The best great views camping near Lookout Mountain

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Straddling the border of Georgia and Tennessee, Lookout Mountain offers easy access to the natural wonders and outdoor recreation in multiple states. The mountain is also home Point Park and Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park, and three paid tourist attractions: Rock City, with unusual rock formations, garden, and panoramic views of up to seven states; the 145-foot Ruby Falls, one of the tallest and deepest underground waterfalls in the country; and Incline Railway, one of the world’s steepest passenger railways. Numerous parks and forests near Lookout Mountain offer a wide range of camping options.

96% (2.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds

The Falls at Sewanee Creek

1. The Falls at Sewanee Creek

98%
(681)
29mi from Lookout Mountain · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tracy City, TN
45 private acres on our homestead for you to roam. Eight eclectic sites to choose from ranging from primitive camping to a lovely log cabin. All except the log cabin lovingly built by the owner, loaded with creative touches from up-purposed materials. Featuring: * Two gorgeous waterfalls. Each of our stay-sites are located within about 100 yards of Fifty-foot tall Miller’s Falls. * Two large caves at the end of a short, but rugged hike. * A fairy Village filled with Hollow Oak Tree Fairy cottages and bio-luminescent trees that glow after dark. Magical. * Three acres for group camping centered on a well-equipped, covered outdoor kitchen. * Peaceful Meditation Retreats at the Outdoor Kitchen under brain-wave enhancing satellite dishes. * Certified Hypnotherapy Disclaimer: The flow of the waterfall is subject to fluctuations in temperature, seasonal droughts, & rain fall. The most favorable seasons for waterfall flow are fall, winter & early spring. We came to this magical place to found a self-reliant, homesteading eco-community when I retired from corporate life in 2006. It's called the Village on Sewanee Creek, named for the creek 800 feet below the bluff where we are located. I traveled the world as a senior executive for Baskin-Robbins, Dunkin' Donuts, Papa Johns, Blockbuster, 7-Eleven and other retail franchises, making the world safe for Pizza, Ice Cream, Pancakes Video Rentals and American convenience. And I was ready for something more fufilling. I scouted for a place of exquisite natural beauty and I found it here. I bought way too much land just before the real estate bust and learned how to turn a nice fortune into a very small one. I faced challenges and had lots of fun. Now I want to share our experience. If you love nature and the outdoors, this is the best place to celebrate it.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$36
 / night
Running Water Creek

4. Running Water Creek

84%
(338)
6.5mi from Lookout Mountain · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Guild, TN
Running Water Creek is a unique, fully off grid campground just 20 minutes to downtown Chattanooga. We have 80+ campsites spread out over 120 acres. Most of the roads are accessible in any small car, but some roads require 4x4 (they're marked with a sign). We have a bath house with toilets, showers, and sinks and even offer hot water! Our well and cabins are all solar-powered as we are not on the electric grid. Some info about the property: -we DO NOT have water or power hookups -we have gravel roads with a 5 MPH speed limit on the property (if you drive too fast the roads will seem rough) -we are right next to a highway and train tracks so there will be some noise (some days are better than others and we have no way of predicting how many trains will/will not go by) -none of our campsites have picnic tables (please plan accordingly) -most campsites have fire rings built, but if you choose a site without one you need to build your own
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$26
 / night
Great night roasting hotdogs and s’mores

6. Elk Head Overlook

95%
(317)
38mi from Lookout Mountain · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Pelham, TN
**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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$38
 / night
Quail Run Farm

