Are you planning a tent camping trip to Signal Mountain? We've got you covered. You can find tent campsites by type, including drive-in, walk-in, and even hike-in for a backpacking adventure. Each tent campsite offers quick access to one or more of Signal Mountain's most popular destinations.
FOSTER FALLS CAMPGROUND - Open to Vehicles - Reservations Required The Foster Falls campground has 26 rustic campsites ideal for tents or small trailers. The Foster Falls Campground is the only camping area in the park where guests may park a car and/or pop-ups next to the campsite. The campground is open year-round. All sites have a fire ring and a picnic table. Most sites are wooded, offering some shade and have a level, gravel surface. A few are on a slight incline. There are no water or electric hook-ups but a restroom and heated showers are available. No gas generators are allowed at the Foster Falls Campground. BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING - Reservations Required South Cumberland boasts over 90 miles of backpacking trails with 93 campsites, eight group sites and one rustic lodge, the Hobbs Cabin. These campsites are located within 12 designated back country campgrounds across the Fiery Gizzard and Savage Gulf trail systems. South Cumberland encourages visitors to reserve your campsite early to ensure you have a site upon arrival. Remember, follow all park rules and be prepared to have a rewarding backcountry experience. All campsites are limited to four adults and two children. Children are defined as ages 13 and younger. Site capacity information can be found under site features on the campsite reservation page. Please look closely at your campsite's capacity when reserving. Each site has a designated fire ring. Hiking is required to reach the sites, although a few sites are available at only 120 yards from the parking lot. Water must be filtered from natural sources or carried in, be sure to check with the ranger stations about water availability. A pit toilet is also available at each campground. South Cumberland has primitive group campsites at most Savage Gulf campgrounds. These sites can accommodate from 30-60 campers, depending on the site and location.
$18 - $21 / night
30 Walk-In Campsites
$25 / night
Prentice Cooper State Forest is located in southeastern Tennessee, in Marion County. The forest is approximately 10 miles west of Chattanooga and is heavily utilized by the public. It is situated on the scenic Tennessee River Gorge. The property for Prentice Cooper was acquired by simple purchase between 1938 and 1944. The site was proclaimed a State Forest in 1945. Sixty-nine percent of the forest is in multiple-use regulated forests and the remainder is in conservation areas.
Camping is permitted at the Davis Pond Camping area on a first-come, first-served basis. These primitive campsites have no sanitation facilities.
South Cumberland State Park is located within four different Tennessee counties: Grundy, Franklin, Marion and Sequatchie. The park is composed of approximately 30,845 acres in nine separate areas and boasts some of the best hiking and backcountry camping in the region.
$8 - $35 / night
South Cumberland State Park is a state park in the middle and southeast portions of Tennessee on the Cumberland Plateau. The park is one of Tennessee's newer state parks. It is a collection of 10 areas in four counties.
$8 - $12 / night
Camping is permitted at the Hunter's Check Station Camping area on a first-come, first-served basis. These primitive campsites have no sanitation facilities.
Prentice Cooper State Forest is located in southeastern Tennessee, in Marion County. The forest is approximately 10 miles west of Chattanooga and is heavily utilized by the public. It is situated on the scenic Tennessee River Gorge. The property for Prentice Cooper was acquired by simple purchase between 1938 and 1944. The site was proclaimed a State Forest in 1945. Sixty-nine percent of the forest is in multiple-use regulated forests and the remainder is in conservation areas. Approximately 6,939 acres are designated as unregulated scenic zones that protect this view shed and other scenic areas of the forest. Hicks Gap Natural Area (350 acres) also occurs in the forest and was developed to protect the federally endangered Large-flowered Skullcap. The forest also includes several in-holdings owned by Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and 3 cemeteries. Management activities of the forest focus primarily on sustainable timber management, forest management demonstration and wildlife habitat improvement while maintaining recreational opportunities for the public. There are 35 miles of hiking trails, including the south end of the Cumberland Trail State Park. There also are two designated camping areas. Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Forestry Division has provided labor and portions of the forest for various types of research in collaboration with the University of Tennessee. Hunting has been a traditional use of the forest. Other recreational activities include OHV use in designated areas, rock climbing, hiking, Mountain biking, horseback riding, bird watching, and camping.
Legend
We followed our RV GPS right to the campground (CG) that is located right off I-24. Check in was quick and easy. 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. Water pressure was okay at around 45 psi. They have cable but we did not use it. Their Wifi was about average for a CG this size. We got 3 bars on Verizon and used our MiFi on this overnighter. Satellite could be iffy due to the amount of mature trees. We did see Starlink antennas at some of the sites. The sites are decently spaced and 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. They have glamping cabins, teepees, and a covered wagon with nice patio decor. There’s also a swimming pool, pickleball court, catch& release pond plus other amenities. There’s also laundry and propane. The staff was very nice and helpful. We were impressed with this CG with the only caveat that there’s quite a bit of highway noise from the interstate. However, the noise did not overweigh our satisfaction and we will definitely mark this CG for another overnighter or longer stay in the future.
