Signal Mountain offers diverse camping experiences beyond luxury glamping, with options ranging from rustic backcountry sites to developed campgrounds with full amenities. Located on the Cumberland Plateau at elevations around 2,000 feet, the area provides cooler summer temperatures than surrounding lowlands. Camping near Signal Mountain allows access to both Tennessee River activities and mountain hiking trails within a 30-minute drive.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Fall Creek Falls State Park features numerous waterfall trails for all skill levels. "So many trails, so little time. Miles and miles of trails; short, long, loops, overnights. This place has it all. Make sure you do three things while you're there: hike to the bottom of the big waterfall (Fall Creek Falls), swim in the cascades next to the nature center, and stand on the edge of the bluff at Buzzard's Roost," recommends Myke C. from Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground.
Water recreation: The Tennessee River provides excellent fishing and boating opportunities close to many campgrounds. At Skull Island, campers enjoy waterfront sites with direct water access. "Nothing like waking up to see the beautiful water all around you. The staff are very friendly and the sites are well maintained," shares Edna at Skull Island.
Rock climbing: Tennessee Wall Camp serves as a base for climbers visiting the area's famous rock faces. "Great for hammocks and tents," notes Brian W., highlighting the camp's popularity among outdoor enthusiasts seeking proximity to climbing routes.
What campers like
River access: Chester Frost Park offers waterfront camping with convenient boat access. "One of the best places to be able to camp and boat. We were at Chester Frost for July 4th. Love staying on the lake front and watching the sun set," shares Doug H. at Chester Frost Park.
Privacy between sites: The West Rim camping loop at Cloudland Canyon provides a secluded experience despite being a developed campground. "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, and has an extremely quiet and peaceful vibe to it," explains Stephanie J. at Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground.
Seasonal activities: Campgrounds in the area offer different experiences throughout the year. "Our next trip here will be in the fall," mentions Richard F., who visited Cloudland Canyon during summer but plans to return to experience the autumn colors.
What you should know
Site reservations: Many popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "You can not make reservations for the camping sites, it's first come. I do like this because some campgrounds are hard to get in because some campers are able to reserve all the prime dates before others. So it's nice to have a place we know we can get a spot if we want to camp for the weekend," explains Susan S. about Chester Frost Park.
Site selection matters: Research specific site characteristics before booking. "Pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out," advises Richard F. about Fall Creek Falls State Park.
Weather considerations: The mountain location experiences different conditions than surrounding areas. "Arrived in the dark, do not recommend as there are not much lighting to see especially if the sites is tight with others," warns a camper at Savage Falls Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Fall Creek Falls provides excellent facilities for those new to camping. "We love to camp at Fall Creek Falls State Park and think this would be a great park for novice campers due to the fact that the facilities are very nice. Modern bathhouses located in each camping area, swimming pool, golf course and restaurant make roughing it easier for those who need more comfort while camping," recommends Sandra V.
Kid-friendly water activities: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas specifically designed for children. "This place is definitely somewhere you wanna bring your kids they would love it! There is a man made beach with a playground and loads of camping lots next to the river!" enthuses Haley H. about Chester Frost Park.
Family entertainment: Beyond luxury glamping in Signal Mountain, Tennessee, several campgrounds offer structured activities for children. "Ranger Review: If you like scenery Cloudland Canyon State Park should be added to your list of must hikes," writes Shelly S., noting the park's family-friendly ranger programs.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites with full hookups are available at several campgrounds but vary in quality and size. "Very mountain-y & scenic. Nice campground. I just stopped for an overnight & was pleasantly surprised. Easy in and out from my spot. The last couple of miles had me a little worried w/my big rig but it went very well," shares Amanda W. about Lookout Mountain-Chattanooga West KOA.
Leveling challenges: Some campsites require additional equipment to level RVs properly. "Some are pull through and are not level side to side or front to back. #28 was very level and right in the water!" advises Joe M. about Skull Island.
Accessibility considerations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs despite marketing themselves as RV-friendly. "The spots are very spacious and very easily accessible," notes Robert M. about Marion County Park.
