Tent camping in Sherwood, Tennessee sits within the rugged Cumberland Plateau at elevations ranging from 1,700 to 2,000 feet. The area experiences moderate temperatures from spring through fall, with summer highs typically in the 80s and cool evenings in the 60s. Water availability varies significantly across campgrounds, with several requiring visitors to carry in their own supplies or filter from natural sources.
What to do
Hiking to hidden swimming holes: Foster Falls Campground provides excellent access to secluded swimming spots. "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. Beautiful spot any time of year but we like to go when it's warm enough to swim in the waterfall," notes Kelly M.
Rock climbing adventures: The sandstone cliffs near Foster Falls Campground attract climbers of all skill levels. "You can't beat this area for great non-glamorous camping. It gives you just what you need- a spot to set up a tent and so many nearby adventures that you really don't need to be there except to sleep and refuel," shares DrDavid P.
Waterfall exploration: The 0.5-mile hike from Father Adamz Campground leads to impressive cascades. "The short hike down to the base of the waterfall is fairly steep and very rocky, but well worth the effort!" mentions Jeff C. Water levels vary seasonally, with spring offering the most dramatic flows after rainfall.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Foster Falls offers generous camping areas with natural buffers. "The outer loop sites have more underbrush between them providing a buffer. Sites 17-26 all have relative privacy from each other, but are smaller sites in general, although many of them have specified tent pads," explains Stephanie J.
Easy backcountry introduction: Stone Door Campground provides an accessible primitive experience. "This campsite is great for novice primitive campers. The campsites are secluded, but very close to the parking lot. There is an outhouse and drinking water close to the campsites. Each site has a fire ring and plenty of space," reports Aaron S.
Multi-day hiking connectivity: The network of trails connects various tent camping areas. "We've camped there three times and it can get loud at night if the other campers don't follow the quiet times. You'll want to check in with the Rangers at Stone Door before you head out," advises Charles M. about Alum Gap Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal bug considerations: Bug activity increases near facilities during summer months. "The sites closest to the bathrooms all had more bugs while we were there in August," notes Stephanie J. Midweek camping typically means fewer neighbors at Foster Falls.
Water access challenges: Water sources require planning at most Sherwood tent sites. "Depending on recent rainfall, you might need to collect water back at the Greeter Falls area," mentions Asher K. about Alum Gap. Carrying a water filtration system is essential for backcountry camping near Sherwood.
Weekend availability limitations: Popular tent sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "Book ahead of time as campsites fill up quickly on weekends!" cautions Aaron S. Reservations for Stone Door should be made 2-3 months in advance for summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly backpacking: Hurricane Creek Backcountry Campsite offers accessible wilderness camping. "This is a great spot to camp if you are wanting to do some easy backpacking in Alabama. It is quiet and right on Hurricane creek on the way to Walls of Jericho," says Hannah C.
Kid-appropriate hiking distances: Many trails accommodate younger hikers. "Our 2 and 5 year old walked from our campsite down to the falls and back up easily, and enjoyed having a trail that led to the falls overlook for nightly post-dinner walks," shares Stephanie J.
Educational geology exposure: The unique rock formations provide natural science lessons. "The trail starts right at this campsite which was perfect since we could just take day packs and leave most of our gear set up. We then ended the day hiking the last section to go visit the Walls of Jericho and see the falls," explains Asher K.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most campgrounds near Sherwood prioritize tent camping with few RV amenities. "Foster Falls Campground has 26 sites, most of which are very large and spacious. As is common in loop campgrounds, the sites in the center of the loop--especially sites 1-13--are very open, with little privacy between sites," notes Stephanie J. about Whippoorwill Woods Nature Retreat, one of the few locations that accepts small RVs.
Parking constraints: Vehicle size limits restrict larger RVs. "Kristine was very communicative and hospitable. She provided plenty of water complimentary along with a s'mores gift bag. There was even a very clean local porta potty," mentions Katie about the amenities that help offset the lack of RV hookups.
Alternative nearby locations: Consider nearby state parks for full RV services. Tim's Ford State Park offers RV camping with hookups about 30 miles from Sherwood, while maintaining access to similar outdoor recreation opportunities.
