Camping sites near Winchester, Tennessee center around Tims Ford Lake, a 10,700-acre reservoir with 265 miles of shoreline. The area sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation in the eastern Highland Rim region, characterized by limestone bedrock and rolling hills. Most campgrounds operate year-round with peak season running April through October when temperatures range from 60°F to 90°F.
What to do
Hiking at Cloudland Canyon: Located 1.5 hours from Winchester, this state park offers challenging terrain with significant elevation changes. "The park can be spoken of in two separate sections; the East Rim and the West Rim. The East Rim is home to several cabins, the group lodge, one of the full service campgrounds, and the main trailhead, as well as the ADA accessible overlook trail which is where many of the iconic photographs of this park come from," notes Stephanie J. of Cloudland Canyon State Park Campground.
Fishing access: Many sites feature direct fishing access to Tims Ford Lake. "We were in a 35' 5th Wheel. Most sites easy access, some sites maybe tight for bigger Rigs. Some sites have Full Hook-up, 50 amp. (Sewer not available on water sites.) This campground is family friendly. Great for kayaking, fishing, swimming, and family gathering," says Becky S. of Fairview Campground.
Whiskey tourism: The Jack Daniel's Distillery in Lynchburg sits just 20 minutes from Winchester camping areas. "Jack Daniel's Distillery is close buy & so worth doing the tour and tasting. Jack did a lot for the people that worked for him & the town," reports B M. of Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park.
What campers like
Waterfall access: Multiple parks feature waterfalls within hiking distance. "Hiking weekend. Sites were nice. Not many great trails. Bathrooms were below par. Site had all of the amenities. Nice place to kayak. Will go back," says Marty B. of Tims Ford State Park Main Campground.
Lakefront views: Many sites provide direct water access for swimming and boating. "Electric and water hookups are on left side of campsite. Pretty good fishing. Boat ramp just down from campsites," notes Gary from Twin Creeks RV Resort.
Privacy at backcountry sites: For those seeking seclusion, boat-in or hike-in sites provide more isolated experiences. "Great time, one of the larger islands, great lake views. Only down side is the paddle to the island, not hard or difficult, the boat traffic and lack of respect for kayakers was concerning," reports Buddy G. about camping on Leatherwood Island.
What you should know
Bathhouse conditions vary: Facilities range significantly across campgrounds. "Bathrooms were not the most maintained but like state park for its location. Lots of louder families while we were there," notes Sarah N. about Foster Falls.
Road and site conditions: Some campgrounds feature newly paved sites while others have more rustic accommodations. "We had the best time! Loved being right on the lake," says Misty C. about Fairview Campground.
Primitive backcountry options: For more adventurous campers, backcountry sites require boat or hiking access. "We visit here every summer, great paddling, few cliffs to jump off of, awesome old cemetery right beside campsite. All in all. Great place to unwind," says Buddy G. about Devils Step Island.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots: Look for designated swimming areas at campgrounds during summer months. "The campsite is not immediately at the parking lot so you will have to hike/carry your belongings almost an hour before getting to the site. Be cautious of weather because the trail can get fairly muddy if it has rained heavy recently," advises Ethan K. about Walls of Jericho.
Playground access: Several campgrounds include playgrounds for children. "This is a place that I grew up camping with my family, and spent countless days on our pontoon boat or kayaks on Tim's Ford Lake. It's a lovely, quiet campground with a great nature center, hiking trails, playgrounds, a pool, and lake access for boating and swimming," shares Phoebe A.
Creek exploration: Children enjoy creek areas for wading and rock skipping. "The kids had a blast skipping rocks, and exploring the creek. Great weekend get away. Not far from Lynchburg and the Jack Daniels distillery," reports Holly M. of Caney Hollow Creek Retreat.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Pay attention to utility placement when setting up. "Gravel roads and level pads. We stopped overnight and did not have to disconnect, as we were perfectly level," notes Scotty W.
Site selection guidance: Some campgrounds provide staff assistance with site selection and setup. "The staff was awesome. They came by and treated us, offered to help us get backed in. Brought firewood and just came by to say hi. The grounds were clean as well as the bath houses," shares Tim M.
Communal fire rings: Some RV parks use communal fire areas rather than individual fire pits. "No fire rings...but there are 10 communal ones near the water and wood is provided at no cost. Views are incredible. Perfectly positioned for amazing sunsets," reports Susan & Kevin W.