7. Quail Run Farm

94%
(212)
2.5mi from Lookout Mountain · 31 sites · Tents · Chattanooga, TN
We have a working farm with sweeping views of Lookout mountain and only 12 minutes from all the comforts of downtown Chattanooga. Our expansive 120-acre property provides campers with the freedom to choose their camping spots anywhere on the farm. Farm animals include horses, cattle, hogs, chickens, goats, bees, stocked ponds, gardens and much more. We have strategically placed signs throughout the property to help you identify potential neighbors. If you desire the company of ducks, consider setting up camp near our picturesque duck pond. For those who prefer the rustic crowing of roosters to a phone alarm, we have four chicken coops dispersed across the farm. Our horses freely roam the front pastures. The cows enjoy grazing on lush grass and taking refreshing dips in the ponds. They also relish watching the sunset from the hill's vantage point, as it offers the best view on the farm. We are a working farm with staff tending to various jobs throughout the day. We have a map to show some of the popular locations campers have enjoyed in the past, but it is first come first serve. We intentionally leave some of our fields uncut. In some fields, the grass can come up above the knees. If you are picky with the grass, these are pastures on a farm and we do not cut them. We leave that to the animals to take care of. All of our staff are super friendly and happy to help guide you to the best camping spot and answer any questions. In searching for your campsite please note that there may be livestock in and around certain areas as we rotate pastures. Please respect farm rules and do not camp in a pasture with cattle and do not enter any gated area without speaking to someone on the farm who knows which fields the cattle is in. Potable well water can be located from the blue spigot outside of the staff housing area, in between the orange and green tiny home, and outside the outdoor shower. Fire rings and chopped wood are ready for you to borrow and return by the outdoor shower area. If you are interested in a more posh experience, we have yurts and tiny homes for rent Embracing farm life is not just an adventure but also a valuable learning opportunity, whether you're a family or an individual seeking a taste of the countryside lifestyle. We hope to see you soon on the farm!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Little Bluff

11. Little Bluff

93%
(51)
3.8mi from Lookout Mountain · 1 site · Tent, RV · Wildwood, GA
Just ten miles from Downtown Chattanooga, Little Buff is the spot to park your van or pitch your tent! We have beautiful mountain views and convenient access to I-24. The Tennessee River, historic attractions, outdoor adventures, and urban life are all nearby. Enjoy a private, roomy campsite with a fine gravel surface, fire pit, bench, and observation point. You will have plenty of space for your rig, vehicles, tents tables and chairs, canopy, or whatever clever camping system you employ. There's an outhouse, a potable water hydrant, and an electric power station on the property. Be sure to check out the extras. We have Firewood for sale: $10 for a big bundle of seasoned, split hardwood. Don't forget the kindling for a quick blaze! We can also supply a generator, all gassed up and ready to go. Please take a moment to read and observe the RULES. They are simple and important. We want to keep your visit fun and safe and affordable, as well as preserve the property for future guests. We are so glad you are coming to Little Bluff. Thank you for booking and enjoy your stay!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$28
 / night
Sunset viewing from The Point.  Bring your own chairs, firepits are provided.

12. Whippoorwill Woods Nature Retreat

98%
(99)
28mi from Lookout Mountain · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · South Pittsburg, TN
Opening March 1 for the 2025 camping season! Three years ago our multi-generational family decided to go on an adventure. We had talked about moving to the woods for years, but finally decided to turn our dreams into reality. After hiking through what felt like every property for sale over 100 acres in North Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee, we finally found the perfect spot. Why do we call our property Whippoorwill Woods? Did you know that whippoorwills don’t nest in trees? They lay their eggs on the ground in the forest. They’re birds that love camping! As soon as we heard the whippoorwills start singing in the spring, we knew it was the perfect name. We’re so excited to share our property with campers who love nature as much as we do. We specifically set up the campsites to give as much privacy as possible. We hope you’ll come visit and soak up the bird songs, the wind in the trees, and the beautiful sunsets over the mountains. We have 20 acres of savannah grassland full of native plants and wildflowers and over 80 untouched acres full of awesome rock formations and creeks with waterfalls available for you to hike. There's a stocked fish pond for catch and release fishing and a gorgeous view overlooking the Cumberland Plateau and the Sherwood Valley. Experienced and beginner campers are welcome! We live on one side of the property, so we’re available to assist (setting up tents for the first few times is no joke!) or we’re happy to give you as much space and solitude as you need. We have three campsites available in the native savannah grassland, and one that is a "hike-in and choose your favorite spot in the woods" site. We have a porta-potty available, but if you're hiking in, you'll want to bring some WAG bags with you. If you have any questions, or if there’s anything we can do to help, don’t hesitate to ask! We look forward to your visit! The Jansohn and Combs Families
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Woodybrooke Farm Campground

