140 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping near Tennessee Ridge, Tennessee is situated in a region rich with water-based recreation opportunities, primarily centered around the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area and nearby state parks. Stewart State Forest offers primitive camping with marked trails throughout the area, while more developed options include Piney Campground and Paris Landing State Park. The area features a mix of lakefront sites along Kentucky Lake and the Tennessee River, with both primitive tent camping and full-service RV sites available. Most campgrounds in the region are within a 30-minute drive of Tennessee Ridge, providing access to both secluded forest settings and water-based recreation.
Many campgrounds in the Tennessee Ridge area operate year-round, though some facilities like Land Between the Lakes Piney Campground are seasonal, operating from March through November. Summer months bring high humidity and temperatures, making shaded sites particularly valuable. Cell service can be spotty in more remote areas, especially at Stewart State Forest where campers should set GPS directions before leaving main highways. During hunting seasons (primarily fall and spring), campers at Stewart State Forest should be aware of increased activity. Water access is limited at primitive sites, with the closest store to Stewart State Forest being approximately 5 miles away in Tennessee Ridge.
The camping experience varies significantly between developed and primitive sites. Lakefront campgrounds like Paris Landing and Piney offer boat ramps, swimming areas, and camp stores, making them suitable for extended family stays. According to reviews, Piney Campground is "wildly popular among locals and travelers alike" with amenities including bike paths, playgrounds, and lake views. In contrast, Stewart State Forest provides a more rustic experience with no water facilities on site. One camper noted, "If you are looking for an out-of-the-main-drag area to go camping, try this place," adding that "there is no water, so bring plenty." Most campgrounds in the region are pet-friendly, though leash requirements are standard.
"Great easy drive from middle Tennessee with tons of great amenities and staff."
"One great thing about here is the beautiful lake nearby! My family and I spent our entire day here and had an absolute blast. The lake front views are incredible."
"Campground Review: Montgomery Bell State Park The Four Mile Campground is nestled in a hollow offering shade and creekage on one side plus several of the trailheads start nearby and you are close"
"It is a beautiful state park known as the"Queen of Tennessee's State Parks". There are 4,000 acres with mountain biking, fishing, hiking, picnic areas, kayaking/canoeing, and a golf course."
"Close to marina. You can rent boats there. Has separate access to swimming area, you don't have to try to cross the boa busy highway. Nice restaurants just up road."
"Close to the marina it's a hard walk uphill both ways to the bathroom but they are very nice and well kept. Big open areas for children to play overall very good state park campground"
"The closest store is about 5 miles away near Tennessee Ridge. There are marked trails throughout the area."
"Boswell Landing is a quiet spot of the park with gorgeous views of Kentucky Lake where you can pull up a chair (or tent!) and relax."
"Well maintained road to get here and pretty close to a modern campground with a small store. We'll be coming back here again!"
from $5 - $12 / night
Check Availability"My only complaint is that from the sites located on the water, the bathhouse is quite a hike. Kids ride bicycles all over the park and I feel the place is pretty secure."
from $35 / night
"Piney Campground is part of the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. It is wildly popular among locals and travelers alike."
"While quiet hours were observed, there was a lot of music, celebrating a Tennessee win with a golf cart parade and victorious choral singing of Rocky Top right up until 11pm."
from $40 - $600 / night
Check Availability"They are right on the water with easy access to put in a kayak. And close to a boat ramp if bringing a boat. It’s shaded. The bath house is a bit of a walk and they have restrooms only, no showers."
"It was clean and spacious with great views of Kentucky Lake."
"Located at Land Between the Lakes at the south end. This campground has about 18 sites. You can can camp near the water or back in the woods."
"There is a natural boat launch into Bards Lake. A single Vault toilet and Dumpster as well."
ScoutVery clean campground, water is not for swimming though! And people who are keeping it going are super nice. Wanted to extend but they only have 14 sites and it was booked :/
Traveler** Daniel F did not stay at the same campground his photos are not of the same place and site 907 doesn’t exist** Most of the campground is seasonal. The non seasonal spots are very close. Our awning was inches away from the slide out of the camper next to us. The biggest reason I wouldn’t come back were the 2 dogs in the permit house up front. The people would let them out at 6am (11pm to 7am quiet time) and leave them out to bark non stop for at least an hour. All available spots are in the front of the campground by the barking dogs.
ScoutIt was very nice and comfortable recommend the tree spot
ScoutWe tent camp, but like electricity, however the pads are concrete and can not get stakes in ground. Did not know it was okay to put tent up off pad in grass until we called a park ranger. By this time we was frustrated because we had already put tent up.
TravelerThis site was a challenge to pull into but once in, we enjoyed the site and booked an additional night.
GuideNice spot but a little crowded for my tastes.
ScoutThis campground is nice. Pool and indoor park is great for the kids. But this place is really really quiet. Not bad but we were scared to make a sound.
