Camping options near Waverly, Tennessee extend beyond the established campgrounds of Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park and surrounding facilities. The region sits at the junction of the Western Highland Rim and Tennessee River Valley, creating diverse terrain for camping at elevations ranging from 375 to 650 feet above sea level. Winter camping temperatures typically range from 28°F to 48°F, while summer averages remain between 68°F and 88°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Water activities on Kentucky Lake: At Lakefront Campground, water access is a primary attraction. "We enjoyed our visit and the wonderful view, but if we return, we will get a site further from the boat access ramp. There are 2 ramps, but everyone wants to use the one right in the middle of the site at zero dark thirty," notes Jeff B.
Hiking trails: The state parks surrounding Waverly offer numerous trail options with varying difficulty levels. A camper at Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park Group Campground shared: "This is the BEST state park in West TN. It's quiet, depending on your camping neighbors, and just sitting on the banks watching the boats go by is peaceful."
Historical exploration: The region contains significant Civil War sites and historical landmarks. "Lovely little campground, but beautiful & serene. Lots of great trails to hike. A good place for a Civil War history buff," writes Jessica B. about backcountry camping options in the area.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the room to spread out at certain campgrounds. At Montgomery Bell State Park Campground, campers enjoy the layout: "The state park is absolutely gorgeous. We chose to stay in the tent only camping sites. They are spread out far enough that you don't feel like you are in one another space," explains Lexi S.
River access: Direct water access ranks high among camper preferences. A visitor to Piney River Resort shared: "This place is amazing! Clean, quiet and waterfront. We stayed in a river front pavilion. That side of the campground is not crowded. The water is crystal clear and cold. We sat in beach chairs and let the current wash over us."
Seasonal activities: The region offers different experiences throughout the year. "We've stayed 6 times at MB, it's my partners fave place to go. With a great pavilion, Vb court, ball diamond, and playground, the far side of the camp is perfect for families, groups, and events," explains Stæven F. about Montgomery Bell State Park.
What you should know
Factory noise concerns: Some waterfront camping areas experience industrial noise. At Lakefront Campground, one camper reported: "Beautiful view of the river and water access but the bad smells coming from the factory across the river is almost unbearable at times the EPA needs to come do an air quality test when they release whatever it is."
Seasonal maintenance variations: Facility upkeep can vary by season and campground. "The bathrooms were clean, but are in bad need of updates, as are the shower facilities. Showers were luke warm, some had non-functioning heaters in them, and a lot of rust and broken shelving," noted a visitor to Piney Campground.
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approach roads. A camper at Piney River Resort warned: "Staff we talked to was very kind but the drive in from the highway was very scary on narrow, windy roads with dropoffs on the side. We took the staff recommended route in and Co-Pilot's route out and both were scary in our Class A towing a car hauler."
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: When booking sites, check proximity to play areas. "We've stayed 6 times at MB, it's my partners fave place to go. Our fave sites are 1-8, with #1+2 right next to the creek and the most updated bathrooms. If you don't want kiddos walking through your campsite to get to the playground, you may want to choose a higher number," advises a Montgomery Bell camper.
Waterfront safety: Choose sites with safe water access for children. A visitor to Happy Hollow Campground noted: "Great campground, definitely a hidden gem. It's about 15 minutes from the nearest town with 50/30/110 electrical, water hookups, and a dumping station on the way out."
Off-season visits: Consider camping during shoulder seasons for fewer crowds. "The campground was mediocre. The campground is alive. There are a lot of people that traverse this place. The river is amazing. I can't say enough good things about it," writes Kyle G. about Piney Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds present leveling difficulties. "We had a site up on hill farther from the river (which was lovely) but we couldn't get level and couldn't put out our slides. All around rough stay. I'd say this is a much better stay for smaller RVs," noted a camper at Piney River Resort.
Hookup positioning: Check utility location before selecting sites. "We stayed in a site with a pavilion right on the river and it was great! Our girls enjoyed swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Paved sites, fire ring, fire wood for sale, very clean campground, and only 45 mins to Nashville," shares Ashlee B. about Piney River Resort.
Highway noise considerations: For quieter stays, select sites away from major roads. A camper at Tanbark Campground shared: "Far enough from the 40 you can sleep without the constant highway noise. Full hook up's however the elbow for the tank won't attach. 30/50 Amp and water."
