's front."
Access routes matter: When traveling to mountain cabins with larger vehicles, choose approach roads carefully. "First before I get into my review, I am TOTALLY BIAS at Monte Sano SP! I LOVE this park, the only thing that could make it better is if there was a lake or attached watercourse. The hiking is moderate to extreme up and down some interesting rock formations."
Off-season advantages: Winter cabin stays offer quieter experiences and sometimes better availability. "Desoto is near and dear to my heart and will always be my favorite campground and park! The staff is amazing and there are so many activities to do inside the park!" Many RVers note the value of visiting during weekdays rather than weekends for more secluded experiences.