13. Woodybrooke Farm Campground

98%
(439)
23mi from Lookout Mountain · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Ider, AL
FREE CANOE RENTAL with any booking for Spring!! Pristine property with 4 stocked fishing ponds. Camp privately beside the water and relax in the canopy of our certified Alabama Treasured Forest. Swimming, fishing, hiking, biking, wildlife and bird watching. Amenities and activities available at Woodybrooke: *4 stocked ponds with bream and bass for fishing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking. *On-site canoe, jon boat and kids' kayaks rental available. *Firewood for campfires for purchase or wild harvest *Pristine private camping in a certified Alabama treasured forest on the southern edge of Cumberland Plateau *Hiking, biking, and wildlife watching opportunities *Potable fresh spring water available year-round. Complimentary coffee and tea. available for purchase farm-fresh eggs currently paused. *Hot outdoor shower, composting toilet, and community kitchen with drinkable spring water from the spigot and electricity ay community kitchen. *Electrical available at sites 6, 7, and 8 *Wi-Fi at commons area. Located a short distance renowned Cloudland Canyon, Little River Canyon, DeSoto State Park, Lookout Mountain hang gliding, horseback riding and the artsy community of Mentone Alabama. Located 35 minutes from Chattanooga on southern edge of Cumberland plateau. Easy drive to amazing overlooks. We are 97 miles from Atlanta, 107 miles from Birmingham, 120 miles from Nashville located 5 minutes off interstate! GPS location is 34.70560* N, 85.61740*
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$32
 / night

Straddling the border of Georgia and Tennessee, Lookout Mountain offers easy access to the natural wonders and outdoor recreation in multiple states. The mountain is also home Point Park and Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park, and three paid tourist attractions: Rock City, with unusual rock formations, garden, and panoramic views of up to seven states; the 145-foot Ruby Falls, one of the tallest and deepest underground waterfalls in the country; and Incline Railway, one of the world’s steepest passenger railways. Numerous parks and forests near Lookout Mountain offer a wide range of camping options.

96% (2.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds

The Falls at Sewanee Creek

1. The Falls at Sewanee Creek

98%
(681)
29mi from Lookout Mountain · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tracy City, TN
45 private acres on our homestead for you to roam. Eight eclectic sites to choose from ranging from primitive camping to a lovely log cabin. All except the log cabin lovingly built by the owner, loaded with creative touches from up-purposed materials. Featuring: * Two gorgeous waterfalls. Each of our stay-sites are located within about 100 yards of Fifty-foot tall Miller’s Falls. * Two large caves at the end of a short, but rugged hike. * A fairy Village filled with Hollow Oak Tree Fairy cottages and bio-luminescent trees that glow after dark. Magical. * Three acres for group camping centered on a well-equipped, covered outdoor kitchen. * Peaceful Meditation Retreats at the Outdoor Kitchen under brain-wave enhancing satellite dishes. * Certified Hypnotherapy Disclaimer: The flow of the waterfall is subject to fluctuations in temperature, seasonal droughts, & rain fall. The most favorable seasons for waterfall flow are fall, winter & early spring. We came to this magical place to found a self-reliant, homesteading eco-community when I retired from corporate life in 2006. It's called the Village on Sewanee Creek, named for the creek 800 feet below the bluff where we are located. I traveled the world as a senior executive for Baskin-Robbins, Dunkin' Donuts, Papa Johns, Blockbuster, 7-Eleven and other retail franchises, making the world safe for Pizza, Ice Cream, Pancakes Video Rentals and American convenience. And I was ready for something more fufilling. I scouted for a place of exquisite natural beauty and I found it here. I bought way too much land just before the real estate bust and learned how to turn a nice fortune into a very small one. I faced challenges and had lots of fun. Now I want to share our experience. If you love nature and the outdoors, this is the best place to celebrate it.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$36
 / night
Running Water Creek

4. Running Water Creek

84%
(338)
6.5mi from Lookout Mountain · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Guild, TN
Running Water Creek is a unique, fully off grid campground just 20 minutes to downtown Chattanooga. We have 80+ campsites spread out over 120 acres. Most of the roads are accessible in any small car, but some roads require 4x4 (they're marked with a sign). We have a bath house with toilets, showers, and sinks and even offer hot water! Our well and cabins are all solar-powered as we are not on the electric grid. Some info about the property: -we DO NOT have water or power hookups -we have gravel roads with a 5 MPH speed limit on the property (if you drive too fast the roads will seem rough) -we are right next to a highway and train tracks so there will be some noise (some days are better than others and we have no way of predicting how many trains will/will not go by) -none of our campsites have picnic tables (please plan accordingly) -most campsites have fire rings built, but if you choose a site without one you need to build your own
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$26
 / night
Great night roasting hotdogs and s’mores

6. Elk Head Overlook

95%
(317)
38mi from Lookout Mountain · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Pelham, TN
**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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$38
 / night
Quail Run Farm

