Fall Creek Falls State Park offers diverse camping experiences beyond glamping, with 256 campsites spread across five distinct camping areas. Located on the eastern Cumberland Plateau at elevations ranging from 800 to 1,900 feet, the park's terrain creates a microclimate that's typically 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands. The park's campground areas feature both wooded sites and open areas with electrical hookups, water access, and centrally located bath houses.
What to do
Hiking extensive trail systems: Fall Creek Falls State Park provides multiple trail options ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. "We visited in spring and returned for the summer. There's tons to do from hiking, to swimming, waterfall gazing, rock climbing, ziplining, and much more," shares Brandie D. about Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground.
Swimming in natural pools: Rock Island State Park features both river swimming areas and a designated swimming beach. "The kids had the best time. Thinking about going back this weekend!" reports Drew E. about the swimming facilities at Spacious Skies Belle Ridge, which offers a unique swimming lake surrounded by rock formations.
Fishing opportunities: Several parks near Spencer provide fishing access. At Edgar Evins State Park, you can fish directly on Center Hill Lake from certain campsites. "Beautiful lake and limestone formations" notes John B. about his experience at Edgar Evins State Park Campground.
Waterfall exploration: The region boasts numerous waterfalls within short hiking distances. "We did hike back there some. There are 4 waterfalls according to their map," explains Thomas H. about the trail system at Greeter Falls Campground, noting that waterfall intensity varies with seasonal rainfall.
What campers like
Platform camping setups: Edgar Evins State Park features unique wooden platforms for camping rigs. "First time camping in our camper, on platforms. Loved it! Very informative pontoon boat tour with a Park Ranger," reports Rosa B. The platforms accommodate both tents and RVs while providing stability on the sloped terrain.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the Spencer area maintain well-kept bathroom and shower facilities. "Bathhouse is code locked and was clean," notes Thomas H. about Greeter Falls Campground, which also provides amenities like an activity room with projector screen and a fenced dog park area.
Connectivity options: Despite the rural location, several campgrounds offer surprisingly good connectivity. "AT&T had 2 bars and 1 MB/s w/o a booster, 3 bars and 4 MB/s with it," reports Ray & Terri F. about their stay at Edgar Evins State Park. Other parks like Greeter Falls provide free WiFi, though signal strength varies by campsite location.
Variety of glamping accommodations: Beyond Fall Creek Falls, glamping options exist throughout the region. "We are here on our Honeymoon...they had a yurt ready for us. The Yurt was so nice had 2 foam pads for us to sleep on with sleeping bags. A lantern and charger for the lantern. And a fan," shares Brandi Y. about her glamping experience near Spencer, Tennessee.
What you should know
Site size variations: Campsite dimensions differ significantly between parks and within specific camping loops. "Be sure to check the site measurements. Our only complaint was the site size & distance to our neighbor," advises Karlie about Greeter Falls Campground. Some sites may be challenging for larger setups.
Seasonal water levels: Waterfall intensity depends entirely on recent rainfall. "Unfortunately it was pretty dry so there wasn't much waterfall action," notes Thomas H. about his visit to Greeter Falls in September. Spring typically offers the most impressive waterfall displays near Spencer.
Primitive camping challenges: For those seeking backcountry camping near Spencer, prepare for truly primitive conditions. "We stayed in the primitive camping section which has a parking area up top and you hike with your equipment down some stairs into a wooded area with about 7 primitive campsites," explains Emily W. about her experience at Savage Falls Campground, noting that "Bathhouse was only a short hike away and there were strategically placed water pumps."
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance bookings, especially during peak seasons. "Alum Gap campground provides a remote and tranquil wilderness camping experience in Tennessee... make sure to reserve a site in advance," advises Asher K. about Alum Gap Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for accessible waterfall hikes: Several family-friendly waterfall trails exist within short distances of campgrounds. "The waterfalls here are pretty incredible and there is some great hiking in the area. Make sure to do the whole loop so that you can appreciate the rock formations and cliffs," recommends Asher K. about Greeter Falls, noting that afternoon hikes can include swimming opportunities during hot days.
Consider campground amenities: Some parks offer facilities specifically designed for children. "There is a great trail that connects the campgrounds with the Woodland Trail. Once you've parked at the campground, there's no need to get in your car until you leave!" shares Rebecca P. about Fall Creek Falls State Park, highlighting the convenience for families with children.
Choose appropriate campsites: When glamping near Spencer with families, select sites with adequate space. "They have a little sand pit area for kids to play in," notes Thomas H. about Greeter Falls Campground, which offers both traditional camping and glamping options like yurts that accommodate families comfortably.
Evaluate trail difficulties: Consider children's hiking abilities when planning outings. "There are many short hiking options available. My favorite is the cable trail. If i recall it's not far from the campsite," suggests Tyler J. about Fall Creek Falls, referencing one of the park's more adventurous trails that older children might enjoy.
Tips from RVers
Platform site considerations: RVers at Edgar Evins should prepare for the park's unique platform campsites. "The sites are all elevated platforms due to the steep slope to the lake, which we had not encountered before, but are very widely spaced," explains Ray & Terri F., noting that "Most of the fire rings are in a narrow strip of gravel along the road."
Campground access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult entry points. "The entrance and exit is very narrow and steep even for our Sprinter motorhome, let alone something larger. Would not advise it!" warns Ron&Shirley H. about Smooth Rapids Campground, suggesting careful research before bringing larger rigs.
Site leveling requirements: Many campsites in the region require equipment for leveling. "Our rv sites were gravel, required some leveling, had FHUs. 50/30/20 amp service, water and sewer of course," reports Thomas H. about Greeter Falls Campground, adding that his 23-foot camper and F-150 tow vehicle fit comfortably with enough space to unhook.
