The best mountainous camping near Burkesville

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Burkesville sits tucked among rolling hills and ridges, with over 60 mountainous campsites that put you close to the edge of the Cumberland Plateau. Expect thick forest, winding creeks, and steep trails. Most sites average $40 a night, with options dipping as low as $25 if you’re watching your budget. Campfires are allowed almost everywhere. Bring your dog—pets are welcome at most sites. Showers are a common perk, so you can rinse off after a long hike or swim. Locals hit the trails or fish the nearby rivers before gathering at nightfall for a campfire. For a tried-and-tested stay, check out Belle and Beau Acres (589 reviews), Beardsnest (106 reviews), or Cedar trees and soft ground (20 reviews). If you want rugged mountains and easy access to hiking, fishing, and swimming, Burkesville delivers.

87% (833)

Top-rated campgrounds near Burkesville

2. Beardsnest

100%
(152)
44mi from Burkesville · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
This ecological art project is currently recruiting visitors to camp in beautiful fields, on woodland rim sites, or at delicate campsites located along a system of woodland trails. As of 2025, camping here provides a glimpse into the fourth year of succession. This current phase is characterized by spacious views of a gently rolling young prairie contrasted with the rocky and steep slopes of the mature forest. Most likely a good fit for self-sufficient types that like campsites with generous spacing, but still want to get out to the park quickly (~7 miles to the Visitors Center) or travel into Cave City (3 mi) for coffee/ice-cream/pizza/barbecue/bar/food/etc. Expand from the campsite into a sketch-work of trails, as if camping near the headquarters of a satellite nature reserve. All sites except Spicebush have a filtered water output. Spicebush campers will have water access next to parking. Camping funds allow us to plant trees (~525 seedlings as of March 2025), establish prairie grasses and flowers, restore wetlands, create trails, and remove invasive species. If you have only 2 days, a nice way to experience Mammoth Cave NP is to break the trip into 3 layers, covering the underworld (cave tours), upper world (hiking), and the water that connects the two (Green River kayaking). Mammoth Cave is unique in the way that a study of the underworld will repeatedly draw the mind into a creative space of imagining what is beneath the surface, how these worlds are connected, while navigating park land and water. Note that we offer kayak trips that can be tailored to your schedule and travel constraints. Thanks to our visitors for supporting this type of project! Bundles of dried and split firewood are available onsite, usually a mix of oak with a suggested donation of $6/bundle, delivered to the campsite. Kayaks are hosted on a suggested donation basis ($45) providing a flexible option for visitors to float the Green River through the national park. Pending availability, we offer tent setups as well to folks who want to camp but aren't traveling with gear (REI 4 person Half Dome). Tent setup comes with two sleeping pads (you will need pillows, blankets, etc.).
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night

3. Belle and Beau Acres

100%
(1255)
48mi from Burkesville · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
Whether you're looking for peace, relaxation, or riverside adventure, Belle and Beau Acres hits the mark for any nature enthusiast. Location, location! BBA has taken the guess work out of rustic camping. Consistently ranked as a Best of Tennessee Hipcamp and situated in a convenient spot for Upper Cumberland waterfalls, hiking, kayaking, lake life and more. A short list of what to expect on site includes: PRIVACY - ADVENTURE - GETAWAY Quick response time/Clear communication Spacious, shady, leaf-bed campsites 360 degree views of relaxing nature 27 Foot Waterfall (365 days of flow except during severe drought) Rock shelter under Ledge Waterfall Two shallow lazy rivers for soaking Hiking trails onsite Multiple spring-fed creeks Countless water cascades for exploring Star gazing over wide pastures Old forests for ample shade and hammock hanging Cellular reception at campsites (usually at least 1 bar) Please read the site descriptions carefully to match your style of camping with the appropriate campsite. BBA guests frequently camp with a tent, vehicle, smaller camper, hammock tent, roof top tent, pop-up camper and similar styles.  Most photos in this listing are taken onsite. Please keep in mind this is primitive and wild Tennessee landscape that may also contain poisonous plants and wildlife in or around camp. Access to fresh water fun is a short down-hill hike for all guests, with the exception of our hike-in campsites which are positioned alongside the river. Each spot has been strategically selected to provide as much privacy as possible, and comfortably accommodates groups with two vehicles. We provide a rock fire pit and heavy-duty, cast-iron grill grate. You provide everything else, including drinking water and personal toilet waste bags if you plan to use our system. The hike-in sites come with extra seating.  Every guest must be included on your reservation, and adult guests may be required to provide identification. Thank you! COMMUNITY COMFORT STATION: There is a comfort station with an outdoor shower stall for hanging your own solar shower bag. The comfort station also includes a changing room which doubles as a private place to use your portable camping toilet. A toilet seat and bucket system is provided but guests will need to use their own waste disposal bags, available at most camping supply stores. The backside of the comfort station has a rain barrel (not potable) collection system for extinguishing fires. OFF-ROAD CONDITIONS:  Due to the primitive nature of our location, all reservations should expect hilly terrain and potential bumpy or some muddy road access, especially after heavy rain. We ask all guests to help us minimize impacts by driving with care. Vehicles with low ground clearance or low-profile tires are no longer permitted to use the off-road drive and must park at the entrance. If you want a campsite with the shortest walk from the entrance parking area, you will want to select campsite 5, 9 or 6. When the road is open during unusually wet periods, we recommend AWD or 4WD as a precaution. We are continuously working on improvements for our off-road drive. Belle and Beau Acres is a farm homestead with a personal campground, conveniently located less than five minutes from I40.  Expect nothing short of 360 degree views of relaxing nature, privacy, and spontaneous adventure when recreating at this agritourism location. Central to the most beautiful middle Tennessee destinations, BBA is the perfect home base for hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing excursions to at least 10 nearby state parks and lakes. Conveniently located on the Eastern Highland Rim between Nashville, Knoxville and Chattanooga in the lower Appalachian mountains, this area sits at the Upper Cumberland Plateau and is part of Tennessee's largest micropolitan area of Cookeville. Visit popular nearby attractions such as Cummins Falls, Burgess Falls, Fancher Falls, Greeter Falls, Fall Creek Falls, Blue Hole, Rock Island, Center Hill Lake, Dale Hollow Lake, Caney Fork River, Standing Stone State Park, Virgin Falls, Rock Island, Cordell Hull, and Edgar Evins State Park. The choices are endless!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night

