Beach camping in Tennessee

Waterfront camping makes the most of Tennessee's lakes and rivers.

97% (1076 reviews)
  1. Tennessee
97% (1076 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Tennessee

Community favorites in Tennessee

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds in Tennessee

Stories from the community

Dog-friendly getaways

12 top beach campgrounds in Tennessee

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Belle and Beau Acres

19 sites · RVs, Tents33 acres · Baxter, TN
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 depending on their selection. Most of the 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 campsites. 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: Fall 2024 update, we have been making improvements and current road conditions are great! Due to the primitive nature of our location, all reservations should expect hilly terrain and potential bumpy or soggy road access, especially after heavy rain. We ask all guests to help us minimize impacts by driving with care. We do not recommend vehicles with low ground clearance or low profile tires. An important note, guests always have the choice to park their vehicles at the entrance. When the road is open in Spring or unusually wet seasons, we recommend AWD or 4WD as a precaution. 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 day 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! The Klein family purchased their home in 2015 after grieving the sudden loss of a beloved family member and realizing that life is truly too short. They traded their bustling city life for a more permanent connection to nature. This small family of four lives at the entrance of their 33 acre old ranch, hosting primitive camping and leaning into a homesteading lifestyle. It wasn't until the family started shaping the land for their personal use until they realized the abundant beauty that surrounds the home. Hidden away and inaccessible were gorgeous rocky cliffs, rivers and even a waterfall! Hipcamp has provided an opportunity for them to carefully share this experience with others. On the land, they enjoy cooling off in the spring water, growing organic food, foraging for wild edibles, hiking, and exploring their onsite rivers and natural springs. Your host Christine is creative and loves working in her onsite fiber studio while her husband David is often found tending to his young fruit and nut orchard and organic crops. Their son Elliott and daughter Freya are both students at Tennessee Tech University. David, Elliott, and Freya also enjoy playing music together professionally in their band My Heart Your Heart.
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$40
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98%
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Blue Heron Landing

7 sites · RVs, Tents358 acres · Lobelville, TN
Blue Heron Campground: A Hidden Gem of History and Nature Nestled along the Tennessee River, Blue Heron Campground offers a unique blend of rich history and natural beauty. Once home to the Cherokee Indians, this 358-acre property is surrounded by water on all sides, boasting a mile-and-a-half shoreline. Just to the north, a designated 20-mile Wildlife Refuge begins, following the river and offering plenty of opportunities for nature enthusiasts. The land itself is a treasure trove, with rich farmland that has grazed cattle and now offers primitive camping with no services, located just 10 miles west of Lobelville, Tennessee. People's Landing, now a swim beach and sand boat ramp, was once a bustling port of commerce. Before the advent of good roads, steamboats, ferry boats, and trains were the primary means of transportation. Just north of People's Landing, Daniel's Landing housed a post office and small store, serving the local community. The Tennessee River is one of only three rivers in the United States that flow north, making it a unique feature of the region. Today, visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, or simply watching the boats and barges pass by. For those looking to explore, a 20-mile day trip to Loretta Lynn's ranch or a 70-mile journey to Nashville awaits. The campground offers 358 acres of open meadows and forests to hike and explore, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the local wildlife and a beautiful sunset over the river to end the day. Blue Heron Campground is truly a hidden gem, offering a perfect escape into history and nature.
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$25
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99%
(76)