Traveler
We tent camped on Spot 27. Nice back in RV spot with water and electric. Bathhouse is close by. Gray water dump is across the road. Originally we booked Spot 60. That’s a pull through with little room for a tent. No cell service but that’s okay as we disconnected for a while. You can get service at the top of the park. Clean bathrooms with hot showers. Trails are nicely blazed with colors that match trail map. Georgia apple farms are a short, 20-30 minutes away.
Legend
We camped here over the weekend. Our campsite was perfect. Very private and enough space for 2 tents. Not all campsites are made for tents, some have just a concrete driveway. We had the usual amenities, like a picnic table with a bench, fire pit, and a lantern pole. The bathhouse was clean and well stocked. Rock Island offers a lot hiking trails and stunning waterfalls. There is a little coffee/icecream shop just outside the park, which was awesome. We would camp here anytime again.
Scout
Well maintained, 50 sites, most have asphalt pads, nice concrete tables and fire rings. Fire wood is available for $5 a bundle. Lots of regional history. Nice trails along the Duck river. It is located near I-24 so you can hear traffic all night.
Guide
The campground is very clean and like new. We used our pop up and the site we used was very level.
Excellent hiking and views of the canyon.
Traveler
Cold night. No firewood. Alone. It's okay.
Traveler
Great sites with fire pits.
GuideI had a wonderful time at backcountry site #4 this past Sunday - Monday. The hike to the site is downhill from the stone wall parking lot, so it was pretty easy to get to at only 1 mile.
The site is private and pretty large. There were plenty of trees for hammocks and a few flat spots for small tents.
A small creek flows through the site for easy water access (but I was told that it doesn’t flow all year).
The best part of site #4 is that it’s about 0.2 miles from a beautiful west facing overlook where I enjoyed the sunset.
I can’t recommend this site every .
Scout
Easy to find, close to Fall Creek Falls, Power available, quiet spot except for the coyotes in the woods. Confused Roosters will wake you up at various times. Ear plugs help with the Roosters and coyotes. It's not a campground so don't expect a shower house or bathrooms. I would stay there again. Owner is an exceptional host.
Scout
Bob has a wonderfully serene campground for both RV’s and tent camping. I invite everybody looking for a quiet place on Mentone to visit 1776 RV.
ScoutVery well kept RV campground.
GuideThis is a great park with a lot to offer and more in the near vicinity.
Cell reception (T-Mobile) was non-existent in the site. However, there was reception at the trading post and possibly elsewhere.
They're installing Bear Boxes in tent sites back and front country (as I understood it) and are clearly paying attention to what people want and how to improve visitors experiences.
A lot of the sites are RV orientated. But the walk in tent sites are really close to the parking area. Also, nearby backcountry platforms and sites can be easily accessed.
If you want walking access to the trails, it's probably best to choose a site near the lake as that's where most trails are accessed from.
LegendWe have stopped here several times in the past when it was a KOA. The new owners have fixed it up. The roads are still gravel but in better shape, the pads are nicer, and there is more room between sites. 30/50 amp electric, water & sewer. Lots of trees, there is a big dog park. The pool was closed when we were there. Bathrooms and showers were nice, but dated. Tent sites, cabins. Lots of road noise!
TravelerI love this campground. It's located right off the main highway, and has pull-through spots with full hookups. But the best part is the screaming fast internet! We work from home and the internet was so fast, people were amazed when I told them I was at a campground. We didn't even try to use our 5G system. The rates are great, too!
Ranger
We arrived and we got to pick out our own campsite. Thanks to the friendly and helpful staff. Bathrooms were clean and the showers were warm water beautiful tall trees provided shade. Scenic Drive was stunning.
Traveler
Ample space, gorgeous views of the lake, and super friendly staff. We stayed in space 19. It is sized for a smaller rig which was perfect for us. We got to watch fish jump and a crane fishing in the morning. Only caught small fish, but the kids had a blast swimming. The lake is shallow with a slow grade which was perfect for our young children. Everyone was friendly and respectful. The bathrooms were clean and it was a nice bonus to have a no-charge shower available for tent camping.
Traveler
Excellent instructions, easy to find my site. Trees so can add my tarp for possible rain. Restful sleep. Parked by my deluxe primitive site. It comes with hot shower and flush toilet. Porta potties close by lit with fairy lights at night. I was impressed as they were clean. Self check in. I saw a deer on the way to the bathroom. Appreciate the trash cans, water and electricity. Close to gas, food. I went to Coalmont. The Mexican food was authentic. Amazing.
