Smyrna, Tennessee camping options span across Percy Priest Lake and the surrounding countryside. The area sits at approximately 550 feet elevation with humid subtropical climate conditions featuring hot summers and mild winters. Most RV parks remain open year-round with seasonal activities shifting from water recreation in summer to hiking and exploring Nashville attractions during cooler months.
What to do
Water recreation access: Four Corners RV Resort offers multiple ways to enjoy Percy Priest Lake with boat rentals and private docks. "We enjoyed our stay and took full advantage of the lake. We paddle boarded, swam, and kayaked," notes one visitor at Elm Hill RV Resort.
Nashville attractions: Most campgrounds provide convenient access to downtown Nashville's music scene and cultural sites. "If you want to experience Nashville, it's a pretty good deal given the proximity," explains a camper about their stay at Elm Hill RV Resort, which is approximately 20 minutes from downtown.
Family activities: Nashville RV and Cabins Resort features organized recreational areas specifically designed for children. "Sites were large with awesome pool and play areas for kiddos," shares one visitor, highlighting the family-friendly atmosphere.
What campers like
Lake views: The waterfront settings on Percy Priest Lake create memorable camping experiences. "We had fantastic water views from both sides of the coach. The pads are all concrete, wide sites, include a fire ring and picnic table," reports one visitor about their stay at Four Corners Resort and Marina.
Live entertainment: Several parks feature regular musical performances that enhance the Nashville experience. "Live music every night was nice," mentions a visitor at Grand Ole RV Resort & Market, reflecting the area's strong music culture even at camping locations.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept amenities that receive positive feedback. "The bathhouse is warm and roomy. There were only 2 stalls and 2 showers, but the showers had enough space that you weren't getting dressed in the same space," notes a camper who stayed at Four Corners Resort and Marina during winter months.
What you should know
Traffic noise levels: Highway proximity means some parks experience traffic sounds that might disturb light sleepers. "Noisy due to the highway that runs right on the other side of the tree line," explains a reviewer about Nashville North KOA.
Seasonal considerations: Many RV parks near Smyrna experience insect activity during warmer months. "MOSQUITOS! The first and last night we stayed the mosquitos were so bad we couldn't be outside," warns a visitor at Four Corners RV Resort.
Limited tent camping: Several RV parks in the area have restrictions on tent camping or roof-top tents. "Couldn't even stay here because I have a roof top tent/camper was super excited... apparently the owners allow no types of tents," reports one disappointed visitor to Four Corners RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Parks with dedicated recreational facilities help keep children engaged. "From the second we pulled in we had nothing but great vibes. The amenities were top notch and tons to do with kids," shares a visitor about their experience at Elm Hill RV Resort.
Pool access benefits: During hot Tennessee summers, swimming pools provide essential relief for families. "Kids loved swimming in the pool," mentions a visitor about their stay at Elm Hill RV Resort, highlighting this valuable amenity.
Playground considerations: Some parks advertise playgrounds that might be more limited than expected. "They show a playset on their map and it was two regular swings and a baby swing. This was disappointing since we had little ones," notes a family that stayed at Grand Ole RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection advice: When booking at River Road RV Park & Horse Camp, consider the various site configurations. "Sites are big and even," notes one RVer, though they also mention some areas of the park have long-term residents with older units.
Backing assistance: Staff at many rv parks Smyrna, Tennessee help with parking larger rigs. "I'm definitely going to stay there every time I stop in Nashville," reports one camper about Grand Ole RV Resort, who appreciated being "greeted at my truck, checked-in and lead to my site by golf cart."
Space limitations: Several RV parks near Smyrna have tight spacing between sites. "Be very cautious of the site lengths. Some are extremely short and I'd say the measurements are nearly exact," advises a camper who stayed at Elm Hill RV Resort, emphasizing the importance of accurate length information when booking.