7. Quail Run Farm

94%
(212)
2.5mi from Lookout Mountain · 31 sites · Tents · Chattanooga, TN
We have a working farm with sweeping views of Lookout mountain and only 12 minutes from all the comforts of downtown Chattanooga. Our expansive 120-acre property provides campers with the freedom to choose their camping spots anywhere on the farm. Farm animals include horses, cattle, hogs, chickens, goats, bees, stocked ponds, gardens and much more. We have strategically placed signs throughout the property to help you identify potential neighbors. If you desire the company of ducks, consider setting up camp near our picturesque duck pond. For those who prefer the rustic crowing of roosters to a phone alarm, we have four chicken coops dispersed across the farm. Our horses freely roam the front pastures. The cows enjoy grazing on lush grass and taking refreshing dips in the ponds. They also relish watching the sunset from the hill's vantage point, as it offers the best view on the farm. We are a working farm with staff tending to various jobs throughout the day. We have a map to show some of the popular locations campers have enjoyed in the past, but it is first come first serve. We intentionally leave some of our fields uncut. In some fields, the grass can come up above the knees. If you are picky with the grass, these are pastures on a farm and we do not cut them. We leave that to the animals to take care of. All of our staff are super friendly and happy to help guide you to the best camping spot and answer any questions. In searching for your campsite please note that there may be livestock in and around certain areas as we rotate pastures. Please respect farm rules and do not camp in a pasture with cattle and do not enter any gated area without speaking to someone on the farm who knows which fields the cattle is in. Potable well water can be located from the blue spigot outside of the staff housing area, in between the orange and green tiny home, and outside the outdoor shower. Fire rings and chopped wood are ready for you to borrow and return by the outdoor shower area. If you are interested in a more posh experience, we have yurts and tiny homes for rent Embracing farm life is not just an adventure but also a valuable learning opportunity, whether you're a family or an individual seeking a taste of the countryside lifestyle. We hope to see you soon on the farm!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Little Bluff

11. Little Bluff

93%
(51)
3.8mi from Lookout Mountain · 1 site · Tent, RV · Wildwood, GA
Just ten miles from Downtown Chattanooga, Little Buff is the spot to park your van or pitch your tent! We have beautiful mountain views and convenient access to I-24. The Tennessee River, historic attractions, outdoor adventures, and urban life are all nearby. Enjoy a private, roomy campsite with a fine gravel surface, fire pit, bench, and observation point. You will have plenty of space for your rig, vehicles, tents tables and chairs, canopy, or whatever clever camping system you employ. There's an outhouse, a potable water hydrant, and an electric power station on the property. Be sure to check out the extras. We have Firewood for sale: $10 for a big bundle of seasoned, split hardwood. Don't forget the kindling for a quick blaze! We can also supply a generator, all gassed up and ready to go. Please take a moment to read and observe the RULES. They are simple and important. We want to keep your visit fun and safe and affordable, as well as preserve the property for future guests. We are so glad you are coming to Little Bluff. Thank you for booking and enjoy your stay!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$28
 / night
Sunset viewing from The Point.  Bring your own chairs, firepits are provided.

12. Whippoorwill Woods Nature Retreat

98%
(99)
28mi from Lookout Mountain · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · South Pittsburg, TN
Opening March 1 for the 2025 camping season! Three years ago our multi-generational family decided to go on an adventure. We had talked about moving to the woods for years, but finally decided to turn our dreams into reality. After hiking through what felt like every property for sale over 100 acres in North Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee, we finally found the perfect spot. Why do we call our property Whippoorwill Woods? Did you know that whippoorwills don’t nest in trees? They lay their eggs on the ground in the forest. They’re birds that love camping! As soon as we heard the whippoorwills start singing in the spring, we knew it was the perfect name. We’re so excited to share our property with campers who love nature as much as we do. We specifically set up the campsites to give as much privacy as possible. We hope you’ll come visit and soak up the bird songs, the wind in the trees, and the beautiful sunsets over the mountains. We have 20 acres of savannah grassland full of native plants and wildflowers and over 80 untouched acres full of awesome rock formations and creeks with waterfalls available for you to hike. There's a stocked fish pond for catch and release fishing and a gorgeous view overlooking the Cumberland Plateau and the Sherwood Valley. Experienced and beginner campers are welcome! We live on one side of the property, so we’re available to assist (setting up tents for the first few times is no joke!) or we’re happy to give you as much space and solitude as you need. We have three campsites available in the native savannah grassland, and one that is a "hike-in and choose your favorite spot in the woods" site. We have a porta-potty available, but if you're hiking in, you'll want to bring some WAG bags with you. If you have any questions, or if there’s anything we can do to help, don’t hesitate to ask! We look forward to your visit! The Jansohn and Combs Families
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Woodybrooke Farm Campground

