Outdoor Blog

7 Best Tent Camping Sites in Tennessee

Tennessee has some of the best camping, hiking, and water experiences in the U.S. Learn where to camp with this useful adventure guide!

Published

4 years ago

March 13, 2020

Riley Draper

Tennessee is a fantastic location for tourists and campers alike. It’s centrally located capital, Nashville, is the heart of the global country-music scene, meaning that many people flock from all around the world to see the music city capital. And with its miles of rolling hills, mountains and farm grounds, camping in the sixteenth state is bound to give you the country experience as well. Many of the campsites we will look at even encourage you to bring along your own musical instruments, so you can join in with a sing-along around the campsite.

From the Appalachian Mountain system dominating the eastern part of the state to the Mississippi river flanking the western border, the natural landscapes in Tennessee really are a sight to behold. However, despite some of the amazing natural features, Tennessee isn’t the most dramatic state you can camp in. Despite the stunning waterfalls, rocky mountains, and miles of rivers, we think that there’s something even more attractive and special about camping in Tennessee.

Did you know that one of Tennessee’s major industries is agriculture? What we think makes Tennessee such a quaint and attractive state to camp in are some of the alternative options such as rafting and rock climbing, which can be more difficult to find in other states. There’s also the agricultural lands. These include little family-run farmyards, where you can watch the sunset over the peaceful rolling hills, backcountry campsites nestled amongst stunning state parks, and unique isolated locations. That’s why we’ve compiled for you our top 7 small campgrounds, to show you our approach for the best tent camping in Tennessee.

1. Eastern Highland Rim Adventure

Just one hour from Nashville, located in the lower Appalachian’s at the Upper Cumberland Plateau, this campsite is where primitive camping gets a new makeover. This family-run campsite surrounds you with 360-degree views of relaxing forests, spring-fed creeks and streams, a ledge waterfall with a 20-foot drop, and a rock shelter formation. You are also within close reach of some incredible hiking opportunities, like the Appalachian Trail.

This campsite has marketed itself perfectly to the person visiting from the city. One of the things that these people search for when getting out into nature, is to finally be able to stargaze, a long way away from the pollution and smog of the city. The Eastern Highland Rim Adventure campground has wide open pastures for stargazing, meaning you can truly be humbled by the magnitude of nature.

There are also many activities to be enjoyed at this campsite. You can go fishing in the nearby Centre Hill Lake for largemouth bass, striped bass, white bass, spotted bass, and the list goes on. You can also head off on one of the designated miles of trails in the family’s acreage and beyond. They keep a couple of well-maintained hiking trails that go past natural destinations such as a ledge waterfall with a natural oak shelter, creek exploring and cascades.

You can also go canoeing and kayaking nearby, and swimming in spring-fed creeks and waterfalls. This is a perfect option for those well versed in new camping trends: there are many places where you can put up your camping hammock, and they even provide a “comfort station” with an outdoor shower stall where you can hang your solar shower bag, a changing room and a rain barrel which you can use to refill your portable shower.

Pros:

2 sites
Restrooms and showering facilities
Only two small campsites, so you can avoid the crowds, and really get in touch with nature
Kitchen facilities
25% off on weeknights
Rock fire pit

Cons:

No wifi
No picnic tables
No RV sites

One of the best times to go hiking in Tennessee is in the fall when the leaves are changing and it’s not too hot.

Note: Want to make sure you don’t get lost in the great outdoors? Discover the best handheld GPS devices for camping here!

2. Lakeside Pigs Pears and Fishing Campground

Located right on the border with Mississippi, the Lakeside Pigs Pears and Fishing Campground is another great option for those looking for a city break, especially if you’re traveling from Mississippi. What better way to catch a break from the city than staying on a working farm? In the camping area, you’ll be sleeping near to pigs, chickens, mini cows, a mini donkey, and ducks. In their orchards, they also grow persimmon, mulberries, pear trees and chestnuts.

There are also some great, easy fishing opportunities, in the campground’s three-acre pond where you can catch crappie, bass, bream, and catfish. In different spots, you can either choose to go fly fishing and wading or off the dock or boat fishing. This backcountry camping experience offers biking around the property, hiking around the 17-acre farm and further afield for rivers and streams, and swimming in their 3-acre pond.

This campsite certainly isn’t the luxury option, without basic amenities like showers, but what more can you expect when you’re stating on a farm? We’d recommend this as a great spot for family camping. This is because families thrive in a farmyard experience, you can use this as an opportunity to educate your young ones. Especially seeing as the campground and farmyard owners offer learning opportunities about permaculture, trees and animal husbandry.

