Cabin camping options near Shawanee, Tennessee range from lakeside accommodations to forest settings within the Cumberland Mountains region. Elevations in this area typically range from 900 to 1,500 feet, creating varied terrain for cabin sites and outdoor activities. Campgrounds in this region operate with different seasonal schedules, with some closing during winter months while others maintain year-round availability.
What to do
Hiking trails nearby: Big Ridge State Park features multiple hiking options ranging from easy to difficult. "I've stayed at this site a couple times now and I love the location. The site is a short and easy hike (under 2 miles) from the parking lot via the Lake Trail to the Dark Hollow Trail," notes a Big Ridge State Park Campground visitor. Another camper mentions completing a 5.3-mile loop by "hiking the loop back out by continuing on Dark Hollow to Big Valley Trail, to Ghost House Trail and back to Lake Trail."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple cabin locations provide direct water access. "Nice and laid back. Bath houses are clean and one is fairly new. Some sites are right next to the water which is great for kayaking and water adventures," reports one visitor about Big Ridge State Park Campground. Fishing is popular at several locations, particularly at dawn and dusk when fish are most active.
Water recreation: Loyston Point Campground provides cabin rentals with lake access. "We were right on the lake and the grounds were very clean. The staff was so nice and always around to help if needed," states a camper at Loyston Point Campground. Another visitor appreciates how they could "pull the boat right up to our camp site."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness varies by location but receives specific praise at certain properties. "The bathhouse was nice and clean. Love having nice hot water showers," notes a camper at Clayton Geneva Memorial Campground. Regular maintenance appears to be a priority at several cabin locations, though older facilities may show wear.
Waterfront access: Many cabin sites feature direct water access or short walks to shorelines. "The water is so beautiful with the sunset shining down on it," describes a visitor at Loyston Point. This campground is particularly noted for waterfront cabins with convenient boat access.
Peace and seclusion: Several cabin locations offer private settings away from crowds. "For those who want peace and quiet, it doesn't get much better than this! It's secluded but clean, and lots of fireflies and a great view," writes a guest at Rocky Meadows Farm. The farm setting provides a different cabin experience than state park or commercial facilities.
What you should know
Site layouts vary significantly: Space between cabins ranges from crowded to spacious. "At the front of the campground are ADA sites, the second section is closest to the lake, good for fishing. Then you drive/walk up the hill past the beach area to the top level which have several sites," explains a camper at Big Ridge State Park Campground. Understanding property layouts helps select appropriate cabin locations.
Seasonal limitations: Some cabin properties operate limited schedules. "Big South Fork is a good place to stay anywhere in the park. It is truly a beautiful place," notes a camper at Blue Heron Campground who visited during peak season. Check operational dates when planning trips outside summer months.
Supply availability: Cabin sites typically require bringing basic supplies. "Don't let that discourage you. Great campground. Clean and friendly, quiet and relaxing. There is truly something for everyone here. Back country camp sites as well as camp ground with electric and bathrooms," writes a visitor to Big Ridge State Park Campground. Most locations offer firewood for purchase but limited other supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Family-friendly water access points are available at several cabin locations. "Great place to swim for the summer with the kids," mentions a visitor to Big Ridge State Park Campground. Water access varies by location, with some offering shallow swimming areas while others feature deeper water more suitable for boating.
Kid-friendly activities: Several cabin locations offer programming geared toward younger visitors. "The roads were great for the kids to ride bike and they enforced the slow speed limit for cars which was awesome. The staff was very friendly and helped out kids out when they had a small bike wreck," shares a visitor to Loyston Point Campground about the family-oriented atmosphere.
Wildlife viewing: Cabin sites often provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. "My girls loved exploring and catching fireflies. They had to steer clear of the electrified fence that hold the cattle nearby, but that was all," notes a camper at Rocky Meadows Farm. Several locations feature natural surroundings with various wildlife viewing opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Cabins with RV parking may require adjustments. "Site 43. Big site. fairly flat. Just have levelers on one side. Close to the bathhouse and a quick walk to the entrance to get to the store, swim area, etc," explains a visitor to Big Ridge State Park. Many cabin sites with RV accommodations provide level pads, but some require equipment to manage uneven terrain.
Off-season availability: Winter availability varies significantly. "Corbin n/Laurel Lake KOA. First! Do not trust your navigation. Once you get off the interstate look for the KOA signs. Your navigation will take you in a completely different direction for some reason," advises a camper at Corbin - Laurel Lake KOA, noting this is "one of the first KOA's I've been to that has good Wi-Fi."
Road conditions: Access roads to cabin sites vary in quality. "Roads are a little narrow in the campground, made it a little hard to back trailer in- the front of the truck was the issue hitting rocks on the side of the road," cautions a visitor to Big Ridge State Park Campground. RV-friendly cabin sites typically provide adequate access, though tight turns may challenge larger rigs.
