Does Elk Head Overlook have toilets?

Yes — toilets are available at every site at Elk Head Overlook.

Does Elk Head Overlook have picnic tables?

Picnic tables are available at 2 of 3 sites at Elk Head Overlook.

Does Elk Head Overlook have trash disposal?

Yes — trash disposal is available at every site at Elk Head Overlook. There is a wooden trash bin on site. This is for bagged trash only.

How do you get to the sites at Elk Head Overlook?

2WD accessible. Park at your site.

Are pets allowed at Elk Head Overlook?

Yes — Elk Head Overlook is pet-friendly. On leash.

Are campfires allowed at Elk Head Overlook?

Yes — campfires are allowed at Elk Head Overlook. Always review local fire regulations before enjoying a campfire.

What is the check-in process at Elk Head Overlook?

Meet and greet with your host Sonya at some sites; head straight to your site at the others.

What is the cancellation policy at Elk Head Overlook?

Moderate at some sites; Flexible at the others. Full refund 3 days before check in time starts.

What time is check-in and check-out at Elk Head Overlook?

Check-in times vary by site (from 2pm). Check-out times vary by site. Flexible check-in available at some sites. Late check-out available at some sites.

How far in advance can you book at Elk Head Overlook?

Same-day bookings welcome, up to 12 months ahead.

Is drinking water available at Elk Head Overlook?

No — no potable water at Elk Head Overlook. There is a wet weather creek and spring down the side of the mountain. Campers are welcome to use it at their own risk.

Does Elk Head Overlook have showers?

No — no showers at Elk Head Overlook. we have non-potable water onsite

Does Elk Head Overlook have cooking equipment?

No — no cooking equipment at Elk Head Overlook.

Does Elk Head Overlook have laundry?

No — no laundry at Elk Head Overlook. Wonder wash and detergent provided upon request. Just keep in mind there is no potable water available.

Does Elk Head Overlook have wifi?

No — no wifi at Elk Head Overlook.

Great night roasting hotdogs and s’mores

A look at the entrance from the graveled lot.

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Elk Head Overlook

Hosted by Sonya · Pelham, Tennessee

3 sites · RV, Tent · 8 acres

94%

266 reviews

Amazing views

Hipcampers say this spot has amazing views.

Best in Tennessee: Finalist

Named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2024.

**Please note the address is 9665 SR 50, Pelham, TN 37301** The best part about this site are the views! Relax on the side of the Cumberland Plateau while overlooking Burroughs Cove and the Elk River. You can see the camp sites from the main road, so there will be some road noise. Sites 1/2 are hard/large graveled, tent camping will be very challenging, heavy duty tent stakes are highly recommended with mats/padding. There is an electrical box at each end of the hard graveled parking areas (Sites 1 and 2) with 20- and 30-amp plugs, plus 110v. If the power is not working, please check the panel and turn on/reset the breakers, many of our guests turn them off when departing. If you are at Site #2 and the steps above do not work, please check/do the same at the Site #1 panel (it is the master power source). Water is NOT available on site. NOTE: Depending on the time of year (warmer months only) a water container with a limited amount of NON-POTABLE water is on site for your use. Please plan on filling your water reservoir(s) PRIOR to arriving. There is an outhouse for all guests, picnic tables and fire rings for Sites 1 and 2. The camping area is fairly close to SR-50 so please expect to hear some road noise, more so in the winter months. The entrance/driveway is on a small incline, if you are traveling in a light vehicle and a heavy camper, it's best to maintain a slow and steady speed to the camp site (for almost everyone, this is not an issue). If you are towing a camper, we recommend the total length of the vehicle and the trailer not exceeding 30ft, There is not a significant place to "turn around" at the sites and novice drivers (not used to backing out of tight spots with longer rigs) may find this very challenging. There is a double gate that is usually closed, and latched so it stays closed, it is not "locked". The site is self-serve (not manned), Site #1 is to the left, Site #2 is to the right, and Site #3 is down the path past the outhouse at the bottom of the path. It is recommended that campers set up early for Site 3 (still daylight) to get an idea of the layout. Parking for Site #3 is by the shed at the main entrance and power is not available at the site.

Select a site

Tent-only sites

1 site

Elkhead Overlook Site #3

94%

(31)

Tent site · Sleeps 4

**Please note the address is 9665 SR 50, Pelham, TN 37301** This is a tent site below the overlook, look for signs on the path going past the outhouse. This site is heavily shaded, has a natural fireplace, and is quite secluded. It is down a steep path from available parking, but well worth it!! Would recommend setting up camp prior to sunset, anywhere in the general area is available for use. The site is approximately 15 minutes from South Cumberland State Park where you can hike, picnic, and enjoy beautiful waterfalls and picturesque sunsets. If you are catching a show at The Caverns, this site is only 10 minutes from the venue. Campers will be able to enjoy spending time adventuring on 8 acres while being minutes from restaurants, museums, zip lines, and more. This site is easily accessed from State Route 50 which is approximately 8 miles off I24 exit 127. Please expect to hear some road noise from vehicles traveling the mountain road. Need firewood? Let us know and we can have it delivered to your campsite before you arrive, enough wood for the night (and then some) $35.

