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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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.
What you should know
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."
Tips for camping with families
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."
Tips from RVers
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."