5. Cascades at Waterloo

100%
(28)
34mi from Burkesville · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Camping Enthusiasts—Your Adventure Awaits on Spring Creek! Welcome to your perfect nature escape—over a mile of stunning Spring Creek frontage with soaring limestone cliffs, shaded woodlands, and peaceful creekside camping spots. Whether you’re an avid angler, wildlife watcher, or someone who simply enjoys the sounds of rushing water and rustling leaves, this hidden gem offers a truly immersive back-to-nature experience. The Campsites Our primitive campsites are 'choose your own special spot', offering both wooded seclusion and sunny creekside views. Ideal for experienced backpacking campers, sites are walk in (no more than 1 mile). We encourage Leave No Trace principles—pack in, pack out, and respect the land. Creekside Activities Spend your days cooling off in natural swimming holes, floating peacefully down the creek, or casting a line for smallmouth and red eye bass. The area is teeming with wildlife—you may spot otters, mink, deer, and a variety of bird species from songbirds to eagles. In spring and early summer, wildflowers carpet the forest floor, adding a splash of color to your hikes. Nearby Attractions Just a short walk down the creek from your campsite, you'll find Waterloo Falls—a beautiful natural area featuring two scenic waterfalls, outdoor recreation, and event center. Guests are welcome to enjoy the area by adding a day-use fee to your reservation (details provided upon booking). Please note that Waterloo Falls occasionally closes for private events, so we recommend checking availability with us in advance if you'd like to include it in your adventure! Just 1 mile from the property is the Bend of the River Gun Range—perfect for shooting enthusiasts looking to sharpen their skills. For more conventional needs, Cookeville Center is a short 20-minute drive away, offering grocery stores, restaurants, and supply shops. You’ll be close enough for convenience, yet far enough to fully unplug and relax. Important Notes This is a primitive camping experience. No electricity, plumbing, or RV hookups. You must bring your own water, camp stove, and waste disposal supplies. This property is best suited for experienced campers who are comfortable with rugged, natural terrain. Come for the solitude. Stay for the soul-filling connection to nature.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$28
 / night

6. Muddy Pond River Retreat

75%
(4)
42mi from Burkesville · 2 sites · Lodging
Our 6 acre property sits on the E. Fork Obey river in the hollows of beautiful Muddy Pond, TN. The river runs right through the heart of our property which provides endless fun and exploration. With the 500 feet of river front, you have all the space to float, swim, fish or just simply relax in this secluded oasis of natural beauty. We have built an intimate 12x12 A-frame style cabin to accommodate 2 adults and up to 2 small children. Perfect for a family with small children looking for an easy camping trip or a couple in need of a nature retreat. This off grid cabin has everything you need to make living in nature as enjoyable as possible. Just enough to still feel close to nature without giving up any comfort. This cabin is located in Muddy Pond Mennonite community. Within two miles of our cabin you will find multiple leather goods stores, the Country Porch restaurant and store, Muddy pond general store, the variety store, sorghum mills, locally grown produce, hand made furniture and more. This is a wonderful and relaxing area full of adventure and hospitality. We are within 20 miles of 4 major waterfalls including burgess falls. Cummins falls, rock island and virgin falls. Several state parks, hiking trails and mountains are close by for an adventurous day trip. We hope you enjoy this place as much as our family does.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night