What a great way to teach your kids how farms work, as they go and pick their fresh eggs in the morning. There’s also even easy access to fishing for the kids, making this the ideal family getaway spot. You’re certainly not getting the luxury of an RV park with a swimming pool, but we think that it’s a benefit that this will feel entirely different to RV camping. Go for it: get off the grid!

Pros:

Family-friendly
Bathrooms

Cons:

No showers
No Wi-Fi
No picnic tables
No fire ring

3. Fall Creek Falls Campground

This campground is located in the Fall Creek Falls State Park, which is centered on the upper Crane Creek Gorge in Van Buren and Bledsoe counties. This 26,000-acre state park is famous for its unique geological formations and stunning waterfalls: we think it’s one of the most beautiful Tennessee state parks.

This campsite is located as close as you’re going to get to Fall Creek Falls. Fall Creek Falls, at 256 feet, is one of the highest waterfalls in the east of the United States. The falls are breathtaking and cascade down layers of rock and strata. There are also many other waterfalls to be viewed within this monumental park, such as Piney Falls, Cane Creek Falls, and Cane Creek Cascades.

The Fall Creek Falls Campground is your best option for seeing this incredible landscape, especially if you’re backpacking. However, this does come at a price, many others flock to these natural phenomena too. With 268 sites, this campsite might feel a little bit busy with not a huge amount of primacy, and you may have to book in advance.

However, with the instant access to Fall Creek Falls, and all the other activities offered near the campground, this may be a sacrifice you’re willing to make as a backpacker. These activities include biking, boating, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, paddling, swimming and wildlife watching. This is a fantastic option for those who want their surroundings to be wilder than their campsite.

Pros:

Bathrooms and showers
Right next to Fall Creek Falls

Cons:

268 sites so it can become quite busy
No Wi-Fi (this could be a pro!)

As the birthplace of country music, you might want to bring along your guitar for a little campfire music session.

4. Mountain Soul Camping

Do you want to de-stress and relax in a hammock while you listen to the calming sound of a waterfall dropping nearby? Or relax and swim in crystal clear streams? The Mountain Soul camping might be just the spot for you. Located just minutes away from the Great Smoky Mountains (and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park) and Cherokee National Forest, this campsite offers you the best in remote, zen camping experiences.

Whether you’re the only person hiking along a remote mountain biking rail, or building your own shelter in the wood and learning some survival skill, this is the perfect spot to reconnect with nature. Mountain Soul Camping has some lovely hammocks, set up right by the waterfall, so you can lie hanging between two trees and destress, reading your book to the sound of the water crashing on the rocks nearby.

As the name suggests, this campsite won’t just offer you mountains, it also comes with a soul. This campsite welcomes musicians and encourages them to bring their instrument, for a campfire singalong. There is also a great deal of live music nearby in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, and nearby you can also escape on a moonshine or wine trail. There are only 6 sites here, each with up to 7 guests, so you can guarantee that your stay will feel intimate and not crowded.

There are also a huge number of activities that can be done at the campsite or nearby: biking, hiking, fishing, horseback riding, snow-sports, canoeing and kayaking, swimming, whitewater rafting, and wildlife watching. The hosts here are also really exceptional, they often drive guests up to the mountains to see the views, or take them to fruit picking sessions in the evening. For a peaceful, soulful stay, in the middle of tranquil nature, look no further.

Pros:

Bathrooms and showers
Kitchen facilities available
Small sites so privacy is ensured
Few tent sites

Cons:

No Wi-Fi
Bring mosquito repellent
Few tent sites

5. Tent Camping on Buffalo River

This 16.5-acre site offers a creativity retreat center, named Camp Wonder Wander, and a lovely little farm nestled beds the Buffalo River. Located in the foothills of the Appalachia hills, surrounded by rolling hills and farm country, this is a great way to become really situated in the local landscape and to understand the area’s agricultural life.

This is a perfect site for tent camping, with the campsite about three stories up from the river bed, meaning you can easily climb up the hill after a long day swimming and kayaking and sleep in a safe sheltered location, far above the high watermark. There’s even a pulley system so you can bring your equipment and kit up form the riverbank, and safely store it before the next day’s adventure. If you want a glamping experience, you could even stay in their lovely quaint treehouse!