Mountainview Rock Island rv/tent

1 site · RV, Tent16 acres · Rock Island, TN
Little Bone Cave campground is in the mountains of Tennessee with hiking trails and a beautiful view located on 16 acres. This campground adjoins Bone Cave State Natural Area located in Van Buren County. Big Bone Cave is a 400 acre natural area with trails and a cave that contained bones of a giant ground sloth discovered in 1811 and is maintained by Rock Island State Park. The cave is not currently open to the public. Rock Island State Park (swimming, fishing and hiking) is only 6 miles from the campground and Fall Creek Falls State Park (swimming, fishing, hiking and home of the Annual Mountaineer Folk Festival) is a beautiful 25 mile drive through the winding roads and mountains of Van Buren county. A public boat ramp maintained by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is two miles away to access the Caney Fork River. Come enjoy with friends and family. Campsite #1, "Valley View" is a Rv with 30 amp electric with sewer and water or it can be a primitive campsite that is a wide open space and is approximately 1-2 acres with a beautiful view overlooking the valley below. We do have electric, sewer and water 340 gl tank with a hose, a picnic table and a fire ring at this site. if you'd prefer, you can locate a spot of your choosing off the beaten path anywhere within our 16 acres (ask the hostess for details). We now have rv hook up with a 30 amp electric service, sewer and water available. We have wildlife such as bobcats, coyotes, deer, owls, snakes, turkeys and rumor has it, maybe even a bigfoot. I hope you come enjoy friends, family and nature to make this an incredible experience.
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$45
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98%
(52)

Awakening Adventures

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents42 acres · Grandview, TN
Welcome to our serene and rejuvenating private getaway nestled within 42 acres of forested beauty. The Sanctuary offers an unparalleled experience where nature meets comfort, allowing you and your group to unwind and reconnect with the tranquil surroundings. We have added multiple tree swings throughout the forest. We are uniquely situated on the edge of the Tennessee Cumberland Plateau and the Tennessee river valley. We are currently offering 4 treehouse dwellings to share our peaceful land full of God's promises. The dwellings are spaced far enough apart for privacy yet not to far of a walk to the common area where the kitchen and shower are. You'll be surprised at how cool the tents stay under the forest canopy in the heat of summer. Then in the colder months we have various heating options to keep you cozy in 3 of the dwellings I hope you come to share this with us, it's an amazingly peaceful area. Nearly 3 miles of hiking trails to enjoy during your visit. Take a spur trail off the main trail loop and there is a prayer shelter with a fire pit inspired by Luke 6:12 in the back corner of the property. Located at the edge of the prarie on the main trail is a sunrise/sunset/bird-watching platform that is 20 feet in the air with a 2 stage bridge to access it. We updated the outdoor kitchen with a 3 burner propane stove, propane grill and hot running water with a 3 bay sink. Other cooking options include a tripod over the fire and a charcoal grill. A short 10-minute drive to fire tower rd. brings you to a 2 mile loop trail with 2 waterfalls, Upper and Lower Piney Falls. Ozone falls is just a 20 minute drive. Then toward Spring City is Stinging Fork Falls at 25 minutes. Black mountain is my new favorite place especially the south overlook! The Hiking possibilities are nearly endless and close. I'll highlight one thru hike here since both trailheads are only 20 minutes away and is easy to coordinate with only 2 vehicles. It's a 10.2 mile hike that can be done in either direction and has a little something for everyone including a cave, boulder field, cascade and waterfall. Then you have massive Watts Bar Lake which is only 20 minutes away with a plethora of activities including the excursions we offer! We look forward to hosting you!
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$31.50
 / night
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Camping in the woods in Ocoee

7 sites · RVs11 acres · Ocoee, TN
The Farm on Federal is a beautiful 11 acre property in the heart of Ocoee, Tennessee! Park your RV, camper, camper van or even tent camp on our beautiful forested farm. You will have access to many different kinds of sites on our property. We offer full hookup RV sites as well as camper van and car camping sites and even rustic tent campsites! We raise rotationally-grazed, beyond-organic, forest-fed and pasture raised chicken eggs, meat chickens, pork and lamb. Peak into our small-scale farming operation! You will be in the middle of Ocoee - close to all kinds of water adventures on the Ocoee or Hiwassee River and Parksville Lake. We do offer kayak and tube rentals as well as a shuttle service to the river! There is also lots of land adventures like hiking, mountain biking and much more in the Cherokee National Forest. Also located only 15 minutes from downtown Cleveland and 45 minutes from downtown Chattanooga. We offer a full hook up as well as sewer dumping station for a small fee, fast Wifi, fire wood, fresh farm products, as well as from scratch sourdough products/baked goods/other tasty treats and much more! For more information, you can view our website. Other Things to Note: While we have well behaved and calm animals, this is not a petting zoo. Please do not approach the animals. Also, all fences are hot, meaning electrified and on... do not touch!
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$19
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The Ponderosa

