Camping options near Gladeville, Tennessee center around two major waterways: Percy Priest Lake and Old Hickory Lake. The region sits at elevations ranging from 500-700 feet above sea level with mostly hardwood forests providing natural shade at many campsites. Proximity to Nashville creates a mix of secluded wilderness camping experiences with convenient access to urban amenities within a 30-45 minute drive.
What to do
Swimming and water recreation: Seven Points Campground features a designated swimming beach with gradual entry points suitable for families. "The lake is warm, which isn't something I'm used to being from further north, but the campsites are so nicely groomed and the place is pristine. I could stay here for weeks," notes one visitor.
Hiking trails: Cedars of Lebanon State Park offers several interconnected trails through unique cedar glade habitats. "My wife and I camped here on February 15 2020. We took a walk around section 2, and section 3. There was a lot more room, and seemed a little more private," explains one camper who explored the trail system.
Fishing access: Lakefront sites at multiple campgrounds provide direct fishing access from your campsite. As one camper at Cedar Creek mentioned, "On Old Hickory Lake. Accommodates both tents and RV's. Most sites have a lovely view of the lake if not directly along the shore."
Wildlife viewing: Deer sightings are common throughout the camping areas, particularly at dawn and dusk. Waterfowl watching opportunities abound along shorelines, with multiple species visible year-round.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the generous spacing between sites at Anderson Road Campground. "Has nice space between sites, with great views," notes one reviewer. Another mentions, "Large sites right on the lake. Toilets and showers were nice and clean."
Lake views: Waterfront camping consistently receives positive feedback. "This is a great, easy access campground with great amenities. Lake front sites for campers or tents. Close to groceries and gas station," reports a camper at Seven Points.
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness varies by location but receives consistent praise at several parks. "The bathhouse is fine. Most sites seem to be large enough for a couple of tents and vehicles," mentions a visitor to Anderson Road Campground.
Proximity to supplies: Many campgrounds provide convenient access to necessary supplies. "Large level sites with some privacy. Bathrooms were super clean. Was able to get groceries and all I needed just 10 mins away," notes a Cedars of Lebanon camper.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most developed campgrounds require advance booking, especially during summer months. Site availability at Poole Knobs and other popular locations becomes limited 2-3 months in advance for weekend dates.
Bathroom accessibility: Poole Knobs campers note significant distance to facilities: "The bathrooms were ridiculously hard to get to. If you get a site along the lake, expect a long walk and then an arduous climb to the bathroom and showers or hop in your vehicle and drive there."
Wildlife concerns: Ticks can be problematic, especially in warmer months. "There are tons of deer at this park. Our dogs picked up ticks every day, and we had a few as well. Watch out for lyme and other tick born illnesses," warns a visitor to Bledsoe Creek State Park.
Noise factors: Airport proximity affects some campgrounds. "This place is on the flight path of the international airport," notes one camper at Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and kid-friendly amenities: Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort offers extensive recreation options. "The waterpark is amazing," mentions one family. However, timing matters as "the water park is only open on the weekend" during certain seasons.
Halloween activities: Seasonal events provide additional entertainment options. "Their halloween weekend is a great time of fun for the kids!" reports a Cedars of Lebanon visitor who specifically planned around this event.
Shallow water entry points: Several campgrounds offer gradual entry points to water. "We stayed on the center strip in the primitive area. The facilities were well maintained and clean. Each site has a concrete picnic table, fire ring, and a moveable lantern hook," shares a Poole Knobs camper.
Security considerations: Most campgrounds maintain good security. "Very safe. Full hookups, decent WiFi. It is a bit expensive but well worth it for the proximity to Nashville and the beauty of the site," notes a visitor to Safe Harbor RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require leveling equipment. "We stayed in site 22 which is a standard lake view I believe. That side of the park has a pretty big cliff behind it so no water access from the site. Our site was very level and clean. Hookups were easily accessible," reports a visitor to Safe Harbor RV Resort.
Hookup variations: Electric service types vary between campgrounds. One Cedars of Lebanon camper explains, "To my surprise I opened the electric pedestal, and there was only 50 amp service. I'm set up for 30 amp, so I had to use an adapter."
Road width considerations: Internal roads can create access challenges at some locations. "The road is one way and there's not enough room to get around anyone. Makes for some traffic back ups during check in and check out," notes a Safe Harbor visitor.
Dump station access: Some facilities have limited maneuvering space. "Tight fit for my 43' motorhome, especially maneuvering dump station," shares a Cedar Creek camper, highlighting the importance of checking facility dimensions before arrival.
