Tent campsites near Smyrna, Tennessee are concentrated within 30-45 minutes of town, offering camping options along the Cumberland River and the Percy Priest Reservoir watershed. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F from June through August, making spring and fall ideal for primitive camping. Most primitive sites in this region require reservations and have limited availability during peak weekends.
What to do
Waterfront fishing: At Stones River Getaway, campers can access shoreline fishing directly from their tent sites. The property features five designated tent areas with direct water access for anglers.
Wildlife observation: Lone Branch campground offers abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. "One great thing about this campground is that there is wildlife everywhere. We saw so many Whitetail Deer, it was amazing. They would just come into the campground, feed and walk around," notes Melani T.
Backpacking practice: First-time backpackers can test their gear and skills on less demanding terrain before tackling more difficult routes. Several campsites require carrying supplies moderate distances, making them perfect training grounds for longer expeditions.
Kayaking: Multiple launch points around Percy Priest Lake provide paddling access. "I've only been here kayaking but it's nice and clean," reports Tya T. about Laguardo recreation area.
What campers like
Secluded tent spots: Primitive campsites often provide more privacy than developed campgrounds. At Bells Bend Park, "10 total sites. No drive up. Pack it in, pack it out. Firewood provided. Call the outdoor center for availability," explains Krista A.
Night sky viewing: Several camping areas feature minimal light pollution for stargazing. Campers mention the expansive sky views at tent sites on hillsides. "Clear nights with a bright moon were magical here," writes one camper about Turnhole Backcountry Campsite.
Swimming access: Natural swimming areas are available at several locations. At Long Hunter State Park Campground, "It is a great swimming spot with flat rocks to hang out on," according to Mandy C.
Urban proximity: Several tent camping options exist surprisingly close to Nashville while maintaining a natural setting. "The property is 12 minutes from downtown Nashville, making it a perfect Glamping location. Being close to great restaurants is definitely a plus," notes Nate H. about Whooping Crane Farm.
What you should know
Tick activity: Insects can be problematic during summer months. "However, it was the most ticks any of us had seen, including tiny seed ticks. We left with multiple bites, and were constantly picking them off each other and our gear," warns a Long Hunter State Park visitor.
Water filtration needs: Many primitive sites lack potable water sources. "Despite this campsite being surrounded by the Green River on 3 sides, water is hard to come by here, and hiking it in may be your best bet," advises Mandy C. about Turnhole Backcountry Campsite.
Bathroom facilities: Most primitive tent sites offer minimal or no bathroom facilities. Where provided, facilities are often basic—"The 'loo' is a pop up tent with a bucket toilet in it. It was equipped with poop bags and toilet paper," explains Lori H. about Whooping Crane Farm.
Reservation requirements: Many tent camping areas require advance booking. For Bells Bend Park, rates are "$10.00 a night per site for Davidson Co. residents, $11.00 a night per site for out of County residents, you can reserve all 10 sites for $50.00."
Tips for camping with families
Short hiking distances: For young campers, choose sites with minimal hiking distances. "Even though 6 miles is quite the hike for a young Girl Scout Troop just to reach our Campsite it was beyond worth it!" shares Sasha R. about Long Hunter State Park.
Wildlife education opportunities: Many sites offer excellent wildlife viewing for educational experiences. At Lone Branch, "We saw so many Whitetail Deer... They would just come into the campground, feed and walk around. They didn't see too worried or scared of us or others around. We also saw some wild turkey."
Swimming safety: When camping with children near water, research shoreline conditions first. Several sites have challenging shoreline access with steep banks or rocky terrain that may be unsuitable for younger children.
Heat preparation: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, requiring extra precautions with children. Pack additional water, sun protection, and consider sites with natural shade or water access for cooling off.
Tips from RVers
RV-to-tent options: Several locations allow RVers to set up tents at their sites for additional sleeping space. "Great place to camp both RV and primitive!" notes Joshua G. about Long Hunter State Park.
Day-use for tent excursions: RVers can use several campgrounds as base camps while setting up tents at more primitive sites for overnight adventures, returning to full hookups afterward.
Site terrain challenges: Most tent-only sites in the region feature uneven ground. "Primitive camping, in the trees on a hill," describes Shelly S. about Bells Bend Park, indicating terrain that would be impossible for RVs but works for tenters.
