The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Tent Camping near Stillhouse Hollow Lake

620 Reviews

Tent campers exploring Stillhouse Hollow Lake in Tennessee have access to several primitive camping options, with Holleman's Bend Camping Area being the most reviewed free tent camping location. This site offers riverside camping on a small peninsula where Cumberland River provides scenic water views. Other options for tent campers include Turnhole Backcountry Campsite in nearby Mammoth Cave National Park and Tuscarora Glade, which provides a more established tent camping experience approximately 30 miles northeast of Stillhouse Hollow Lake.

Most tent sites near Stillhouse Hollow Lake provide only basic amenities, with campers needing to bring their own water and supplies. At Holleman's Bend, campers should note the mixed terrain that includes both a parking area with fire pits and more secluded sites accessed by driving past the main area. The 14-day stay limit is enforced by rangers who may come by to record license plate information. Sites typically feature fire rings, but lack amenities such as drinking water, tables, or toilet facilities. Cell service is extremely limited throughout the area, making offline maps essential for navigation.

The surrounding wilderness offers tent campers exceptional stargazing opportunities, particularly at Tuscarora Glade which sits in Pickett County's designated Dark Sky region. The water access at Holleman's Bend allows for fishing, though campers may hear fish splashing throughout the night. Wildlife sightings are common, with one camper noting, "I woke up early enough to see the sunrise and the fog coming off the river. Simply magical." Morning mist over the water creates atmospheric camping conditions, especially for those who appreciate natural settings without modern conveniences. The area's isolation ensures minimal light pollution and quiet evenings, making these sites ideal for tent campers seeking genuine backcountry experiences.

Map showing campgrounds near Stillhouse Hollow Lake, TennesseeExplore the Map

Best Tent Sites Near Stillhouse Hollow Lake (23)

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 23 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Stillhouse Hollow Lake Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Tent Camping Photos near Stillhouse Hollow Lake

20 Photos of 23 Stillhouse Hollow Lake Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Stillhouse Hollow Lake

620 Reviews of 23 Stillhouse Hollow Lake Campgrounds

  • Christy E.
    Jun. 14, 2018

    Rock Island State Park Campground

    Beautiful area with many activities

    I stayed in the tent-only loop - a small group of 10 sites. It was quiet and had many trees for hammocks. Thus site offers level tent pads, a grill, fire ring, and picnic table. Clean bathrooms and hot showers available. The nearby swimming beach was great for the kids. Many short hiking options available. Make sure to visit the ranger station for a map and safety rules during water releases.

  • Myron C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 25, 2019

    Edgar Evins State Park Campground

    A Campground with Lots to Do but with Interesting Tent Pads

    Edgar Evins State Park is a large park with lots of activities for young and old. However, if you want to stay in the campground, make sure to take a freestanding tent unless you have creative ways to keep your tent up. Most of the sites have wooden platforms, and the fire pits are beside the road. Perhaps most people like that sense of permanence, but I personally prefer solid ground or even gravel pads. Fortunately, the one I used was a free-standing tent. There is another option, and that is to stay in the primitive camping area. Of course, they are walk-in sites, but they are not far from where you park. I would normally choose the primitive camping area for a couple of reasons. There is a little more privacy, and you have soft ground on which to pitch your tent. Obviously, if you are an RV camper, staying in the primitive area does not apply. Unfortunately, it was better this time to choose a site that you don’t have to walk to. Out of all the state park campgrounds I have visited, the bath rooms in this state park are the best. They are modern with tiled floors, and the showers resemble ones you would find at privately owned campgrounds. There are several different activity options—volleyball, horseshoes, playgrounds, hiking trails, etc. There is also an aviary, a marina, a restaurant, and a couple of boat ramps. For the children, there is the“Storybook Trail.” For other overnight options, there are also cabins that you can rent. In retrospect, the primitive area would have been a better choice. It definitely would have been more quiet. No matter whether you stay in the primitive area or the regular camping area, you will encounter hilly terrain. The camp store is fully stocked with most of your camping needs, and there is also a laundry. Overall, Edgar Evins State Park was a good place to spend time, but again, I have my doubts about the wooden platforms.