4 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · South Pittsburg, TN
PLEASE READ before you book! PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT! Pool closes the second weekend of Sept. 2025 we will have a brand new pavilion in pool area! WE WILL BE UNDER CONSTRUCTION BUT IT WILL NOT INTERRUPT OUR HIPPIES STAY. We rent our pool out on weekends but if you would like to have it while you are here let us know and we will rent it to you if it's not booked. $300 all day We look forward to seeing everyone! See Lodge cast iron factory. Enjoy our small town. We're close to Rock City and the Chattanooga choo choo and other great sites in Chattanooga Tn. Enjoy our swimming pool that opens in Late May but closes on the first cold snap, usually end of Sept every fall. Many amenities such as bathhouse, free Wi-Fi, grill, corn hole game and fire pit with wood. South Pittsburg, Tn is the home of Lodge Cast iron! Every year there is a National Cornbread Festival. Bring a tent and stay with us! POSITIVES OF STAYING WITH US 1. We will treat you like family. 2. We supply firewood. 3. We supply gas for the grill. 4. The pool is yours at no charge if there is no party scheduled. 5. We have free coffee in our pool area kitchen. A small refrigerator and a microwave. 6. HOT SHOWERS!! shampoo, conditioner, soap, towels and washcloths provided. 7. Bathroom and sink 8. Back porch to relax on if you choose to. 9. Free Wi-Fi 10. Kayaking in area. 11. Hiking trails all over the Jasper Highlands! very close to us. 12. We have two horses you can pet and spend time with, but don't turn your back on the brown one! she will bite your butt! lol! (This should've been in the negatives, lol!!) Here are the NEGATIVES OF STAYING AT THE PONDEROSA 1. We have 5 German shepherds in a kennel that will welcome you upon your arrival with barking. They settle down eventually. 2. We have a nosy Monkey named Daisy Mae who watches our campers and pool parties continually. 3. We rent our pool out so it may not always be available to you when you're here and the bathroom is shared with them during your stay. 4. Our property is across the street from a scrap metal yard that opens too early.
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$35
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Big East Fork Valley

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents200 acres · Fairview, TN
Located in a quiet, pristine valley, adjacent to the Natchez Trace State Park twenty miles southwest of Nashville, Tennessee, 2500 acres of forested land was purchased to protect the biodiversity of this quickly developing region. Big East Fork is a preserved natural space dedicated to connecting people to Tennessee's beautiful wilderness. Ten private parcels were cobbled together, originally built as private residences and farmstead. All houses are available for rent and camping sites are located near by. Twenty miles of hiking trails wind throughout the forest, leading campers by the lake, creeks, and seasonal and perennial small waterfalls. Wildlife residents include hawks, turkeys, coyotes, beavers, and deer.  Showers are available at Big East Fork Retreat. See bigeastfork.com.
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$60
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Riverbend Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent4 acres · Pegram, TN
Escape to the serene beauty of Riverbend Ranch, a haven tucked into a quiet bend of the Harpeth River. We are just 25 min from downtown Nashville, but feel a world away. This exclusive campsite offers a blend of natural tranquility and convenient access to city amenities. Riverbend Ranch is 4 acres of natural beauty—offering private direct access to the river and a beautiful rock beach that supports over 85 species of fish and at least 25 species of freshwater mussels. Open skies, shady trees, and peaceful water make it the perfect backdrop for a weekend reset. 📅 Booking Availability • Riverbend Ranch is primarily operated as an bnb (check us out!) We only allow one group at at time to reserve the property. Because we prioritize bnb listings, Hipcamp bookings are only accepted within 72 hours of arrival and only if the house is not already booked. We know that’s not ideal for long-term planning, but it allows us to share the land with Hipcampers at a lower rate when available.
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$85
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Shalom Selah Hills

