South Cumberland State Park's Foster Falls Campground sits within a forested loop of 26 drive-in sites, ranging from open, closely spaced spots near the entrance to more private, brush-buffered sites toward the outer edge of the loop. Sites 1 through 13 in the center offer ample shade from tall trees but little visual separation from neighbors. Sites 17 through 26 provide more buffer between them, though they tend to run smaller and many include designated tent pads. Site 16 is notably large but has power lines running through it, and site 8 sits directly adjacent to a trail leading to the falls overlook.
The campground's main draw is its proximity to Foster Falls. The waterfall and its swimming hole are a short walk from camp, and the water runs coolest and most forceful in spring. By summer the falls may slow to a trickle, though the swimming hole remains a popular destination in the heat. The Grundy Forest Campground — South Cumberland State Park and Small Wilds Campground — South Cumberland State Park are also accessible from this part of the park, making Foster Falls a practical base for campers planning to cover multiple sections of South Cumberland.
Amenities include flush toilets, showers, drinking water, picnic tables on concrete slabs, and firewood availability. Reservations are required. The bathrooms receive morning cleanings on weekdays, though weekend upkeep has been inconsistent according to multiple reviewers. No electrical hookups are available, and generators are not permitted, so RV campers should plan accordingly. Stephanie J. notes the concrete table slabs "makes it easier to clean up any food that falls while eating," a small but practical detail for families.
Noise is worth factoring into site selection. A rooster from a nearby farm starts up around 4 a.m. and continues through the day. Highway traffic from 18-wheelers is audible at night from some sites. Weekends draw more campers and can get loud, while weeknight visits tend to be quieter, though enforcement of quiet hours has been reported as inconsistent. Poison ivy has been spotted along the outer boundaries of some sites, beyond the timber borders. Cell service on Verizon has been reported as adequate. Those looking for camping near South Cumberland State Park will find additional options spread across the park's various access points. Father Adamz Campground — South Cumberland State Park is another nearby option for campers who want a different site configuration.
Description
FOSTER FALLS CAMPGROUND - Open to Vehicles - Reservations Required The Foster Falls campground has 26 rustic campsites ideal for tents or small trailers. The Foster Falls Campground is the only camping area in the park where guests may park a car and/or pop-ups next to the campsite. The campground is open year-round. All sites have a fire ring and a picnic table. Most sites are wooded, offering some shade and have a level, gravel surface. A few are on a slight incline. There are no water or electric hook-ups but a restroom and heated showers are available. No gas generators are allowed at the Foster Falls Campground. BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING - Reservations Required South Cumberland boasts over 90 miles of backpacking trails with 93 campsites, eight group sites and one rustic lodge, the Hobbs Cabin. These campsites are located within 12 designated back country campgrounds across the Fiery Gizzard and Savage Gulf trail systems. South Cumberland encourages visitors to reserve your campsite early to ensure you have a site upon arrival. Remember, follow all park rules and be prepared to have a rewarding backcountry experience. All campsites are limited to four adults and two children. Children are defined as ages 13 and younger. Site capacity information can be found under site features on the campsite reservation page. Please look closely at your campsite's capacity when reserving. Each site has a designated fire ring. Hiking is required to reach the sites, although a few sites are available at only 120 yards from the parking lot. Water must be filtered from natural sources or carried in, be sure to check with the ranger stations about water availability. A pit toilet is also available at each campground. South Cumberland has primitive group campsites at most Savage Gulf campgrounds. These sites can accommodate from 30-60 campers, depending on the site and location.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsFoster Falls Campground is located in Tennessee near Tracy City
Public CampgroundDirections
Take either Exit 134 or 135 off I-24.Turn right on Hwy. 41S for 4.5 miles. Visitor Center is on the left.
Coordinates
35.25663586161267 N
85.79122463783233 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GGood Coverage- Verizon5GGood CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 8/18/26
AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- Verizon5GGood CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 8/18/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
Drive Time
- 54 min from Chattanooga, TN
- 1 hr 10 min from Cleveland, TN
- 1 hr 22 min from Huntsville, AL
- 1 hr 55 min from Rome, GA