7. Futurology Farms

100%
(10)
29mi from Burkesville · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Futurology Farms is nestled along the Cumberland River in Central Tennessee and features seclusion, beautiful countryside vistas, bountiful river views, and wildlife. You'll find water activities on the river and hiking at the farm and state parks close by. It has been a lifelong dream and vision for our family to have a magical place with lots of land to create an experience. The farm is brand new as of September 2020, so there's lots to do and is a work in progress with still much beautification to be done. Despite the development in progress, the farm is gorgeous and there's lots to do and explore on and around the property.The mountain farm is a passion of ours and we seek to create a space that will be self-sustaining, leave a minimal carbon footprint, and foster a culture of farm-to-table lifestyle. In addition to the environmentally conscious aspects of the long-term plans for the farm, we have dreams to craft a space that encourages and promotes the arts, both visual and performing. Jackson County has been coined a sportsman paradise by those who know of the hidden gems this beautiful piece of Tennessee has to offer. We are just an hour outside Nashville, 25 minutes from Cookeville and Livingston, 20 minutes from Dale Hollow Lake, and 9 parks with hikes and waterfalls within 45 minutes. We have 3 boat launches right on the Cumberland River within 3 miles. You can hike, swim, kayak, canoe, jetski, boat, or float on the river. There are several marinas within 30 minutes. It's important to know that this is a raw and challenging terrain. It's a mountain or some may say a hill. We call it a mountain because of the rock bluffs, cliffs, and dramatic nature of this spot. As such, there are cliffs you could fall off, trails that are difficult and dangerous at times depending on your hiking skill level. These are for the adventurous type and use is at your own risk.This property has a magical feel and really allows you to connect with nature in a peaceful, beautiful, and serene place. We are proud to be the guardians and caretakers of this beautiful land and we hope you enjoy it too. :) 
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$40
 / night

Burkesville sits tucked among rolling hills and ridges, with over 60 mountainous campsites that put you close to the edge of the Cumberland Plateau. Expect thick forest, winding creeks, and steep trails. Most sites average $40 a night, with options dipping as low as $25 if you’re watching your budget. Campfires are allowed almost everywhere. Bring your dog—pets are welcome at most sites. Showers are a common perk, so you can rinse off after a long hike or swim. Locals hit the trails or fish the nearby rivers before gathering at nightfall for a campfire. For a tried-and-tested stay, check out Belle and Beau Acres (589 reviews), Beardsnest (106 reviews), or Cedar trees and soft ground (20 reviews). If you want rugged mountains and easy access to hiking, fishing, and swimming, Burkesville delivers.

87% (833)

Top-rated campgrounds near Burkesville

2. Beardsnest

100%
(152)
44mi from Burkesville · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
This ecological art project is currently recruiting visitors to camp in beautiful fields, on woodland rim sites, or at delicate campsites located along a system of woodland trails. As of 2025, camping here provides a glimpse into the fourth year of succession. This current phase is characterized by spacious views of a gently rolling young prairie contrasted with the rocky and steep slopes of the mature forest. Most likely a good fit for self-sufficient types that like campsites with generous spacing, but still want to get out to the park quickly (~7 miles to the Visitors Center) or travel into Cave City (3 mi) for coffee/ice-cream/pizza/barbecue/bar/food/etc. Expand from the campsite into a sketch-work of trails, as if camping near the headquarters of a satellite nature reserve. All sites except Spicebush have a filtered water output. Spicebush campers will have water access next to parking. Camping funds allow us to plant trees (~525 seedlings as of March 2025), establish prairie grasses and flowers, restore wetlands, create trails, and remove invasive species. If you have only 2 days, a nice way to experience Mammoth Cave NP is to break the trip into 3 layers, covering the underworld (cave tours), upper world (hiking), and the water that connects the two (Green River kayaking). Mammoth Cave is unique in the way that a study of the underworld will repeatedly draw the mind into a creative space of imagining what is beneath the surface, how these worlds are connected, while navigating park land and water. Note that we offer kayak trips that can be tailored to your schedule and travel constraints. Thanks to our visitors for supporting this type of project! Bundles of dried and split firewood are available onsite, usually a mix of oak with a suggested donation of $6/bundle, delivered to the campsite. Kayaks are hosted on a suggested donation basis ($45) providing a flexible option for visitors to float the Green River through the national park. Pending availability, we offer tent setups as well to folks who want to camp but aren't traveling with gear (REI 4 person Half Dome). Tent setup comes with two sleeping pads (you will need pillows, blankets, etc.).
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night

