Frozen Head State Park offers primitive and modern camping options within 24,000 acres of wilderness. Located in the Cumberland Mountains at elevations between 1,300 and 3,300 feet, the area receives an average of 55 inches of rainfall annually. Campgrounds near Wartburg remain open year-round with some seasonal closures from November through March.
What to do
Hiking challenges: Take on the challenging trails at Frozen Head State Park Campground, where multiple paths lead to waterfalls and observation points. "A truly beautiful well kept secret of TN. Beautiful grounds and wonderful waterfalls!!" notes Amy P., highlighting the natural attractions that remain less crowded than other regional parks.
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line at Big Ridge State Park Campground where the lake provides good fishing spots directly from some campsites. "Great place to swim for the summer with the kids," mentions Brooke M., while another camper points out that several sites are "right next to the water which is great for kayaking and water adventures."
Historical exploration: Visit the historic areas around Sweetwater, approximately 40 minutes from Wartburg. The area features an underground lake and historic sites worth exploring. "Very nice area, close to a historic area and site seeing underground lake," notes Luis G. about his stay at Sweetwater KOA during fall.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Cumberland Mountain State Park Campground maintains well-kept bathhouses and shower facilities. "This campground has everything you need and nothing you don't. The prices are reasonable and the hiking trails within the park start right next to the campsites," writes Paige D., who appreciated the quiet atmosphere.
Glamping comfort near Wartburg, Tennessee: Deer Run RV Resort offers glamping accommodations about 45 minutes from Wartburg. "Very friendly owners of this campground. Well stocked fishing lake. Reasonably priced. Well taken care of. Level camp sites with plenty of room for larger campers," reports Dennis B., highlighting amenities that complement the glamping experience.
Privacy options: Blue Heron Campground at Big South Fork National River offers secluded sites with natural barriers. "Spaces are spacious with gravel campsites and paved rv parking at campsites. Water and electric at each site. Clean bathrooms with showers," notes Susan B., who appreciated the quiet campground environment.
What you should know
Gate closing times: Be aware of park entrance gate schedules when planning your arrival. "We had a great time. The gates get locked so make sure you arrive early. We got locked out and couldn't contact anyone. Other than that first night, we had a great time," warns Melanie G. about her experience at Frozen Head State Park.
Cell service limitations: Expect limited connectivity at most campgrounds. "There is no wifi and no cell phone reception," reports Mary D. about Frozen Head State Park, while another camper at Windrock Campground notes "No WiFi" but still rates it highly.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for snake sightings during warmer months. "Be advised, the last two years there's been baby copperhead snakes that hang around outside the bath house at night," cautions Laura D. from her repeated visits to Frozen Head State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Sweetwater KOA offers extensive facilities for children. "This place is awesome place for family fun!! Lots of stuff for kids to do, and fun organized social gatherings! Staff super helpful and friendly," reports Matthew A., highlighting the family-oriented atmosphere.
Cycling options: Bring bikes for kids to ride around campgrounds with minimal traffic. "My daughter (9 yrs) brought her bike and was able to ride all around the camp site & have a blast," shares Liz A. about her experience at Frozen Head State Park.
Swimming areas: Plan for water activities during summer months when temperatures rise. "The campground is wooded and perfect for that woodsy camp feel. There are so many hiking trails around I absolutely loved the little library they had," notes Mary D. about her lifelong connection to Frozen Head State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks as many sites require adjustment. "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," advises Kc K. about Big Ridge State Park.
Road width considerations: Navigate narrow access roads carefully with larger rigs. "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," warns Kc K. about Big Ridge State Park's interior roads.
Sewer hookup positioning: Check hookup locations before setting up. "At our particular sight the sewer was toward the front of the sight but I had enough hose to get to it," notes Tanner H. about his stay at Caney Creek RV Resort & Marina, which offers full hookups for glamping-style comfort close to Wartburg, Tennessee.
