Situated in the Cumberland Plateau, Whitwell, Tennessee sits at approximately 750 feet elevation with dramatic sandstone bluffs and dense hardwood forests defining the landscape. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging in the mid-80s and winters rarely dropping below 30°F, creating year-round cabin camping opportunities. Local waterways including the Sequatchie River offer both recreational activities and scenic backdrops for cabins.
What to do
Explore cave systems: Raccoon Mountain Caverns is just 30 minutes from Whitwell and offers guided underground tours. "The caverns and tour are awesome! Campground is meh, nothing spectacular but not terrible, kind of average. The pool is decent, playgrounds are old but still fun," notes Greg S. about Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground.
Hike to waterfalls: Foster Falls is approximately 5 miles from Fireside Camp + Lodge, with its 60-foot waterfall and swimming hole. "Adventure calls within a 5-50 mile radius, with Foster Falls' breathtaking waterfall and hiking trails just 5 miles away," explains Peter D. about Fireside Camp + Lodge.
Fishing opportunities: Marion County Park provides direct water access with multiple fishing spots. "We put our boat in here and spend the weekends on the river. Not the nicest place in the world, but it's quite and beautiful," shares Alex S., who visits frequently during summer months.
What campers like
Secluded cabin sites: Cloudland Canyon State Park offers spacious cabins set apart from other camping areas. "They are well appointed, well maintained, and absolutely beautiful, and are spaced out to offer a feeling of seclusion," describes Stephanie J. about Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground.
Rustic cabins with creature comforts: Camp Chet provides basic but comfortable accommodations. "We stayed in The Pepoon Cabin and the bed was so comfortable! There was a gas heater we didn't end up using, but good to know for future colder visits. The hosts left plenty of electric lanterns for us to use," writes Alycia J. about her experience at Camp Chet.
River views: Many cabins near Whitwell offer water views, especially at Marion County Park. "Our site was on the water and the view was awesome. I worried that there would be a lot of noise because it's so close to I-24 but there wasn't," reports Alicia B.
What you should know
Bathroom facility variations: Holiday Travel Park offers clean facilities but limited privacy. "The bathrooms are great," notes Lois H., while Lori H. provides more detail: "The restrooms and showers were also very clean and well kept."
Kitchen supplies: While some cabins come fully stocked, others require bringing your own cooking equipment. At Fireside Camp + Lodge, "There's a shed with games for hanging out, a porta potty, and a shower house with hot water," according to Angie A., and they have "a barn common area with a fridge, microwave, coffee maker, comfy seating, and power outlets."
Seasonal considerations: Fall Creek Falls State Park remains open year-round but experiences different crowd levels. "We are definitely going back in summer to get wet in the falls and creeks. Can't swim in lake but you can kayak," mentions Richard F. about planning return visits.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Fall Creek Falls State Park offers numerous recreation options. "There's tons to do from hiking, to swimming, waterfall gazing, rock climbing, ziplining, and much more," explains Brandie D. about Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground.
Swimming options: Chester Frost Park features a man-made beach area specifically designed for families. "This place is definitely somewhere you wanna bring your kids they would love it! There is a man made beach with a playground and loads of camping lots next to the river," recommends Haley H. about Chester Frost Park.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Raccoon Mountain, "The staff are so attentive, they are very accessible and are present all day into the evening without being intrusive. They ensure you get to your site and are satisfied," says Jessie D., who also notes the campground has "lots of kids running strong doing what kids do."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Holiday Travel Park, site location matters significantly. "Only thing I'd suggest is requesting a site not under water. Many had standing water," advises Heather H., who stayed there while traveling.
Leveling considerations: Many cabin and RV sites in the mountainous terrain require leveling equipment. At Fall Creek Falls, Richard F. advises: "Pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out."
Arrival timing: Multiple RVers recommend arriving during daylight hours. At Fall Creek Falls, Richard notes: "Arrived in the dark, do not recommend as there are not much lighting to see especially if the sites is tight with others."