Guide
It took us about 1.5 hours to reach the campground from where the pavement ended. It gets rough in places, but a sedan can do it if it's dry. Once you finally reach the campground, it is nice. Nestled way back in the woods. No power or water hookups. A couple of water hydrates throughout the campground. No alcohol permitted. It is a wildlife management area. There is a host in the campground. Beautiful scenery!
Guide
Land pass required. No alcohol is permitted. This is a wildlife management area. The camp sites are first come, first serve. They are free. Only 2 sites with tables. If you like dispersed camping you'll probably enjoy it. If you prefer a campground, this is not for you.
Guide
This campground is side by side hook ups. Not a tree one in the site area. Beautiful view of the mountain. We did not stay the night.
Guide
The Pocket is our favorite place to camp. You're under a good canopy, so lots of shade. The creek is great for kids to play in. There's no need to bring water, just a container. There's a natural spring that flows out of the ground in the day area. We drink this water every day. We are local to The Pocket, so we fill jugs for home here as well. It is very cold water. No matter the temperature, you'll cool off in the spring. No showers but they do have a bathroom house. No water or power hookups. Site 10 is right next to the creek and gets the most sun. Site 7 is close to the day area, and people tend to intrude on your privacy in this site. Other than that, the campground is awesome! Our favorite sites are 6 and 23.
Scout
Good, discreet and comfortable spot.
Arrived at night and there was not a chance I was going to discover the reserved spot for camping. Only found it because another camper, who seemed to be familiar with area, assisted me. If sections or spots are named after the name reserved online, you wouldn't know this arriving as there is only red reflectors. Overall, good spot just was frustrating at first.
Guide
This quiet little camp site is in the heart of the cherokee Forest. It’s so beautiful. Each site is a good distance away from the other and there is the constant sound of the creek flowing right next to it. The bathrooms are clean and right in the middle a perfect spot for a getaway
Guide
I always have a great time staying at this campground and meeting many friendly people. The road noise is not as bad as some people say. I mostly hear only the river running. The shower house is always clean, and for $15, it is a great deal. Make reservations on line as it fills up on the weekends.
Guide
No picnic tables or pit toilets. Flat campsites next to a very nice creek.
Guide
We stayed on site 15 of the B loop. It was a great location, but in the center of the site once stood a large tree with a timber surround. The tree has been cut down, but the surround is still there, and we kept tripping over it. Otherwise, it's close to the bathhouse, and the water spigot is right across the street. As someone who uses a camper, here's what you need to know. Coming up the mountain has some steep grades and a few switch backs that you can't see around. There are often oncoming vehicles who are often driving to fast and not considering those of us in large vehicles. We had a couple of course calls even without the camper in tow. The roads in the campground are narrow and again, some of the turns are sharp when pulling a trailer. There is only one dump station and it's on the other side of the campground. From the B loop, you have to traverse about a 120 degree switchback to get to it. My friend who was there pulling a 5th wheel decided not to try it and opted to pay to dump somewhere else. I pull a 25ft travel trailer and had no problem, although it felt sketchy going into it. Once there, it was probably the best dump station I've ever used. The water pressure almost blew a connection to my tank flush, but I'm sure the tank is clean now! As I eluded to before, there are no water hookups at the sites, only power (30A). You'll need to fill your fresh water tanks before you set up. Cell/ internet; in the B loop there is NO AT&T in spite of what this site says. You may get a weak signal on the other side, but it's spotty at best. There appeared to be a Verizon tower on the mountain, so that will probably work. It is a pet friendly campground, but personally, I don't find that friendly. I don't like walking up to someone dog barking at the person getting their 6 am morning walk and then the owner yelling at the dog to be quiet.
Traveler
Overall we enjoyed this stay! GPS wants to take you to where the road dead ends but the actual turn off is before the end of the road on the right where the big wood sign is. The first road is pretty nice but then the road forks. We went right which goes up, passed an open gate followed the road LOTS OF DEEP POTHOLES. The road then opens up to a four way, we kept going straight, followed the road down and then came to three sites all empty. It was quiet and we were alone so overall we enjoyed other than the deep potholes. Our truck is pretty high and 4x4 so wasn’t too bad for us but a low car may not fair as well. We were there on a Friday
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Signal Mountain, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Signal Mountain, TN is Foster Falls Campground — South Cumberland State Park with a 4.4-star rating from 31 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Signal Mountain, TN?
TheDyrt.com has all 54 tent camping locations near Signal Mountain, TN, with real photos and reviews from campers.