3. Belle and Beau Acres

100%
(1255)
48mi from Burkesville · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
Whether you're looking for peace, relaxation, or riverside adventure, Belle and Beau Acres hits the mark for any nature enthusiast. Location, location! BBA has taken the guess work out of rustic camping. Consistently ranked as a Best of Tennessee Hipcamp and situated in a convenient spot for Upper Cumberland waterfalls, hiking, kayaking, lake life and more. A short list of what to expect on site includes: PRIVACY - ADVENTURE - GETAWAY Quick response time/Clear communication Spacious, shady, leaf-bed campsites 360 degree views of relaxing nature 27 Foot Waterfall (365 days of flow except during severe drought) Rock shelter under Ledge Waterfall Two shallow lazy rivers for soaking Hiking trails onsite Multiple spring-fed creeks Countless water cascades for exploring Star gazing over wide pastures Old forests for ample shade and hammock hanging Cellular reception at campsites (usually at least 1 bar) Please read the site descriptions carefully to match your style of camping with the appropriate campsite. BBA guests frequently camp with a tent, vehicle, smaller camper, hammock tent, roof top tent, pop-up camper and similar styles.  Most photos in this listing are taken onsite. Please keep in mind this is primitive and wild Tennessee landscape that may also contain poisonous plants and wildlife in or around camp. Access to fresh water fun is a short down-hill hike for all guests, with the exception of our hike-in campsites which are positioned alongside the river. Each spot has been strategically selected to provide as much privacy as possible, and comfortably accommodates groups with two vehicles. We provide a rock fire pit and heavy-duty, cast-iron grill grate. You provide everything else, including drinking water and personal toilet waste bags if you plan to use our system. The hike-in sites come with extra seating.  Every guest must be included on your reservation, and adult guests may be required to provide identification. Thank you! COMMUNITY COMFORT STATION: There is a comfort station with an outdoor shower stall for hanging your own solar shower bag. The comfort station also includes a changing room which doubles as a private place to use your portable camping toilet. A toilet seat and bucket system is provided but guests will need to use their own waste disposal bags, available at most camping supply stores. The backside of the comfort station has a rain barrel (not potable) collection system for extinguishing fires. OFF-ROAD CONDITIONS:  Due to the primitive nature of our location, all reservations should expect hilly terrain and potential bumpy or some muddy road access, especially after heavy rain. We ask all guests to help us minimize impacts by driving with care. Vehicles with low ground clearance or low-profile tires are no longer permitted to use the off-road drive and must park at the entrance. If you want a campsite with the shortest walk from the entrance parking area, you will want to select campsite 5, 9 or 6. When the road is open during unusually wet periods, we recommend AWD or 4WD as a precaution. We are continuously working on improvements for our off-road drive. Belle and Beau Acres is a farm homestead with a personal campground, conveniently located less than five minutes from I40.  Expect nothing short of 360 degree views of relaxing nature, privacy, and spontaneous adventure when recreating at this agritourism location. Central to the most beautiful middle Tennessee destinations, BBA is the perfect home base for hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing excursions to at least 10 nearby state parks and lakes. Conveniently located on the Eastern Highland Rim between Nashville, Knoxville and Chattanooga in the lower Appalachian mountains, this area sits at the Upper Cumberland Plateau and is part of Tennessee's largest micropolitan area of Cookeville. Visit popular nearby attractions such as Cummins Falls, Burgess Falls, Fancher Falls, Greeter Falls, Fall Creek Falls, Blue Hole, Rock Island, Center Hill Lake, Dale Hollow Lake, Caney Fork River, Standing Stone State Park, Virgin Falls, Rock Island, Cordell Hull, and Edgar Evins State Park. The choices are endless!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night