  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 24, 2019

    Edgar Evins State Park Campground

    Sorta like a treehouse

    Edgar Evins SP is unique in that the campground sites are decks, which is actually pretty cool. Now the one down side is that certain sites can be a challenge to back into. If you are a talented backer upper shouldn’t be an issue. However if your backing up could use some practice, and/or causes fights with your spouse you may want to call and ask the easier sites to set up in...just saying, less stress. The bottom sites are along the lake and you are across from the marina. Another thing is your cooking area is off the side of your deck with your picnic table. The primitive sites are walk in and have some pretty sweet views of the lake. Downside your walking up and down a slope with your gear. Speaking of slopes, the whole campground is on a slope so your pretty much either going up or down. Cool stairways to use and strategically placed facilities. The store and trash are located wheee you park for the primitive sites at the entrance. There’s a trail in the campground that gives you a quick route to the beach area.

  • Lee D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 25, 2025

    Rock Island State Park Campground

    Waterfalls!

    General: Three distinctly different areas: tent only section, cabin area, and the main campground. I didn’t see the inside of the cabins, but they looked very luxurious from the outside, so I am sure they are very nice. The tent area also looks nice. This review focuses on the main campground. 

    Site Quality: Camper pads are all paved but vary in length from 18 to 51 feet. The width of some can also accommodate two cars side by side. Not all are completely level. Each site has a picnic table, lantern hook, fire ring, and grill. All sites have electricity and water, and eight of the 50 sites are FHU. There are many trees to provide separation and privacy, and sites are spaced a decent amount of space apart. Some sites can accommodate tents, and these are indicated on the post. 

    Bath/Shower: Very clean. There was a sign saying the bathrooms are cleaned twice per day. Soap, paper towels, and utility hooks are all appreciated as was instant hot water from the taps. 

    Activities/Amenities: Many outdoor activities including tennis, basketball, volleyball, horseshoes, and a playground. There are two hiking trails accessible from the campground. I hiked a short distance on the Bluff Trail until it became narrow and overgrown. There are other hikes that require a drive from the campground. The best hike is in the Twin Falls area but that is a 10-15 minute drive from the campground. There is also a swimming beach with a rentable pavilion and picnic tables. It is possible to walk there but easier to drive. We also saw people kayaking on the lake and fishing is permitted. Each bathhouse also has one washer/dryer for a reasonable price. Free WiFi with a good, strong signal. 

    We enjoyed our two-night stay at this campground and for us, it was a five-star stay but I gave it four stars due to some sites not being completely level and the necessity to drive to the best hike.

  • T
    Sep. 26, 2021

    Rock Island State Park Campground

    Rock Island State Park

    Beautiful state park! Unbelievable waterfalls with many of hiking trails! There is a lot of history in the park! Tent campground was nice and level! Each tent site had a tent pad, lantern pole, fire ring and sturdy table! The bathhouses was clean and warm water! Wood is sold in the near by town or at the park visitor center!

  • Roger W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jan. 2, 2025

    Barren River Tailwater

    40 Mins from 65

    Tailwater CG - Glasco, KY 1/1/25

    (72 yr olds in 27’ trailer.)

    Overall Rating: 4 for an overnight stay. Great winter price, but 40 minutes from 65 w trailer. Price 2024: $8 w interagency pass during winter Security: Host’s site at entry. Usage during visit: Only us Visual Privacy Between Adjacent Sites: No Site Spacing: Close. Varies.
    Pad surface: Gravel Reservations: Required. Can be made at the cg.
    Outside Road Noise: No Through Traffic in campground: No Electric Hookup: Yes, however off during winter 24/25.
    Sewer Hookup: No Dump Station: Yes Potable Water Available: Yes. Only at one location during winter. Generators: Allowed. Bathroom: Two. Flush Bath and showers bathhouse is closed during winter. Pit toilets at far end open. Pull Throughs: One. Cell Service (Verizon): 1 to 3 bars Setting: Along River Recent Weather: Cold nights.
    Solar: Yes Host: Yes, helpful.
    Rig Size: Varies between sites. Sites: Some sites back up to the river. These are the best locations, I think.

