Top Glamping in Tennessee

Campers venturing across Tennessee have access to hiking, boating, fishing, biking, rock climbing and picnicking across 56 state parks, enough variety to satisfy any adventurer’s soul. With terrifically high Appalachian peaks and plunging caverns, Tennessee travelers can get a sense of the sublime landscape that inspired music legends from Nashville to Memphis by camping in Tennessee.

East Tennessee is home to a part of the oldest mountain range in the world, the Great Smoky Mountains. As the name suggests, the peaks are often shrouded in fog, but that doesn’t make the view from Clingmans Dome any less spectacular. At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome towers as the highest point in Tennessee and the third highest point east of the Mississippi River. Make sure to say hi to the hardcore hikers, many people hiking the entire Appalachian Trail will stop at this unforgettable lookout.

A clear day at the dome observatory provides views as far as 100 miles. But explorers camping in Tennessee should plan on hiking their way up to the point, the roadway that leads to the observatory closes during inclement weather and from Dec. 1 to March 31 every year.

If you’re camping with the kids and they’re looking for more occupation than your campsite offers, many of the natural attractions in Tennessee are also family friendly. Lookout Mountain is only minutes from Chattanooga and offers several world-famous sites like Rock City and the See Seven States point.

All the mountain peak trails may leave the heights-averse camper less than enthused. But Tennessee has something for everyone. Also at Lookout Mountain, but plummeting beneath ground level, is where you’ll find Ruby Falls, the largest and deepest underground waterfall in the nation.

Scenic views and dramatic natural landscapes are part and parcel for any Tennessee camping adventure, as long as you know where to look. Camping in Tennessee can be done right with The Dyrt to guide you along your trails!

Best Glamping Sites in Tennessee (154)

    Camper-submitted photo from Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground

    1. Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground

    144 Reviews
    633 Photos
    922 Saves
    Spencer, Tennessee

    Fall Creek Falls State Park is one of Tennessee’s largest and most visited state parks. The park encompasses more than 29,800 acres sprawled across the eastern top of the rugged Cumberland Plateau. Laced with cascades, gorges, waterfalls, streams and lush stands of virgin hardwood timber, the park beckons those who enjoy nature at her finest. Fall Creek Falls, at 256 feet, is one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern United States. Other waterfalls within the park include Piney Falls, Cane Creek Falls, and Cane Creek Cascades. The park is located in Bledsoe and Van Buren counties, 11 miles east of Spencer and 18 miles west of Pikeville. It may be entered from Highway 111 or Highway 30.

    In 1937, the federal government began purchasing the badly eroded land around Fall Creek Falls. The following year, the Works Progress Administration and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) began restoring the forest and constructing park facilities. A few years later in 1944, the National Park Service transferred ownership of the park to the State of Tennessee.

    Fall Creek Falls features 30 cabins, 222 campsites, and the 85-room Lodge Fall Creek Falls. Backcountry camping is also available with a permit.

    The park is home to a variety of activities suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities. Hikers can opt for short or long walks around the lake and to the base of Fall Creek Falls. There are two long-distance overnight trails for adventure-seeking visitors while the day-use trails are designed to accommodate recreational and educational activities for all ages. More than 56 miles of trails can be explored.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $8 - $32 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    2. Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    121 Reviews
    478 Photos
    1027 Saves
    Gatlinburg, Tennessee

    Overview

    Located eight miles from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Elkmont Campground is the largest and busiest campground in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. At an elevation of 2,150 feet, the area enjoys a moderate climate, characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers.

    Recreation

    The Little River runs through the campground offering visitors the option to camp waterfront. Campers can enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the Little River and countless other streams and rivers that snake through the mountains. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks, with a number of those trails easily accessible from Elkmont Campground. The nearby and popular Laurel Falls Trail leads to a spectacular 80-ft. waterfall. Hiking and fishing are not the only reasons for visiting the Smokies: Picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are popular activities. With around 1,500 bears living in the park, it's not uncommon for visitors to spot one. From the big animals like bears, deer, and elk, down to microscopic organisms, the Smokies are the most biologically-diverse area in the world's temperate zone. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all of which is protected for future generations to enjoy. The park also holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park.

