The Tracy City area of Tennessee offers camping experiences on the scenic Cumberland Plateau, sitting at approximately 1,800 feet elevation. This higher elevation creates milder summer temperatures compared to nearby valleys, with evening temperatures often dropping 15-20 degrees lower than daytime highs. Most campgrounds in this region feature rocky terrain with mixed hardwood forests that provide partial shade throughout the camping season.
What to do
Waterfall swimming: 5 miles from Tracy City at Foster Falls Campground, visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip. "Camping was easy and bathrooms were clean. Really beautiful scenery on somewhat strenuous hikes to waterfalls, some good sport climbing, and a few trails that will take you really high up so you can look down at the beautiful green canopy (or orange if it's fall). Beautiful spot any time of year but we like to go when it's warm enough to swim in the waterfall," notes Kelly M.
Rock climbing: Short walk from campsite at multiple locations near Tracy City. Foster Falls is particularly popular. "Showers and quiet. No RV hookups or generators, great for real camping. Walkable to the plethora of climbing," reports Jay F. from Foster Falls Campground.
Zip lining: On-site adventure at Bigfoot Adventure RV Park & Campground in Tracy City. "Close to Mount Eagle. Large pull thru site with full hookups. Live music, zip lines & frizby golf. Beautiful farm with waterfalls & lots of nearby hiking trails," says Timothy T. This activity costs $25-45 per person depending on the course selected.
Cable Trail hiking: 45 minutes from Tracy City at Fall Creek Falls State Park. "Plenty of hikes that lead to wonderful waterfalls and great scenery. My favorite is the cable trail. If I recall it's not far from the campsite," writes Tyler J. This challenging trail requires using a cable to descend to the base of the falls.
What campers like
Quiet, rustic camping settings: Fireside Camp + Lodge provides peaceful sites with minimal development. "Wide open spaces and access to amenities. The Verizon service here is great and the hosts have Wi-Fi. Close to town for your needs and 30 minutes away from Lookout mountain and those attractions," shares Stewart S.
Well-spaced primitive sites: Campers appreciate privacy at several locations. "This is a great primitive campground! Sites are large, flat and spread out. I really appreciate that the sites aren't on top of each other. There is enough room for a small camper or flat gravel area for tents," notes Shana D. about Foster Falls.
Waterfalls within walking distance: Greeter Falls Campground offers immediate access to multiple falls. "Booked two rv sites for this past Labor Day weekend for my wife and I and her sister's family. Very easy to get to, paved roads... Just past the camp store is the trailhead to the water falls. Unfortunately it was pretty dry so there wasn't much waterfall action. The upper falls was pretty cool," reports Thomas H.
Community spaces: Some campgrounds feature gathering areas. At Fireside Camp + Lodge, "One standout feature is the creative use of an old barn, which has been transformed into a hangout space. Inside, you'll find comfortable couches, hang boards for climbing enthusiasts, a vintage fridge, and even a Pac-Man game for some retro fun," explains Asher K.
What you should know
Water availability varies by season: During dry periods, especially late summer, waterfall flow diminishes significantly. "We went to the falls... Unfortunately it was pretty dry so there wasn't much waterfall action," notes Thomas H. about Greeter Falls in early September.
Bathroom facilities differ dramatically: Alum Gap Campground in Savage Gulf State Park offers minimal facilities. "Be prepared for a rustic experience, as there are no bathroom facilities or other man-made structures in sight," advises Asher K. In contrast, newer campgrounds like Greeter Falls feature "Very clean bath house and grounds," according to Jennifer U.
Cell service depends on terrain: Coverage varies throughout the plateau. "I have Verizon and had 3 bars and LTE and the data signal was strong for me. Was able to stream, FaceTime, pretty much whatever I wanted," reports Thomas H. about Greeter Falls Campground. Signal strength tends to weaken in valleys and gorges.
Some sites require advance planning: For backcountry camping, permits are needed. "To ensure a smooth camping experience, make sure to reserve a site in advance," recommends Asher K. about Alum Gap.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: For family-friendly facilities, consider Marion County Park. "Swimming, soccer, baseball, boating, disc golf, para course all right here. Water and electric at site and dump site (didn't use)," recommends Cori H.
Plan waterfall swimming days: Multiple campgrounds offer access to swimming holes. "We did this hike in the afternoon and got a nice dip in at the falls since it was such a hot day. There were lots of people there enjoying the space and everyone was incredibly friendly," shares Asher K. about Greeter Falls.
Start with short backpacking trips: For families new to backpacking, Alum Gap provides an easy introduction. "The Alum Gap campground in Savage Gulf State Natural Area was a perfect destination for a first-time backpacker. The trail is easy-moderate, mostly flat with only a few inclines," writes Brittany S.
Consider noise levels at campgrounds: Some areas have more family activity than others. At Raccoon Mountain, "We don't have kids and the place has lots of kids running strong doing what kids do. Our site would have been better for those with kids," notes Jessie D.
Tips from RVers
Check site length details: Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground can be challenging for larger RVs. "We have a 40' class A and flat tow a Jeep. We stayed in site 203 for 3 nights. While we really enjoyed the campground, this site was not ideal for an RV our size. We weren't able to put our awnings out or comfortably sit outside. Next time, we'll see if it's possible to stay in site 226," advises Jen O.
Consider leveling requirements: Many camping spots near Tracy City, Tennessee have uneven terrain. "Pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out," warns Richard F. about Fall Creek Falls State Park.
Verify hookup availability: Most sites offer partial hookups only. At Bigfoot Adventure RV Park, "Zip lining, small catch & release pond, biking, hiking, & cliff views available. It's on its way to being amazing. Gave it 4 stars because we had to move a couple of times. The electricity didn't work where we wound up camping but didn't want to move anymore," shares Arwen.
Arrive during daylight: Many campsites are difficult to navigate after dark. "Arrived in the dark, do not recommend as there are not much lighting to see especially if the sites is tight with others," cautions Richard F. about Fall Creek Falls State Park.