13. Woodybrooke Farm Campground

98%
(439)
23mi from Lookout Mountain · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Ider, AL
FREE CANOE RENTAL with any booking for Spring!! Pristine property with 4 stocked fishing ponds. Camp privately beside the water and relax in the canopy of our certified Alabama Treasured Forest. Swimming, fishing, hiking, biking, wildlife and bird watching. Amenities and activities available at Woodybrooke: *4 stocked ponds with bream and bass for fishing, swimming, canoeing, kayaking. *On-site canoe, jon boat and kids' kayaks rental available. *Firewood for campfires for purchase or wild harvest *Pristine private camping in a certified Alabama treasured forest on the southern edge of Cumberland Plateau *Hiking, biking, and wildlife watching opportunities *Potable fresh spring water available year-round. Complimentary coffee and tea. available for purchase farm-fresh eggs currently paused. *Hot outdoor shower, composting toilet, and community kitchen with drinkable spring water from the spigot and electricity ay community kitchen. *Electrical available at sites 6, 7, and 8 *Wi-Fi at commons area. Located a short distance renowned Cloudland Canyon, Little River Canyon, DeSoto State Park, Lookout Mountain hang gliding, horseback riding and the artsy community of Mentone Alabama. Located 35 minutes from Chattanooga on southern edge of Cumberland plateau. Easy drive to amazing overlooks. We are 97 miles from Atlanta, 107 miles from Birmingham, 120 miles from Nashville located 5 minutes off interstate! GPS location is 34.70560* N, 85.61740*
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$32
 / night

Camper favorites near Lookout Mountain

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best great views camping near Lookout Mountain guide

Where to go

Northwest Georgia

At the western edge of Lookout Mountain, Cloudland Canyon State Park offers a landscape of canyons, cliffs, waterfalls, and woods, along with overnight options of cottages, yurts, tent and RV sites, walk-in sites, and backcountry sites. At the Crockford-Pigeon Mountain Wildlife Management Area (WMA), enjoy miles of trails, abundant wildlife and hunting, and designated camping areas. Explore Fort Mountain State Park, then overnight in the campground or cottages. Further east, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is a vast area of wilderness with plenty of options for dispersed camping as well as developed campgrounds. 

Tennessee

Just over the border in Tennessee, enjoy outdoor adventures and historic sites at Chattanooga. Harrison Bay State Park in the Tennessee Valley offers lakes and woods, and both primitive and RV camping. White water enthusiasts can float, canoe, or raft two rivers at the Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park and stay in primitive riverside tent sites. Further north, chase waterfalls at Fall Creek Falls State Park and take your pick of several camping areas. Explore the Caney Fork Gorge, rivers and cascades at Rock Island State Park, and choose from tent sites, RV sites, and cabins. 

Alabama

Head west and south to explore the mountains and Piedmont region of Alabama. Camp in the woods of DeSoto State Park, which offers a wide range of primitive and backpacking tent sites, rustic cabins, and glamping tents, along with wildflowers and waterfalls. Lake Guntersville State Park is home to Alabama’s largest lake, golf, miles of trails, and overnight options that include campsites, cabins, and chalets. Nearby Cathedral Caverns State Park offers massive caves, stalagmites, and both a developed campground and backcountry sites.

When to go

Summers are the busiest times at Lookout Mountain. Visit in the fall for smaller crowds, cooler temperatures, and colorful fall foliage. Spring is another good option, and also the best time for chasing waterfalls. Different flowers bloom year-round at Rock City Gardens. The caves at Cloudland Canyon are only open in April, June, July, September, and October. Visit in winter to see frozen cascades.

Know before you go

  • Lookout Mountain is free to visit, but the Rock City, Ruby Mountain, and Incline Railway attractions and Point Park charge entrance fees.
  • Some popular parks require advance reservations for entrance and camping and may limit capacity at peak times.
  • Fishing licenses are required in Georgia, Tennessee, and Alabama. Georgia also requires a separate trout license to fish in designated trout waters.
  • Be bear aware—black bears can be found in the mountains and woods around Georgia.
  • Dispersed camping and recreation on Georgia Wildlife Managed Areas usually require a license, permit, or pass.