    Facilities

    The Little River runs through the campground offering visitors the option to camp waterfront. Campers can enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the Little River and countless other streams and rivers that snake through the mountains. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker's paradise, with over 800 miles of maintained trails ranging from short, leg-stretchers to strenuous treks, with a number of those trails easily accessible from Elkmont Campground. The nearby and popular Laurel Falls Trail leads to a spectacular 80-ft. waterfall. Hiking and fishing are not the only reasons for visiting the Smokies: Picnicking, wildlife viewing and auto touring are popular activities. With around 1,500 bears living in the park, it's not uncommon for visitors to spot one. From the big animals like bears, deer, and elk, down to microscopic organisms, the Smokies are the most biologically-diverse area in the world's temperate zone. The park is a sanctuary for a magnificent array of animal and plant life, all of which is protected for future generations to enjoy. The park also holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park.

    Natural Features

    Generations of campers have returned to Elkmont year after year, drawn by the sounds of the river, the tranquility of the forest, and the variety of recreational activities in the Elkmont area. Little River and Jakes Creek run through the campground, offering easy access for fishing or cool summertime splashing. Trailheads for Little River Trail, Jakes Creek Trail, and Elkmont Nature Trail are located adjacent to the campground. Historic remnants of Little River Lumber Company's logging camp and old buildings from the Elkmont resort community offer campers a glimpse of life at Elkmont nearly a century ago.

    Nearby Attractions

    Gatlinburg, one of the Smokies' most famous tourist towns, is located about nine miles from Elkmont and offers organized rafting trips, museums, restaurants, galleries, an aquarium, skiing and more.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground

    3. Cades Cove Campground

    94 Reviews
    533 Photos
    602 Saves
    Townsend, Tennessee

    Overview

    Over 2 million visitors annually come to enjoy the scenic beauty of Cades Cove and its many historic structures. Popular activities here include hiking, biking, touring the 11-mile Cades Cove loop road and observing wildlife. Whether blanketed in bright wildflowers in the spring or vivid colors in the fall, the scenery at Cades Cove never disappoints.

    Recreation

    The Great Smoky Mountains are a hikers paradise and visitors to Cades Cove Campground love the 5-mile roundtrip hike to Abram Falls. From Cades Cove Loop Road, follow the signage at the turnoff for directions to the trailhead. Although Abrams Falls is only 20 feet high, the large volume of water rushing over falls more than makes up for its lack of height. The long, deep pool at its base is very picturesque. The trail to the falls traverses pine-oak forest on the ridges and hemlock and rhododendron forest along the creek. The waterfall and creek are named for Cherokee Chief Abram or Abraham whose village once stood several miles downstream. A nearby horse stable provides one-hour horseback rides as well as hay rides and carriage rides from March through October, offering recreational activities for the entire family. Campers can also enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the countless streams and rivers that snake through the mountains, with trout available in abundance.

    Facilities

    The Great Smoky Mountains are a hikers paradise and visitors to Cades Cove Campground love the 5-mile roundtrip hike to Abram Falls. From Cades Cove Loop Road, follow the signage at the turnoff for directions to the trailhead. Although Abrams Falls is only 20 feet high, the large volume of water rushing over falls more than makes up for its lack of height. The long, deep pool at its base is very picturesque. The trail to the falls traverses pine-oak forest on the ridges and hemlock and rhododendron forest along the creek. The waterfall and creek are named for Cherokee Chief Abram or Abraham whose village once stood several miles downstream. A nearby horse stable provides one-hour horseback rides as well as hay rides and carriage rides from March through October, offering recreational activities for the entire family. Campers can also enjoy high-quality backcountry fishing in the cool waters of the countless streams and rivers that snake through the mountains, with trout available in abundance.

    Natural Features

    Cades Cove is a broad, verdant valley surrounded by mountains and is one of the most popular destinations in the Great Smokies. It offers some of the best opportunities for wildlife viewing in the park. Large numbers of white-tailed deer are frequently seen, and sightings of black bear, coyote, ground hog, turkey, raccoon, skunk, and other animals are also possible. For hundreds of years Cherokee Indians hunted in Cades Cove but archeologists have found no evidence of major settlements. The first Europeans settled in the cove sometime between 1818 and 1821. By 1830 the population of the area had already swelled to 271.

    Nearby Attractions

    The park holds one of the best collections of log buildings in the eastern United States. Over 90 historic structures, including houses, barns, outbuildings, churches, schools and grist mills, have been preserved or rehabilitated in the park, a few of which are easily accessible from the Cades Cove loop road. Townsend, located about nine miles away, offers full service grocery stores and fuel.

    contact_info

    This location has limited staffing. Please call (865) 448-4103 for general information.

