Sleep Under Tennessee Stars

After exploring some of the 4,138 acres of this state park along the 14-mile biking trail and many hiking options, settle in for the night with one of the most budget-friendly Tennessee camping experiences available. If you're backpacking or trying tent camping in Tennessee, the park has four designated camp shelters (just notify the park office ahead of time). The 28 rustic campsites include showers, grills and picnic tables, ideal for low-key Tennessee outdoor adventures in a wooded setting.

Special Features:

• Great for backpackers seeking secluded Tennessee camping spots.

• Popular destination for tent camping in Tennessee’s wooded terrain.

• Home to one of the state’s most scenic bike trails.

• Ideal for nature-focused Tennessee outdoor adventures.

• Offers a mix of quiet campsites and access to day hikes.

David Crockett State Park

Named after one of Tennessee's most famous pioneers, this Tennessee state park camping destination boasts 115 campsites, many with picnic tables, fire rings, and full electrical and water hookups. You can cast a line in the 35-acre Lake Lindsey or explore 13 trails that wind through a peaceful natural landscape. This is a great place for both RV and tent camping in Tennessee, with amenities that let you enjoy the wilderness without sacrificing comfort.

• A classic Tennessee state park camping experience for families.

• Features lake access, wooded trails and wildlife spotting.

• Well-suited for RVs and tent campers alike.

• A great basecamp for outdoor adventures in Tennessee.

• Combines history, nature and modern amenities.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Enjoy Smoky Mountains camping in America’s most visited national park. From car camping with running water to remote Tennessee outdoor adventures deep in the backcountry, this iconic destination offers something for every camper. With a variety of scenic hiking trails, abundant wildlife, and dark night skies, it’s no wonder the Smokies remain a top spot for outdoor adventures in Tennessee.

• One of the most iconic destinations for camping.

• Mix of backcountry and frontcountry sites for all skill levels.

• Excellent for long weekends or extended Tennessee outdoor adventures.

• Nearby waterfalls, wildlife and scenic overlooks.

• Offers some of the darkest skies for stargazing in the state.

Natchez Trace State Park

Explore more than 13 miles of hiking trails, including a challenging 40-mile overnight route — perfect for serious hikers seeking immersive Tennessee camping experiences. The park offers four backcountry campsites (permits required), 208 developed campsites with full amenities, and five air-conditioned cabins. Whether you’re out for a weekend getaway or long-haul hike, this is a prime location for Tennessee outdoor adventures.

• Known for its overnight hiking routes and scenic terrain.

• Combines remote trails with full-service Tennessee camping options.

• A great mix of rustic and modern lodging for any adventure style.

• Perfect for multi-day outdoor adventures in Tennessee.

• Offers one of the most diverse camping setups in West Tennessee.

Reelfoot Lake State Park

Surrounded by submerged cypress trees and teeming with wildlife, Reelfoot Lake offers one of the most scenic spots for tent camping in Tennessee. Guests can fish, hike or spot bald eagles before settling in at one of two lakefront campgrounds. This unique destination delivers both comfort and access to some of the best Tennessee outdoor adventures, with laundry and dishwashing stations, a fish cleaning house, and boat rentals for exploring the water.

• A top pick for waterfront tent camping in Tennessee.

• Unique lake ecosystem great for fishing and birdwatching.

• Launch point for paddling and photography-filled Tennessee outdoor adventures.

• Accessible facilities make it easy for extended stays.

• Offers year-round natural beauty in Northwest Tennessee.

Bumpus Mills Campground at Land Between the Lakes

Tucked along the quiet shores of Lake Barkley, Bumpus Mills Campground offers a laid-back, wooded retreat near Dover. Waterfront campsites provide peaceful views and direct access to the lake, perfect for paddling, fishing or simply relaxing by the water. With a welcoming, small-scale charm and easygoing atmosphere, it’s a go-to spot for campers looking to slow down and soak in Tennessee’s natural beauty.

Special Features:

• Lakefront campsites with scenic views and direct water access.

• Boat ramp available for paddling and fishing.

• Peaceful, wooded setting ideal for a quiet retreat.

• Vault toilets, potable water and picnic areas on-site.

• Pet-friendly, but must be kept on a leash and picked up after.

Bledsoe Creek State Park

Just outside Nashville in Gallatin, Bledsoe Creek State Park is a favorite for families and nature lovers alike. Lakeside campsites, shaded trails and abundant wildlife make it an ideal basecamp for exploring the outdoors. Spend your days paddling the quiet inlet, hiking beneath a canopy of trees or spotting herons and deer along the shoreline. At night, settle in by the campfire as fireflies flicker and stars brighten the sky overhead.

Special Features:

• 57 campsites, many with water/electric hookups and paved pads.

• ADA-accessible bathhouses and hiking trails.

• Kayak and canoe access with calm waters for beginners.

• Family-friendly with a playground and seasonal ranger programs.

• Pet-friendly, but must be kept on a leash and picked up after.