Cabin camping near Smyrna, Tennessee offers year-round opportunities within a 30-mile radius of the city. The area sits at approximately 550 feet elevation with mild winters and hot, humid summers that typically reach into the 90s from June through August. Tent camping alternatives include rustic and premium cabin rentals with varying amenities throughout the Cumberland Plateau region.
What to do
Fishing access: 30 minutes east at Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground, where campers can enjoy multiple recreational options. "Large level sites with some privacy. Bathrooms were super clean. Was able to get groceries and all I needed just 10 mins away," notes Jared in his review.
Winter camping: Open year-round at Henry Horton State Park Campground with heated facilities. "Enjoyable stay. The campground is well maintained with plenty of shade at the sites. The bathrooms are nice and warm in the winter and clean," shares Gabe W., who specifically visited during colder months.
Trails and wildlife: Morning deer sightings are common at many parks. "We saw 10 deer one morning and hiked a trail with our 3 boys and 2 dogs. Electric and water hook-ups. Firewood available for cash only. Fire ring with grill and picnic table at our spot," reports Ines M.
What campers like
Large RV accommodations: Level concrete pads for big rigs at Four Corners RV Resort. "The site we stayed at was very level. Pictures don't do it justice, there plenty of nature here to enjoy the outdoors!" Chris L. mentions in his review.
Family entertainment: Halloween festivals draw families with children. "Their halloween weekend is a great time of fun for the kids!" exclaims Justin L. about the seasonal activities.
Restroom quality: Recently renovated facilities at most locations. "Bathrooms were super clean," writes Gillian C., adding "Each site has a picnic table, fire ring, and charcoal grill. Bathrooms and showers available close by. Reserve early because it seems the campground is always full."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book early especially for holiday weekends and summer months. "Reserve early because it seems the campground is always full. Like most parks/forests, you cannot bring your own fire wood," advises one camper.
Seasonal insect activity: Prepare for mosquitos particularly at lakeside locations. "The first and last night we stayed the mosquitos were so bad we couldn't be outside. There were two nights in between that it was tolerable. I went out on the dock one night to fish and they were so thick it was impossible to not get bit by them," warns Chris L.
Store options: Limited supplies at most camp stores. "Make a stop before arriving" is common advice from experienced visitors. The nearby town of Chapel Hill "offers all you might need with a hardware store, Dollar General, walk in clinic and restaurants."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible beginner sites: Backcountry options with minimal hiking required. "The backcountry campsites are just a short trek from the camp store, the hike itself follows the river. We only saw one other couple and no one else was staying at the second site so it was such a secluded weekend!" recommends Amanda C.
Kid-friendly activities: Paved roads for bikes and scooters. "Plenty of places for the kiddos to ride their bikes," shares Laur H., who adds "We loved our stay at HHSP. Check-in was a breeze, setup was simple with a level site, and everyone there, from the park rangers to the camp store staff to the campground hosts, was friendly and helpful."
Transportation options: Shuttle service to Nashville attractions. "Has shuttle service to downtown for 10.00 great price. Very friendly staff," notes Kurt S. about Nashville RV and Cabins Resort.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Bring blocks for sloped sites. "Friendly folks, but the entire campground is kinda hilly. You can get level in the pull through, but just if you park so-so," advises Candy H. about Nashville East-Lebanon KOA.
Sewer connections: Placement varies by site. "My site was pretty small and a back in site but that was no problem since I have a small camper. The site was full hookup and probably the easiest sewer connection I've had at any campground, very low and easy to drain and flush my tanks," reports River R.
Internet connectivity: Variable coverage between locations. "We were on site 18 and it was very level, paved and double wide. Parking was easy and it accommodated the 38' RV and a SUV... because the wifi coverage and speed was so good was actually able to 'work from home' here," shares Randy C.