TravelerGood fishing, fire pit, gravel road in, peaceful
TravelerBathroom is mid. Showers are 20 minutes away and $5.
Great for tent camping. Really quiet and nice views
Camping sites near Tennessee Ridge, Tennessee provide a mix of primitive forest settings and developed lakeside camping options. Dispersed camping opportunities exist throughout the region with most sites within a 15-mile radius of Tennessee Ridge. Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley dominate the landscape, offering water access at most camping areas with elevations rarely exceeding 500 feet. Summer humidity levels typically reach 70-80% during peak camping months.
Kayaking at Boswell Landing: Launch directly from campsites at this primitive camping area on Kentucky Lake. "We were 100ft. From the lake and had so many trees to use for our hammocks. One of the best camping sites I've had in a long time!" notes Brooklyn L., who appreciated the convenient boat ramp and inherited firewood from fellow campers at Boswell Landing Campground.
Hiking near Montgomery Bell: Explore historical sites throughout this 3,850-acre state park. "There is a beautiful waterfall and an adorable old church," shares Faith S. about Montgomery Bell State Park Campground, which features multiple trail options suitable for different skill levels. Tammy P. adds, "The park has tons of activities and good hiking trails. Children can wade in the creek all day, why parents enjoy sitting outside under all the shade trees."
Basketball and recreation facilities: Enjoy structured recreation at Piney Campground with multiple sports courts. According to Shelly S., the campground features "a pavilion and basketball court plus several playgrounds throughout" making it ideal for active campers seeking organized recreation spaces.
Direct water access: Many campers value Kentucky Lake proximity with swim-friendly areas. Michael W. found Boswell Landing offers "shade was great. Lake is beautiful spots are gravel pads with fire ring" with easy water entry points for cooling off during hot summer days.
Spacious sites at Piney Campground: Campers appreciate the room to spread out at Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area Piney Campground. "HUGE lakeside campsite. Only downside is no water so come prepared," notes Michael L., while Rob T. explains there are "multiple areas with community water spigots. Fill up your freshwater before you get to your site!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Despite being developed, many campgrounds maintain natural settings. Shy-Anne W. was impressed that at Piney Campground she "saw a lot of wildlife for such a big campground with lots of people traffic," indicating good habitat preservation despite camping infrastructure.
Water availability varies dramatically: Stewart State Forest requires complete self-sufficiency. Douglas K. advises campers at Stewart State Forest that "there is no water, so bring plenty. There is a spring, however you have to know where it is. The closest store is about 5 miles away near Tennessee Ridge."
Factory noise at some lakefront sites: Be aware of industrial sounds at certain campgrounds. Jeff F. cautions about Lakefront Campground: "Beautiful view of the river and water access but the bad smells coming from the factory across the river is almost unbearable at times."
Seasonal hunting activity: Prepare for increased forest use during hunting seasons. Douglas K. notes about Stewart State Forest: "Please be aware that hunting is allowed in this area, so deer and turkey seasons could present issues for those who are looking for peace and quite."
Child-friendly water areas: Several campgrounds feature calm water access. Chris R. notes about Piney Campground: "Water was warm and calm being off the main lake. Piney cove is pretty shallow and we could walk out into the water a good 30-40ft before getting too deep. Bottom is soft mud."
Playground access: Paris Landing State Park Campground offers multiple recreation facilities for children. Kim B. explains the park has "sports fields, pool, restaurant, and other activities make this a less nature-oriented campground but there's boating too."
Bicycle-friendly campgrounds: Many children enjoy biking at certain campgrounds. Ronnie S. rates Piney Campground highly: "Been going here since I was a kid. Its a great place to camp with great bike trails and everything you need."
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. Joel R. warns about Paris Landing State Park: "Paris Landing State Park has about 70 campsites, most with water and electric hookups, but it is not easy to fine a level site."
Direction accuracy concerns: GPS reliability can be questionable in rural areas. Gary P. advises about Lakefront Campground: "Do NOT follow your gps!!! Go to Camden then follow the state park signs (Hwy 191) 8 plus miles to the park."
Campground layout complications: Some campgrounds have confusing traffic patterns. Todd M. explains his experience at Lakefront Campground: "It's a tight fit and our rig is only 22.5' TT. Our back in site was to the left on a one way road that I had to turn around and go opposite way so we could get in."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Tennessee Ridge, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Tennessee Ridge, TN offers a wide range of camping options, with 140 campgrounds and RV parks near Tennessee Ridge, TN and 7 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Tennessee Ridge, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Tennessee Ridge, TN is Piney Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 26 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Tennessee Ridge, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 free dispersed camping spots near Tennessee Ridge, TN.
What parks are near Tennessee Ridge, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Tennessee Ridge, TN that allow camping, notably Barkley Lake and Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area.
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