2 sites · Lodging28 acres · Cedar Grove, TN
Located just north of Jackson Tennessee, between Memphis and Nashville we found this little piece of heaven to share. Come experience rustic camping amongst the Pines and Cedars of our 28 acre forest. Hike the trails with plenty of wildlife and beautiful rolling hills of many native trees. Just 8 miles north of us you will find the beautiful Carroll County 1000 Acre Lake featuring swimming, boating and fishing. Just 14 miles east of us is the Parker's Crossroads Civil War Battle site and park. Plenty to see and do. Come check us out. Find serenity and peace hereLearn more about this land:Located just north of Jackson Tennessee, between Memphis and Nashville our family found this little piece of heaven to share. Come experience rustic shelter camping amongst the Pines and Cedars of our 28 acre forest. Fall is beautiful here! Hike the trails with plenty of wildlife and beautiful rolling hills of many native trees. Just 8 miles north of us you will find the beautiful Carroll County 1000 Acre Lake featuring swimming, boating and fishing. Just 14 miles east of us is the Parker's Crossroads Civil War Battle site and park. There is plenty to see and do. Our first camp site offers a shelter, fire ring, picnic table, preparation table, and lanterns. We also provide complimentary citronella candles for lighting and bug repellent. Look no further. You have found a place of shalom shalom to Selah ~ perfect peace to rest.
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$22.50
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Seven Pines River Resort

27 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Waynesboro, TN
Nestled along the serene Buffalo River, Seven Pines River Resort offers the ideal escape to nature. Whether you're camping under the stars, enjoying the comfort of a geodome, or relaxing by the river, our resort provides a variety of accommodations for every type of camper. Tent Camping: Choose from our scenic spots at Field of Dreams, River View, or River's Edge North. Perfect for families, these sites offer an authentic camping experience with easy access to the river and nearby trails. RV Camping: Our Field of Dreams area welcomes RVs up to 24 feet, with room for dry-docking and welcomed to bring generators. Experience the beauty of the outdoors with all the comforts of home. Geodomes: For a unique glamping experience, our adults-only geodomes offer year-round luxury. With a king-sized bed, AC/heat, and a kitchenette, these domes provide a cozy retreat for couples seeking seclusion and comfort. At Seven Pines, you'll find a welcoming atmosphere, stunning views, and activities for every interest. From tubing on the Buffalo River to hiking our Hidden Holler Trail, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, our friendly hospitality ensures you’ll have a memorable stay. Come unwind, explore, and reconnect with nature at Seven Pines River Resort!
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$60
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Other options in Tennessee

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
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Beach camping in Tennessee guide

Overview

Yes, Tennessee is a landlocked state. So, if to you, the word "beach" can only mean oceanfront property, then you'll strike out when looking for a beachfront place to camp. But if your horizons are broad enough to include waterfront campgrounds on rivers and lakes, then beach camping in Tennessee is a dream. Bring a fishing pole, a paddleboard, a kayak, or just a camera, and set out to make the most of a dreamy campsite on the water, some with smooth-sand beaches, others with accessible boat docks, and still others on grassy riverbanks. Book your beach campsite and plan to take a sunrise paddle or sit around the fire pit and admire the sunset. The topography changes if you're by a babbling creek in the Great Smoky Mountains, listening to a waterfall on the Cumberland Plateau, or at a serene lake in a state park. Choose the one that fits with your outdoor adventure appetite, but no matter what, don't forget the sunscreen, your sunglasses, and a beach towel.