Campfires allowed

Toilet

No potable water

Pets allowed

No showers

No picnic table

RV-only sites

2 sites

Elkhead Overlook Site #1

95%

(283)

Vehicle site · Sleeps 8 · Vehicles under 30 ft

**Please note the address is 9665 SR 50, Pelham, TN 37301** The best feature of this site is the view! Relax while overlooking Burroughs Cove, the Elk River, and the beautiful Pelham Valley. The site is approximately 15 minutes from South Cumberland State Park where you can hike, picnic, and enjoy beautiful waterfalls and picturesque sunsets. If you are catching a show at The Caverns, this site is only 10 minutes from the venue. Campers will be able to enjoy spending time adventuring on 8 acres while being minutes from restaurants, museums, zip lines, and more. This site is easily accessed from State Route 50 which is approximately 8 miles off I-24 exit 127. Please expect to hear some road noise from vehicles traveling the mountain road as the sites are very close. This site is has large gravel so tent camping will be very challenging. Site #1 is approx. 50ft from Site #2, Site #3 (tent site) is farther down the hill and separated from the top RV/camp sites. If privacy is important, guests may consider booking both sites (if available). Need firewood? Let us know and we can have it delivered to your campsite before you arrive, enough wood for the night (and then some) $35.

Campfires allowed

Toilet

No potable water

Pets allowed

Electrical hookup

No water hookup

Elkhead Overlook Site #2

89%

(56)

Vehicle site · Sleeps 8 · Vehicles under 30 ft

**Please note the address is 9665 SR 50, Pelham, TN 37301** The best feature of this site is the view! Relax while overlooking Burroughs Cove, the Elk River, and the beautiful Pelham Valley. The site is approximately 15 minutes from South Cumberland State Park where you can hike, picnic, and enjoy beautiful waterfalls and picturesque sunsets. If you are catching a show at The Caverns, this site is only 10 minutes from the venue. Campers will be able to enjoy spending time adventuring on 8 acres while being minutes from restaurants, museums, zip lines, and more. This site is easily accessed from State Route 50 which is approximately 8 miles off I24 exit 127. Please expect to hear some road noise from vehicles traveling the mountain road as the site is very close. This site has large gravel so tent camping will be very challenging even with heavy duty tent stakes and mats. Site #2 is approx. 50ft from Site #1, Site #3 (tent site) is farther down the hill and separated from the top RV/camp sites. If the “full” valley view or privacy is critical, guests may consider booking both sites (if available). Need firewood? Let us know and we can have it delivered to your campsite before you arrive, enough wood for the night (and then some) $35.

Campfires allowed

Toilet

No potable water

Pets allowed

Electrical hookup

No water hookup

Reviews

94%· 372 reviews

Themes

Review summary
Generated from real Hipcamper reviews
Elkhead Overlook is a beloved camping spot known for its breathtaking views overlooking the valley and the night sky full of stars. Most campers have praised the easy access and the sense of privacy, especially at campsite #3, though some mention the nearby road noise. The lack of water supply can be an issue, so bringing your own is recommended. While the pit toilet hasn't impressed everyone, the stunning views and proximity to hiking trails keep campers coming back.
Will T.
Camped in a 18 ft rooftop tent at Elkhead Overlook Site #1 with pets, Oct 2026.
Recommends
Absolutely great spot to enjoy an evening overlooking the valley. Everything as described and easily accessible.
Joshua N.
Camped in a 16 ft car at Elkhead Overlook Site #2 with friends, Oct 2026.
Recommends
It was a fun trip
Logan B.
Camped in a 16 ft car at Elkhead Overlook Site #1 with friends, Sept 2026.
Recommends
It was a great location and super close to the caverns venue

Amenities

Fire pits
Pit toilets
Picnic tablesAt some sites
Electricity hookup30 amps
Trash disposalTrash bin
No potable water
No showers
No water hookup
No wifi
No laundry
No cooking equipment
No hot tub
No playground

Things to know

2WD accessiblePark at your site.
Pet-friendlyOn leash.
Campfires allowedAlways review local fire regulations before enjoying a campfire.
Check-in processMeet and greet with your host Sonya at some sites; head straight to your site at the others.
Cancellation policyModerate at some sites; Flexible at the others. Full refund 3 days before check in time starts.
Check-in and check-outCheck-in times vary by site (from 2pm). Check-out times vary by site. Flexible check-in available at some sites. Late check-out available at some sites.
Booking windowSame-day bookings welcome, up to 12 months ahead.