Savage Falls Campground, near Savage Gulf State Park, is a fantastic spot for those who love a bit of adventure and solitude. This place is all about the great outdoors, with tent and glamping options available for your stay.

The campground is known for its stunning views and proximity to the falls, making it a prime location for those who enjoy hiking. Visitors rave about the short hike to the campsite, which is less than two miles and leads to secluded spots that offer a peaceful escape. One camper described it as “the perfect spot for a short hike-in backcountry camping experience.”

Amenities are pretty basic here, so be prepared for a primitive camping experience. There’s no drinking water or electric hookups, and you’ll need to bring your own supplies, including water. But don’t let that deter you; the natural beauty and tranquility of the area more than make up for it. As one reviewer put it, “You gotta be super fit to get to this place but once you do, it's AMAZING.”

If you’re looking to explore, the Savage Gulf area offers some of the best hiking and backpacking in Middle Tennessee. The trails are well-marked, and you’ll find breathtaking views of the Cumberland Plateau, especially in the fall when the foliage is vibrant. Whether you're hiking to the falls or just soaking in the scenery, Savage Falls Campground is a great choice for those seeking a memorable outdoor experience.

Savage Falls Campground — Savage Gulf State Park

Searching for the best camping near Palmer, TN? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Palmer. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Palmer and user-submitted reviews.

Palmer

The Best Camping Near Palmer, Tennessee

Backpack in , totally primitive sites. Take your own water or filtration system. Hobbs Cabin is available by reservation, close to the tent sites. Bring an air mattress for the wood bunks. Otherwise love, love, loved the adventure, hike, backpack in:)

Awesome scenery/hike!

Savage Gulf Natural Area is massive with several miles between entrance points that lead to stunning overlooks of the gorges and gulfs, and several miles worth of trails within each location. I visited in early October and plan on revisiting during more colorful time in the landscape and after a good rain to see what must be rapid waterfalls and streams. There were interesting bridges over the water ways, wifi available at the ranger station and quaint camping within an easy walk from the parking lot. I didn't see another person the whole time I was hiking and camping which is exactly what I was looking for. The trails do follow through slopes and boulders so the difficulty varies, I broke a sweat. I also saw that one of the trails leads to a cabin that I didn't see this time. It was beautiful.

Perfect for solitude

Savage gulf in Bersheba Springs, TN near Monteagle is absolutely some of the best hiking and backpacking you can find in Middle TN. The Stone Door trail is a paved in &amp; out trail that's manageable for hikers of all ages and abilities, complete with stunning views of the Cumberland Plateau - it's incredible in the fall. You can climb down the steep stairs through stone door to reach connecting trails to back country campsites. I hiked down "Fiery Gizzard" and it was an easy ten-mile hike to our site, perfect for beginners and kids. I especially love this place in the Fall!

Photos below were posted on two separate trips to Stone Door/ Savage Gulf area

Best place to backpack in Middle TN!!

camp ground at Alum Gap is Nice, Water a short walk from camp site if you are backpacking. My husband and I are very fond of this particular camp site.

wonderful with water close by for backpacking, love this camp ground 

You gotta be super fit to get to this place but once you do, it's AMAZING. I did notice bear scat on my hike in and that was a bit of a concern but once everyone settled in at night, it was great. There are NO facilities so be prepared for that.

Hike in/out - be fit!

I’m not much for hike in to camp but I did really enjoy savage falls trail and the falls. There is a big parking area but it can fill up fast with those that are day hiking to see the falls. It’s not a tough hike to the campsite or to the falls themselves. Definitely one trip I will always remember 

Hike in

Prefect spot for a short hike-in backcountry camping experience. The hike in is less than two miles and the camp sites are secluded and spread apart. Highly recommend!


Perfect 

Great site right above the falls. A short walk down to a perfect little perch over the top of the falls and the stairs to the bottom. Fee to reserve is nominal and there is a 10% discount for TN residents.

Photos of Savage Falls Campground — Savage Gulf State Park

Real photos from real campers