Fall Creek Falls State Park offers outdoor experiences in the Cumberland Plateau region, with elevations ranging from 800 to 1,200 feet. The area features limestone bluffs, dense hardwood forests, and numerous waterfalls creating a diverse ecosystem for campers. Weather conditions vary significantly throughout the year, with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and winter temperatures often dropping below freezing.
What to do
Hike the Woodland Trail: Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground connects directly to hiking paths suitable for various skill levels. "There is a great trail that connects the campgrounds with the Woodland Trail. Once you've parked at the campground, there's no need to get in your car until you leave!" notes Rebecca P.
Explore multiple waterfalls: Savage Falls Campground offers access to dramatic cascades along hiking routes. "Great site right above the falls. A short walk down to a perfect little perch over the top of the falls and the stairs to the bottom," shares Jason J.
Try water activities: Rock Island State Park Campground provides options for swimming, fishing, and paddling. "The kids had the best time. Thinking about going back this weekend!" says Drew E. who visited the swimming area with a day pass ($5 per adult, children under 6 free).
Visit historical sites: Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park preserves Native American earthworks dating back 2,000 years. "This is a unique State Park worth the drive. Duck River flows through the area with several waterfall breaks along its course. It's not hard to imagine why the Native Americans considered this area spiritually significant," explains Shelly S.
What campers like
Spacious camping platforms: Edgar Evins State Park Campground features unique elevated wooden platforms for camping. "We love the platform sites that are so spacious and private. Easy access to dump station and bath houses. Almost all sites have view of water," reports Betheny.
Primitive camping options: Alum Gap Campground provides secluded backcountry sites with basic amenities. "Perched on the rim and a nexus of trails that will take you to everything you want to see in this part of the park. Short hike in (3 miles from Stone Door lot). Views of canyon in winter," shares Jason J.
Glamping near Walling: Spacious Skies Belle Ridge offers luxury tent camping with amenities. "The overlook has a 'Wow' view. Very quiet despite being not far from the main road," notes Jason K. This glamping destination in Walling, Tennessee region provides a more comfortable outdoor experience.
Clean facilities: Cumberland Mountain State Park maintains well-kept restrooms and grounds. "We had such a great time at Cumberland Mountain State Park! Area 1 was especially nice and shaded. It was quiet, clean, and so easy to enjoy," Mary D. shares about her recent visit.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the Walling area require advance booking, especially during peak seasons (May-October). Sites can be reserved through individual park websites or by calling directly.
Fire restrictions: Some primitive camping areas have seasonal fire bans. At Savage Falls, one camper noted "There are NO facilities so be prepared for that" and mentioned seeing bear activity in the area.
Platform camping challenges: Smooth Rapids Campground offers unique sites but with considerations. "Smooth rapids is located right on the river, and right in the town of McMinnville. Not far from several hiking areas, rock climbing spots, swimming holes and waterfalls," notes Lori H., though another camper cautioned about accessibility: "The entrance and exit is very narrow and steep even for our Sprinter motorhome, let alone something larger."
Water safety: During heavy rains, some waterfall areas become dangerous. "Make sure you do three things while you're there: hike to the bottom of the big waterfall (Fall Creek Falls), swim in the cascades next to the nature center, and stand on the edge of the bluff at Buzzard's Roost," recommends Myke C.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established campgrounds: Fall Creek Falls provides family-friendly amenities. "A Great Place for New Campers! We love to camp at Fall Creek Falls State Park and think this would be a great park for novice campers due to the fact that the facilities are very nice," says Sandra V.
Look for swimming options: The Walling area offers several supervised swimming locations during summer. "The nearby swimming beach was great for the kids. Many short hiking options available," shares Christy E. about Rock Island State Park.
Consider glamping yurts: Glamping in Walling, Tennessee area provides easier camping experiences for families with young children. "The site was great with everything out back. Peaceful site," mentions Beth LeVar L. about her family's stay at a more comfortable accommodation.
Plan for weather changes: Cumberland Mountain State Park Campground offers both sunny and rainy day activities. "This is a larger state park that includes a restaurant, golf course, pool, etc. but also some nice trails to enjoy the natural beauty of the area," notes Lynn G.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions: Many campgrounds have limitations on RV size. "We visited this state park in our 40 foot motorhome. While there are only a few spots that will accommodate a rig this large, it's worth the time to haunt the reservation system and snag one," advises Cheryl C. about Rock Island State Park.
Consider seasonal traffic: Summer months bring more visitors to popular glamping sites near Walling. Tennessee luxury accommodations fill quickly from June-August.
Know hookup availability: "Camper pads are all paved but vary in length from 18 to 51 feet. The width of some can also accommodate two cars side by side. Not all are completely level. Each site has a picnic table, lantern hook, fire ring, and grill. All sites have electricity and water, and eight of the 50 sites are FHU," notes Lee D. about the amenities at Rock Island.
Road conditions: Some access roads can be challenging. "The road to the park is winding but we had no issues. Nice big sites with picnic area and fire ring," shares Cheryl C., noting that proper planning makes these routes manageable even for larger vehicles.
