Beach camping in Tennessee

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

97% (777 reviews)
97% (777 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Tennessee

Under $50

Star Hosts in Tennessee

12 top beach campgrounds in Tennessee

100%
(994)

Belle and Beau Acres

17 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/last minute requests accepted Spacious, shady, leaf-bed campsites 360 degree views of relaxing nature 27 Foot Waterfall (365 days of flow) 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. If you are considering camping for the first time, we recommend trying a location with bathrooms and running water before attempting a primitive, off road location such as ours. Campsite capacities are intended for large families, not large adult groups. However, we will consider hosting your adult group if you would like to reach out and discuss it with us before requesting to book. 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 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. We close road access December-March and guests are required to hike in from the entrance of the property, less than a mile distance total. 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 is a student at Tennessee Tech University and their daughter Freya is a student at Upperman High School. David, Elliott, and Freya enjoy playing music together professionally in their band My Heart Your Heart.
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$40
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98%
(119)

Blue Heron Landing

6 sites · RVs, Tents358 acres · Lobelville, TN
Blue Heron Campground was once home to the Cherokee Indians. Property is surrounded on all sides by water and has a mile and a half shoreline on the Tennessee river. Just to the North begins a designated 20 mile Wildlife Refuge following the river. It is 340 acres to roam and has rich farmland that has also grazed cattle. People's landing is now the swim beach and sand boat ramp. It was a port of commerce when the main types of transportation, prior to good roads, were the steamboats, ferry boats, and trains.  Just north of People's landing used to be a post office and small store at Daniel's Landing.The Tennessee River is one of only three rivers that flow North in the United States.People can now use it for camping, fishing or just watching the boats and barges  go by. Enjoy! Learn more about this land:Blue Heron Campground is primitive camping with no services located 10 miles west of Lobelville, Tennessee. There is a marina for supplies within 3 miles. You can camp right on the shoreline of the Tennessee river and enjoy the river for fishing or swimming. Take a 20 mile day trip to Loretta Lynn's ranch or go 70 miles to Nashville. Enjoy 358 acres to hike and explore open meadows and forest. Enjoy the birds and the boats going by. Hopefully a beautiful sunset over the river to end the day.
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$25
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(32)

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
 / night
98%
(40)

Awakening Adventures

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents42 acres · TN
Welcome to our serene and rejuvenating private getaway nestled within 42 acres of forested beauty. Our property offers an unparalleled experience where nature meets comfort, allowing you and your group to unwind and reconnect with the tranquil surroundings. 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. The latest improvement 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 and running water. Other cooking options include a tripod over the fire and a charcoal grill. A short 10 minute drive to firetower 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. 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! We look forward to hosting you!
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$35
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98%
(28)

Seven Pines River Resort

43 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Waynesboro, TN
Nestled in the heart of Tennessee lies 30 acres of rolling pastures lined by woods along the pristine Buffalo River. Seven Pines River Resort is set just off the beaten path of a little country lane with sprawling meadows to park, camp and enjoy the outdoors. The River provides great fishing, swimming, and kayaking. Book your stay and let the captivating beauty of Seven Pines River Resort create memories that will last a lifetime. Share your unforgettable moments with the hashtag #SevenPinesRiverResort on social media and join the community of nature lovers discovering the wonders of this enchanting escape. Your dream camping adventure awaits!
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$60
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98%
(21)

Camping at The Farm On Federal

6 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Ocoee, TN
The Farm on Federal is a beautiful 15 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, and pork. 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, or 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 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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$15
 / night
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(77)

The Ponderosa

4 sites · Tents5 acres · South Pittsburg, TN
PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT!! We are CLOSING THE POOL ON SEPT 17TH, 2023. 2024 WILL BRING IN A NEW POOL LINER!! YAY!! PLANS TO RE-OPEN POOL FOR 2024 IS MAY!! NO HOT TUB! We lost our hot tub last year due to overuse of patrons from pool partiers. 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. $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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$25
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(63)

Grandview Camp @ Lemon Lane Farm

6 sites · Lodging116 acres · Grandview, TN
Lemon Lane Farm, a 116 acre farm on the Cumberland Plateau, will take you to another place. Come relax, wonder our trails (1.5-5 mile options), detox in our sauna, meet and play with our animals, fish in our pond, visit our general store, visit nearby waterfalls (3 of them within 5-20 min drive). Stay at the farm and never leave or explore the amazing surrounding areas. Each site at Grandview Camp is unique and has its own private space, visit with the owners of the farm and other campers or be completely private and stay to yourself, the choice is yours. UNPLUG from the world and RECONNECT with nature, animals and the ones you love.
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$100
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77%
(13)

Drifting Meadows

99 sites · LodgingTellico Plains, TN
Hello! We are Drifting Meadows. A small community located just shy of three hours from Atlanta. Nestled in TN. Not far from Chattanooga and Knoxville. We strive to hold art events, educational seminars, weddings, corporate get-aways and much more. We look forward to hearing from you. Learn more about this land:Hello! We are Drifting Meadows. A small community located just shy of three hours from Atlanta. Nestled in the Tennessee mountains. Not far from Chattanooga and Knoxville.  Primitive camp spots "with community campfire" available with quick access to nearby waterfalls, a lake, and many hiking trailheads. You can also get into town to see live bluegrass bands on the weekends or stop by the local bakery for some amazing fresh food selections. We provide fire wood and portable toilets. Please note that we are off grid so we request that you use all degradable products if possible. (shower supplies are provided). Also, we do request that any trash/recycling products are taken with you when you leave. Looking forward to hosting you. 
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$25
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(16)

The Forest Retreat

20 sites · RVs, Tents136 acres · Waverly, TN
Learn more about this land:Enjoy the wonders of the Tennessee countryside, the site is located on the edge of the Tennessee River within 20 minutes of Waverly TN. A public boat ramp is a little further down Bear Creek Road (1 mile) where you can put your boats into the water and enjoy the over 250sq mile lake. The Forest Retreat is a great location to enjoy camping in a pine forest area and enjoy the wildlife that surrounds the 130+ acre area.
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$20
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92%
(25)

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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Backyard Farms Off Grid Adventure

2 sites · RVs, Tents70 acres · Celina, TN
we are only the second owners of this propertyLearn more about this land:We have trails that are being cut, Dale Hollow Lake and Dam less than 1 mi away, rough woods, caves, and creeks to explore. This exploration is for the adventurer.
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$15
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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.

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