5. Cascades at Waterloo

100%
(28)
34mi from Burkesville · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Camping Enthusiasts—Your Adventure Awaits on Spring Creek! Welcome to your perfect nature escape—over a mile of stunning Spring Creek frontage with soaring limestone cliffs, shaded woodlands, and peaceful creekside camping spots. Whether you’re an avid angler, wildlife watcher, or someone who simply enjoys the sounds of rushing water and rustling leaves, this hidden gem offers a truly immersive back-to-nature experience. The Campsites Our primitive campsites are 'choose your own special spot', offering both wooded seclusion and sunny creekside views. Ideal for experienced backpacking campers, sites are walk in (no more than 1 mile). We encourage Leave No Trace principles—pack in, pack out, and respect the land. Creekside Activities Spend your days cooling off in natural swimming holes, floating peacefully down the creek, or casting a line for smallmouth and red eye bass. The area is teeming with wildlife—you may spot otters, mink, deer, and a variety of bird species from songbirds to eagles. In spring and early summer, wildflowers carpet the forest floor, adding a splash of color to your hikes. Nearby Attractions Just a short walk down the creek from your campsite, you'll find Waterloo Falls—a beautiful natural area featuring two scenic waterfalls, outdoor recreation, and event center. Guests are welcome to enjoy the area by adding a day-use fee to your reservation (details provided upon booking). Please note that Waterloo Falls occasionally closes for private events, so we recommend checking availability with us in advance if you'd like to include it in your adventure! Just 1 mile from the property is the Bend of the River Gun Range—perfect for shooting enthusiasts looking to sharpen their skills. For more conventional needs, Cookeville Center is a short 20-minute drive away, offering grocery stores, restaurants, and supply shops. You’ll be close enough for convenience, yet far enough to fully unplug and relax. Important Notes This is a primitive camping experience. No electricity, plumbing, or RV hookups. You must bring your own water, camp stove, and waste disposal supplies. This property is best suited for experienced campers who are comfortable with rugged, natural terrain. Come for the solitude. Stay for the soul-filling connection to nature.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$28
 / night

6. Muddy Pond River Retreat

75%
(4)
42mi from Burkesville · 2 sites · Lodging
Our 6 acre property sits on the E. Fork Obey river in the hollows of beautiful Muddy Pond, TN. The river runs right through the heart of our property which provides endless fun and exploration. With the 500 feet of river front, you have all the space to float, swim, fish or just simply relax in this secluded oasis of natural beauty. We have built an intimate 12x12 A-frame style cabin to accommodate 2 adults and up to 2 small children. Perfect for a family with small children looking for an easy camping trip or a couple in need of a nature retreat. This off grid cabin has everything you need to make living in nature as enjoyable as possible. Just enough to still feel close to nature without giving up any comfort. This cabin is located in Muddy Pond Mennonite community. Within two miles of our cabin you will find multiple leather goods stores, the Country Porch restaurant and store, Muddy pond general store, the variety store, sorghum mills, locally grown produce, hand made furniture and more. This is a wonderful and relaxing area full of adventure and hospitality. We are within 20 miles of 4 major waterfalls including burgess falls. Cummins falls, rock island and virgin falls. Several state parks, hiking trails and mountains are close by for an adventurous day trip. We hope you enjoy this place as much as our family does.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$100
 / night

7. Futurology Farms

100%
(10)
29mi from Burkesville · 5 sites · Tents, Lodging
Futurology Farms is nestled along the Cumberland River in Central Tennessee and features seclusion, beautiful countryside vistas, bountiful river views, and wildlife. You'll find water activities on the river and hiking at the farm and state parks close by. It has been a lifelong dream and vision for our family to have a magical place with lots of land to create an experience. The farm is brand new as of September 2020, so there's lots to do and is a work in progress with still much beautification to be done. Despite the development in progress, the farm is gorgeous and there's lots to do and explore on and around the property.The mountain farm is a passion of ours and we seek to create a space that will be self-sustaining, leave a minimal carbon footprint, and foster a culture of farm-to-table lifestyle. In addition to the environmentally conscious aspects of the long-term plans for the farm, we have dreams to craft a space that encourages and promotes the arts, both visual and performing. Jackson County has been coined a sportsman paradise by those who know of the hidden gems this beautiful piece of Tennessee has to offer. We are just an hour outside Nashville, 25 minutes from Cookeville and Livingston, 20 minutes from Dale Hollow Lake, and 9 parks with hikes and waterfalls within 45 minutes. We have 3 boat launches right on the Cumberland River within 3 miles. You can hike, swim, kayak, canoe, jetski, boat, or float on the river. There are several marinas within 30 minutes. It's important to know that this is a raw and challenging terrain. It's a mountain or some may say a hill. We call it a mountain because of the rock bluffs, cliffs, and dramatic nature of this spot. As such, there are cliffs you could fall off, trails that are difficult and dangerous at times depending on your hiking skill level. These are for the adventurous type and use is at your own risk.This property has a magical feel and really allows you to connect with nature in a peaceful, beautiful, and serene place. We are proud to be the guardians and caretakers of this beautiful land and we hope you enjoy it too. :) 
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
from 
$40
 / night

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Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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