  • Lisa D.
    May. 23, 2023

    Kendall Campground

    Only tent site

    I had the only tent site. It was adequate but many stares up and down. No water no electricity. Bathrooms were clean, campground was clean and quite. There is a snack shack outside the gate and they have bait. Good fishing lake and river.

  • Shelly S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 28, 2020

    Turnhole Backcountry Campsite — Mammoth Cave National Park

    Easy or Hard

    Another backside primitive campsite at Mammoth Cave National Forest, Ky.

    A lot of people don’t realize the extensive trail system of Mammoth Cave. They come for the Cave and never take the time to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

    Before using this campsite you are supposed to check in at the visitors center. Unfortunately the ferry is closed so it’s a long drive around to the backside.

    Turnhole Campsite is a short or long hike from the Maple Springs parking area. Sal Hollow Trail would be the long trail, twisty , turny and moderately challenging. Buffalo Trail is a straight hike in , take a left at the intersection and straight on to the campsite. Difference of about 3 miles-ish.

    The trails are used by hikers and horseback riders, are well marked and lotsa fauna to see. No major vistas here, just woods.

    The campsite has poles to tie your horses, a fire ring, tent pad and lantern hooks. Pretty easy to find seasoned wood to burn. DARK at night, lots of animal noises ;) not much of a night sky except in the winter months.

    The cool thing about this campsite is your sorta on a peninsula of the river. Very private and it’s not on a loop trail so no foot traffic passing by.

  • Grant B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 2, 2021

    Ragland Bottom

    Beautiful Scenery and Friendly Staff

    We really enjoyed our text stay at Ragland Bottom campground. Even with it being a holiday weekend, the bathrooms were incredibly clean and the site did not feel crowded. We stayed at tent only site 22 and it had power and water. The gravel was on the coarser side and the pad was a bit rocky, but I was able to stale our tent out with a 2lb mini sledge. I did not like that the fire rings were located outside the tent pads, but they did have rock surrounds and a grill. The site also had a charcoal grill and wood railing along one side which came in handy for hanging towels and such to dry. Plenty of shade and the views were very nice.

Guide to Stillhouse Hollow Lake

Nestled in the heart of Tennessee, Stillhouse Hollow Lake offers a serene escape for tent campers looking to immerse themselves in nature. With a variety of campgrounds nearby, adventurers can find the perfect spot to set up camp and enjoy the great outdoors.

Tips for tent camping near Stillhouse Hollow Lake

  • For a peaceful experience, consider staying at Holleman's Bend Camping Area, where you can enjoy the tranquility of the river and stunning sunrises.
  • If you're seeking privacy, venture past the main sites at Holleman's Bend Camping Area to discover more secluded spots that enhance your camping experience.
  • Be prepared for limited cell service, as noted by visitors at Holleman's Bend Camping Area, which can help you disconnect and truly enjoy nature.

Local attractions to explore

  • Don't miss a visit to the charming town of Gainesboro, where you can grab a coffee at Nostalgic Coffee Cafe after camping at Holleman's Bend Camping Area.
  • While camping at Tailwater Rec Area, take a short drive to explore the scenic beauty of Stillhouse Hollow Lake and its surrounding landscapes.
  • Enjoy the beautiful waters and fishing opportunities at Roaring River Park, just a stone's throw away from your tent.

Tent camping features to enjoy

  • At Holleman's Bend Camping Area, you can have a campfire under the stars, making for a cozy evening atmosphere.
  • The Tailwater Rec Area offers essential amenities like electric hookups, ensuring a comfortable stay for tent campers.
  • For those looking for a primitive experience, Mitchell Creek - Primitive Site allows for fires and a true back-to-nature vibe, perfect for adventurous souls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Stillhouse Hollow Lake?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Stillhouse Hollow Lake is Holleman's Bend Camping Area with a 4.2-star rating from 6 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Stillhouse Hollow Lake?

TheDyrt.com has all 23 tent camping locations near Stillhouse Hollow Lake, with real photos and reviews from campers.

Keep Exploring