There are a few options for backcountry tent camping here, including densely forested locations, which is perfect for hammock camping, and for hikers. Some locations are nearer to the animal inhabitants of the farm: rabbits, hens, camp cats and donkeys. You can also get involved in creative workshops, from collaging to pottery and purchase delicious fresh produce from the farm. One great feature of this campsite is how isolated it feels.

Vehicles aren’t allowed on the campsite: you have to park at the edge of the retreat and walk through five wooded acres. The campsite also doesn’t accept more than 12 campers at a time, so this is a fantastic option if you really want to be out in the sticks, away from the stressful sounds of roads and the city, and able to look up without interruption into the peaceful starry night’s sky before you sleep.

Pros:

Isolated and peaceful
Creative classes and access to the farm and their produce
Kayaking and canoeing right in Buffalo River, right next to the campsite
Wi-Fi

Cons:

Primitive camping: no toilet or shower
No picnic tables
Not good for big groups
No car camping

Filled with some of the best rivers and lakes in the southeast, Tennessee is perfect for kayaking and canoeing.

6. Maclellan Island on the Tennesse River

This is one of our favorite options for camping in Tennessee and is an excellent example of a novelty camping spot. Located on Maclellan Island, a unique and stunning 18.8-acre wildlife sanctuary, in the middle of the Tennessee River, you’d think that booking this tiny island all for yourself would leave you totally out in the sticks. But this couldn’t be further from the truth! Even with the tranquility and exclusivity of sleeping on your own, private wildlife-sanctuary-island, you’re still right in the heart of downtown Chattanooga!

This is an excellent option for those looking for a convenient, but unique and edgy, city-break camping experience, which feels like a backcountry campsite. However, this experience really is what you and your group make of it. There’s only one site, for up to 30 people, and you can only book this island as one group. There’s also no shower, kitchen or portable water facilities. Furthermore, you have to access the island with your own boat, or a rented canoe. So, if you’re a group looking for a unique adventure for a celebration or a family getaway, we’d recommend hiring canoes for a few days and calling this island your home. Seeing as it goes from only $25 per night, what have you got to lose?

You can only access the island via boat, so despite the central location, you’ll get the adventure experience you’ve been looking for. Especially with the amazingly diverse ecosystem and wildlife viewing opportunities on the island. On the water’s edge you can see geese, muskrats, and kingfishers, and sometimes great-blue heron, nestling osprey, and migrating warblers; in the forest, you might sight possums, foxes, owls, raccoons, turkeys, and woodpeckers. You’ll probably also wake up to the dulcet tones of the songbirds resonating from the trees. If that doesn’t sound like the most tranquil urban camping trip, without any of the fuss of heading to a backcountry site, we don’t know what does!

Pros:

In the heart of Downtown Chattanooga
Your group will have their own, private island
Cheap
Wildlife viewing

Cons:

No shower, no running water
Only accessible by boat
No hookups

7. Overmountain Shelter in Roan Mountain

This is one of the most famous and iconic backpacking destinations in the whole of the state. If you’re planning a long trip around the state, and are picking up many parks and natural locations and campgrounds this is a sight you cannot afford to miss. Although it’s not technically a ‘tent camping site’, we couldn’t resist mentioning it.

Situated in the Appalachian Trail, and known affectionately by hikers as ‘the barn’, this structure operates as an Overmountain Shelter. This can sleep up to 30 people, and is a charming, although rustic, backcountry dwelling. If you’re backpacking on your own in Tennessee, places such as ‘the barn’, and other similar dwellings like the rustic Roan High Knob Shelter (the highest shelter on the Appalachian trail), are a fantastic way to meet other cool hikers, who are just as adventurous as you are.

Pros:

Embrace the adventure
Meet other awesome backpacks

Cons:

Primitive, limited amenities
No Wi-Fi
Difficult to access

Final Verdict:

As you can see, we’ve chosen to show you the best tent camping in Tennessee through our eyes. If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury camping experience, or for a full hookup or RV camping, then this isn’t the advice for you. What makes these campsites unique is that they’re really rooted in the land of the state. Either active family-run farmyards, backcountry camping in remote areas of state parks, or private little group escapes on an island reserved entirely for you: these options show you the best of camping in Tennessee.

The reason for this is that you’re not going to understand Tennessee’s southern charm and hospitality from one of the larger, swankier, more overpopulated campsites. These smaller campsites, although they might not be open year-round or come with the most extensive list of amenities, capture the charm and heart of the state. Imagine sitting around a campfire, listening to people play country music, after a long day canoeing or swimming in the river, on a family-owned farm. You can’t get more of a Tennessee camping experience than that!