    Charges & Cancellations

    _________ If you plan to arrive at a date later than your arrival date you MUST contact the campground office 865-448-4103 in order to avoid a cancellation to your reservation. If you wish to cancel your reservation the day of your arrival you MUST contact the campground office 865-448-4103 in order to receive a refund. ___ Rules and reservation policies can be found at https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies __

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbrier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbrier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbrier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbrier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbrier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenbrier Campground

    4. Greenbrier Campground

    70 Reviews
    225 Photos
    691 Saves
    Gatlinburg, Tennessee

    Greenbrier Campground TN is surrounded by the Little Pigeon River and offer RV sites, tent camping, RV rentals, cabins, and bell tents. Located only 6 miles from downtown Gatlinburg and 8 miles from the entrance to the GSMNP, we are convenient to all area attractions.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $35 - $258 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Montgomery Bell State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Montgomery Bell State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Montgomery Bell State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Montgomery Bell State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Montgomery Bell State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Montgomery Bell State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Edgar Evins State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Edgar Evins State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Edgar Evins State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Edgar Evins State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Edgar Evins State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Edgar Evins State Park Campground

    6. Edgar Evins State Park Campground

    56 Reviews
    214 Photos
    248 Saves
    Lancaster, Tennessee

    This recreation area is part of Center Hill Lake

    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Cabins
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground

    7. Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground

    54 Reviews
    90 Photos
    284 Saves
    Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

    This KOA campground in Pigeon Forge is perfectly located to take everything the Great Smokies has to offer. Spend the day taking in the local area attractions such as Dollywood theme park, Dolly Parton's Stampede, Wonderworks, or the Old Mill just to name a few. Pigeon forge is bursting with over 70 attractions the whole family will love. Gear up for an adventure of hiking, fishing, biking or driving in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The options here are endless!

    For a home away from home, try our fully furnished Deluxe Cabins or Camping Cabins. Park your RV at our Pull-Thru RV Site with KOA Patio®, all with free cable and Wi-Fi. Pitching a Tent? We have beautiful waterfront sites conveniently situated with picnic tables and fire rings. Whatever accommodation you choose, you can rest assured you will enjoy your stay in this beautiful location.

    Explore our abundant entertainment options such as the NEW Gravity Rail, pan for fossils and gems at our Gem Mine, play at the NEW Playground, rent bikes or play in the zero-entry pool complete with a Rain Tree. There's even a safe place for Fido to play within the Kamp K9® Dog Park. As your day winds down, settle in to watch a movie at the Outdoor Cinema, sit around the Community Fire Pit or relax in the Hot Tub.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground

    8. Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    136 Photos
    201 Saves
    Lebanon, Tennessee
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $30 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Island State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Rock Island State Park Campground

    9. Rock Island State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    265 Photos
    356 Saves
    Rock Island, Tennessee

    This recreation area is part of Center Hill Lake

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Nashville KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Nashville KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Nashville KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Nashville KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Nashville KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Nashville KOA

    10. Nashville KOA

    35 Reviews
    39 Photos
    208 Saves
    Nashville, Tennessee

    Come experience the finest in Southern Outdoor Hospitality at Nashville KOA Resort. Whether you are staying at KOA campgrounds in Tennessee for the day or all week, we are here to help you create an unforgettable getaway in exciting Music City, USA. Located less than 3 miles from the Grand Ole Opry, we are the perfect destination for exploring all the wonderful shows, shopping, and dining Nashville is known for. We even offer a concierge for site-seeing tours and tickets to local events.

    The campground offers RV sites for every type of RV from Big Rig Friendly Pull Through Sites that boast KOA Patios® to back-in water and electric sites. No RV? No problem. Stay in one of our Deluxe Cabins (complete with linens, towels, kitchen supplies) , reserve a rustic cabin or pitch a tent in our large grassy tent area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
Showing results 1-10 of 154 campgrounds

Recent Glamping Reviews In Tennessee

1768 Reviews of 154 Tennessee Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Bristol-Kingsport KOA
    October 3, 2024

    Bristol-Kingsport KOA

    This is a very nice campground

    We arrive very late, after all day travels from Florida. My phone had three bars, Verizon 5G ultra wide signal.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Rvino - The Broken Banjo
    October 2, 2024

    Rvino - The Broken Banjo

    Nicer than before

    We have stopped here several times in the past when it was a KOA. The new owners have fixed it up. The roads are still gravel but in better shape, the pads are nicer, and there is more room between sites. 30/50 amp electric, water & sewer. Lots of trees, there is a big dog park. The pool was closed when we were there. Bathrooms and showers were nice, but dated. Tent sites, cabins. Lots of road noise!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Natchez Trace
    September 22, 2024

    Thousand Trails Natchez Trace

    Older campgrounds

    It’s a large campground with a lot of full time campers on site. Nice lake at 102 sq acres in size. Did have an issue that most sites are only 50 or 30amp hookups only, so I had to borrow a 30 to 120 adapter. The hiking trails were closed which sucked since I was looking forward to a hike with the dog. They are building a new pool. Good luck getting a lakeside site since I was told only 8 are available and are full most of the time.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground
    September 19, 2024

    Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground

    Beautiful campground and beautiful scenic drive

    We arrived and we got to pick out our own campsite. Thanks to the friendly and helpful staff. Bathrooms were clean and the showers were warm water beautiful tall trees provided shade. Scenic Drive was stunning.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Greeter Falls Campground
    September 12, 2024

    Greeter Falls Campground

    Peaceful forest

    Excellent instructions, easy to find my site. Trees so can add my tarp for possible rain. Restful sleep. Parked by my deluxe primitive site. It comes with hot shower and flush toilet. Porta potties close by lit with fairy lights at night. I was impressed as they were clean. Self check in. I saw a deer on the way to the bathroom. Appreciate the trash cans, water and electricity. Close to gas, food. I went to Coalmont. The Mexican food was authentic. Amazing.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Dale Hollow Damsite
    September 9, 2024

    Dale Hollow Damsite

    Passing thru

    Did a drive around of the campground. Spacing looks great between sites. Sites look clean and level. Some sites are next to the Obey River. Will be camping here in the near future.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Greenbrier Campground
    September 6, 2024

    Greenbrier Campground

    WONDERFUL

    Spent Labor Day weekend there. Awesome trip! Super clean campground and showers. Lots for the kids to do. Trolley that goes into Gatlinburg. Friendly, Christian atmosphere. Great Sunday service. .

  • Camper-submitted photo from Copperhead Ridge Glamping & RV Park
    September 1, 2024

    Copperhead Ridge Glamping & RV Park

    Cancelled my reservation less than a month out.

    Paid in full in 2023 for 2024. Checked in May 2024, all good on reservations, stated looking forward to seeing me in September. August 31, 2024, received an email stating they could not accommodate me for the agreed upon reservation. Tried to call, went straight to voicemail, mailbox full.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
    September 1, 2024

    Elkmont Campground — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    Elkmont Campground

    That's a great recommendation! Elkmont Campground sounds like a wonderful place to experience the Great Smoky Mountains. The variety of accommodation options makes it accessible to campers of all preferences. Therefore SRSLY Low Carb helps me stick to a diet and it reflects well on my body. I love active recreation. However, I always take care of my diet because I have health problems. Have a nice trip and take care of your health.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Paris Landing State Park Campground
    August 31, 2024

    Paris Landing State Park Campground

    Close to marina

    Close to the marina it's a hard walk uphill both ways to the bathroom but they are very nice and well kept. Big open areas for children to play overall very good state park campground

  • Camper-submitted photo from Popular Point Campground Lake Jordan Recreation Area
    August 28, 2024

    Popular Point Campground Lake Jordan Recreation Area

    Campground on a large lake with lake side sites

    My site was B82. Plenty of shade, very private on one side and pretty level,-1 from front to back. Most sites will require at least some leveling in the back and on the right side. The site was gravel and clean. Water and electric(30 amp) were fine. I was there a Monday thru Friday and it was VERY quite, I was the only one in my loop. I don't know if it's always like that or if it was a result of the campground only opening the Friday before my arrival due to damage/high water in the lake caused by Hurricane Debbie. It must be really busy on the weekends because they have a separate gate for campers already registered. Based on shade, privacy and level, I would recommend the following sites in B loop 10, 79, 80, 81 and 82. All sites in B loop had more trees between the next site as compared to Loop C. The downside to loop B is there is a lot of tent camping which can cause a lot of people in the showers. Loop B has it own 2 stall dump station, which was clean. There is a 4 station dump on the main road for the other loops. There were a lot of mosquitoes. I don't know if this was a result of the high lake water. The staff were very friendly and helpful. The Rangers patrolled on a regular basis. Now to the bathrooms. I agree with all the other comments. I don't know if it's always this way but the"comfort" station(toilets only) was only open Friday-Sunday. It only has cold water at the sink and no soap. The toilet stalls at the shower house were covered in spider webs. The sinks were filled with mosquitos. The floor wasn't swept or mopped during my stay. The doors of the shower stalls were very short. So short that any other user of the shower area could see entirely into the shower. Your fellow campers would know you very well. I drove thru Loop C and here are my observations. Loop C seems to be the favorite loop of the locals. It's has more lakefront sites which allows for boat docking. The sites didn't appear to have as much gravel as B. The shower house is MUCH better the the one in loop B. It had been remodeled and was clean and the shower doors were of a height that offered privacy. The water turn on is motion sensor and is activated when you enter the shower so be prepared. The water temperature is preset. The other loops were closed due to lake levels and hurricane damage so I could not observe them. The beach is small and not much. To access the bathroom at the beach you have to go to the adjoining campground loop bathroom. Verizon was 2 bars in the entire park. No local TV channels but some like Me TV, etc. No WIFI

  • Camper-submitted photo from Cades Cove Campground
    August 22, 2024

    Cades Cove Campground

    Awesome time

    If you're looking for peace and quiet, then this is the place to be. Had numerous sightings of wildlife even in the campground. Note... Do not forget to remove the drip pan on the Blackstone!!!! Doing so just erritates the bears.

  • Camper-submitted photo from The Crosseyed Cricket
    August 17, 2024

    The Crosseyed Cricket

    I like it

    I prefer playing cricket for physical exercise rather than virtual games like Nulls Brawl. It's a great way to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, especially in beautiful locations like The Crosseyed Cricket Campground in Tennessee.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground
    August 15, 2024

    Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg KOA Campground

    Awesome location, very busy

    We were there on a Saturday night in August and it was completely sold out. It's a very busy campground with close together spaces but that's to be expected at that time and place. The staff was awesome and it's a great facility, shockingly with that many people it was absolutely silent at night. If you want to be in that area at that time it's pricey but hard to beat; however, I have no desire to be in that busy of a campground. There is a good chance we would like to see it in the off season.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Ginger Bay Basic Camping Area
    August 8, 2024

    Ginger Bay Basic Camping Area

    Nice spot on the water

    A few sites at a boat launch area.

    One large site before the main turnaround point and a couple by the water.

    Not a ton of space.

    4x4 or awd may come in handy leaving the sites (going back up the gravel hill)

  • Camper-submitted photo from Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground — Warriors' Path State Park
    July 27, 2024

    Warriors' Path State Park Main Campground — Warriors' Path State Park

    Nice state park with lots of activities and options

    This is an enjoyable State Park with a lot to offer. The rangers and staff may be the nicest we’ve encountered. They have a full docket of activities, ranger-led hikes, games, crafts and wildlife lectures offered throughout the day. In addition to camping they have a full marina with canoe, kayak and paddle board rentals. It houses an acclaimed mountain bike trail area. Nearby you can golf and ride horses. Cell coverage varies from LTE to 5G all over the park.

     The main camping section was laid out long ago, with older style short sites and water/electric only. Many of the sites are narrow and some have challenging access. Be sure to read site descriptions and check the suggested trailer size- they seriously mean the max size!! Each site has a fire ring, and small grate grill and a picnic table. The sites up on the ridge are probably sized only for tents and Class B units; many are sloped. The newly updated section, Moody Bluff, has FHU and a number of pull-through sites. It only has trees around the edge of one side giving it an open field feeling. 

    The main campground has its own boat ramp for access to the reservoir. The camp store has a small offering of RV accessories and ice for$2.00. The main campground shower units are individual and separate from the bathrooms. There are ADA shower stalls, bathrooms, and ramps. While the bath house is older and could use fresh paint it was meticulously clean all week. 

    We spent a long weekend with several other RV couples. Nearby Bays Mountain Park and Planetarium provides engaging planetarium shows, a herpetarium, wildlife sections with bobcats, foxes, gray wolves, and raptors, as well as hiking trails. Restaurants, grocery stores and big box retail stores are 10 minutes away in Kingsport. 

    Our site(62) was narrow and a little short for our 23’ trailer. We had to park the truck sideways at the entrance. Our stairs opened right on the concrete pad for the table and we had very little room for our chairs. Our group host had enough room on their site(58) that they could erect two shelters for our meals. The forest was right up to our sides and we had lovely birdsong to awaken us every morning. I would definitely return, especially if the larger sites were available.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Mountaineer Campground
    July 15, 2024

    Mountaineer Campground

    Awful place

    I highly DO NOT RECOMMEND this place. They completely do not respect their guests. I booked a half a year in advance and asked the question if they have a separate bed for each and they assured me they do. Unfortunately, my child ended up sleeping on the table. I tried to ask for an additional mattress or a partial/full refund but they didn’t want to hear me. They offered me to go to the store and buy one for myself. A complete disrespect I drove for six hours to be as disappointed as I had never been in life. Please, beware that coming here you’re going to sleep either on the floor or on the table and the staff doesn’t care about you or do not respect you. People, please do not come here.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Pigeon Forge
    July 11, 2024

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park at Pigeon Forge

    Huge disappointment

    Very tiny cabin,  grass overgrown, far distance from pool. We paid in advance for 2 nights but checked out after 2 hours. Very gross, unkept. Because it’s pigeon forge I expected it to be good but it’s disgusting. The videos of JellystonePark show trampolines and water park like activities but this park had one small pool with no parking. Even my kids wanted to leave. Do not go here it is a Huge disappointment!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lakeside Getaway on Douglas
    July 3, 2024

    Lakeside Getaway on Douglas

    Great place to be with family

    Very quiet, secluded and private. I have been out there several times and enjoy it every time. Great people and family.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area Piney Campground
    June 28, 2024

    Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area Piney Campground

    Beautiful Modern Campground with lots of activities

    Piney Campground is part of the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. It is wildly popular among locals and travelers alike. Lots to do for kids - bike paths, basketball court, multiple playgrounds, etc. Beautiful views of Kentucky Lake/Tennessee River, nice campground store.



Guide to Tennessee

Camping in Tennessee offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, fun activities, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful getaway, Tennessee has something for everyone.

What to do

  • Hiking: Many campgrounds, like Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground, have well-maintained trails. One camper mentioned, “The hiking trails were well maintained but vary in difficulty.”
  • Fishing and Swimming: At Bledsoe Creek State Park Campground, you can enjoy fishing and swimming. A visitor shared, “The campground is quiet, clean, beautiful. So nice to be on the river.”
  • Exploring Waterfalls: Foster Falls Campground is known for its stunning waterfalls. One reviewer said, “The landscape is absolutely gorgeous and breathtaking.”

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate clean bathrooms and showers. A visitor at Edgar Evins State Park Campground noted, “Facilities were clean. Would recommend.”
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers mention the helpfulness of the staff. One camper at Rock Island State Park Campground said, “Staff was super friendly and helpful.”
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy having enough space. A review from Baileys Point highlighted, “Great level gravel site. The sites are spaced just right.”

What you should know

  • Crowded During Peak Season: Some parks can get busy, especially in summer. A camper at Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground mentioned, “The park is a top visited park in TN - it’s crowded.”
  • Limited Amenities at Some Sites: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Foster Falls Campground pointed out, “There are no electrical hookups. There are also no generators allowed.”
  • Check Site Conditions: Some sites may have steep inclines or be hard to access. A camper at Edgar Evins State Park Campground advised, “I definitely recommend either scouting out a site before booking or researching well which site would be a good fit.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for parks with activities for kids. One camper at Henry Horton State Park Campground said, “Enjoyed walking along the river. It is not secluded and is right off a local highway but has many conveniences.”
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of things to do. A family at Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground enjoyed, “There are so many trails, playgrounds, and bike/walk friendly roads.”
  • Pack Essentials: Bring along games and outdoor gear. A camper at Bledsoe Creek State Park Campground mentioned, “The campground was excellent!!”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Rock Island State Park Campground noted, “This is not a big rig friendly park, but lots of people still crammed their campers that were too big onto the sites.”
  • Look for Full Hookups: Some campgrounds offer limited hookups. A camper at Edgar Evins State Park Campground mentioned, “Only Campground 3 was open during our stay.”
  • Plan for Leveling: Be prepared for uneven sites. A visitor at Rock Island State Park Campground said, “The only issue we had was leveling our camper, there was a 7in difference between the sides.”

Tennessee camping offers a variety of experiences, so whether you're in an RV or tent, there's something for everyone to enjoy!