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

1 month ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.

Outdoor Blog

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Sam Brooks

The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.

Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.

The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.

Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.

Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.

The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.

Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter

Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.

Outdoor Blog

The Role of Camouflage in Wildlife Photography and Hunting

Published

2 months ago

June 2, 2024

Caleb Cole

Camouflage plays a vital role in the worlds of wildlife photography and hunting, serving as an indispensable tool for enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s not just about blending into the environment; it’s about becoming a part of it. Camouflage allows for closer interactions with wildlife, ensuring more successful hunts and breathtaking photographs. Here, we explore the key roles camouflage plays in these outdoor activities.

Blending In: The Art of Disappearing

One of the primary roles of camouflage is to help the wearer blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This art of disappearing is crucial whether you’re capturing a stunning image of a deer at dawn or patiently waiting for your prey during hunting season. In wildlife photography, the goal is to get as close as possible without disturbing the natural behavior of the animals. Camouflage clothing, face paint, and even equipment coverings can make the difference between a once-in-a-lifetime shot and a missed opportunity.

For hunters, blending into the environment increases the chances of a successful hunt. Animals have keen senses, and the slightest hint of an unnatural shape or color can send them running. Camouflage gear allows hunters to become virtually invisible. This skill of blending in isn’t just about wearing the right colors; it’s about understanding the terrain, the light, and how to move with stealth.

Reducing the Human Scent and Sound

Another critical aspect of camouflage in both photography and hunting is the reduction of human scent and sound. Animals naturally use their sense of smell and hearing to detect potential threats. Successful hunting trips often hinge on the ability to minimize human presence in these sensory fields. Specially designed camouflage clothing can help mask human odors, making it harder for animals to pick up on your scent.

Similarly, wildlife photographers need to consider their scent and sound output. Even the most visually inconspicuous photographer can ruin a perfect shot if their scent or a stray noise alerts the animals. Using scent-masking sprays and moving with extreme caution are part of the camouflage strategy, ensuring that photographers can get closer to their subjects without causing alarm.

Enhancing Patience and Stealth

Patience and stealth are virtues that every hunter and wildlife photographer must possess, and camouflage gear enhances these qualities. When you’re properly camouflaged, you can afford to be more patient, knowing that you are less likely to be detected. This confidence allows for longer waiting periods in prime locations, increasing the chances of capturing that perfect shot or making a successful kill.

For wildlife photographers, the need for patience is paramount. Animals won’t always show up when you want them to, and sudden movements can ruin hours of careful preparation. Camouflage helps in remaining undetected, allowing photographers to wait silently and still for the right moment. Hunters also benefit from this patience, as it enables them to wait for the ideal shot without rushing and potentially missing their target.

Specialized Camouflage for Different Hunts: Moose Hunting

Different types of hunting require specialized camouflage, and moose hunting is a prime example. Moose are large, elusive animals often found in dense forests and swampy areas. Successful moose hunters understand the need for specific camouflage patterns that mimic the unique environments where moose thrive. Moose hunting clothes are designed to blend into the dark, shadowy forests and marshes, making hunters virtually invisible to these keen-eyed creatures.

During moose hunting season, the right camouflage can make or break your experience. Moose have excellent vision and can easily detect unnatural movements or colors. By wearing appropriate camouflage, hunters can move quietly and position themselves for a clear shot without spooking their quarry.

The specialized gear often includes clothing that covers the entire body, including gloves and face masks, ensuring that no part of the hunter stands out against the natural backdrop. This thorough approach is essential in moose hunting, where patience and precision are key.

Capturing Authentic Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about capturing authentic wildlife behavior. Camouflage allows photographers to become invisible observers, documenting animals in their natural state without any human interference. This is particularly important for conservation efforts, as understanding genuine animal behavior can inform better strategies for protecting various species and their habitats.

Photographers who use camouflage can get closer to their subjects, often capturing moments that would be impossible to see from a distance. This proximity results in more intimate and detailed shots, showcasing the animals’ daily activities, interactions, and environments.

The authenticity of these images can inspire greater appreciation and respect for wildlife, encouraging more people to support conservation initiatives. By blending into the environment, photographers can witness and document behaviors that might otherwise go unnoticed, providing invaluable insights into the natural world.

outdoorcommand.com (Post 2)

The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness

Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth

Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style

Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter

High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation

Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter