The best cabins in Tennessee with hot tubs

·

The geology of the Volunteer State is surprisingly dramatic. The landscape soars from the delta lowlands of the Mississippi River east to the rugged heights of the Cumberland Plateau before climbing the forested slopes of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The varied terrain is well-suited for active campers, from paddlers and rock climbers to fishers and firefly hunters. And hikers? They’re happy everywhere. Tent and RV sites are abundant, and a growing array of glamping options—yurts, retro trailers, and treehouses—keep the camping scene fresh. And in music-loving Tennessee, a live jam is never far away, be it blues, bluegrass, or Bonnaroo.

100% (193) 12 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Tennessee

Sacred Dog Ranch

1. Sacred Dog Ranch

99%
(162)
8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Fairview, TN
Our sanctuary is a special piece of history and a regenerative farm where living soil and pollinator banks combat climate change and revive the eco-system ! The cabin we live in was built in 1797 - which we have preserved and upgraded with fantastic antique decor, Rock N Roll flare and cutting edge street art. We encourage art, music and nature crafting! We take great pride in providing a magical creative space that is welcome to earthlings of all stripes! The June blooms are exceptional and the butterflies’ will delight... you will leave a little piece of your heart here on the farm❤️🐝🐶🧚‍♀️ Horse Back Riding available!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
Grandview Camp @ Lemon Lane Farm

2. Grandview Camp @ Lemon Lane Farm

100%
(71)
6 sites · Lodging · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$100
 / night
The Private Reserve Cabin + RV Pad

3. The Private Reserve Cabin + RV Pad

98%
(28)
2 sites · Lodging · Tracy City, TN
New to HipCamp? Use this code for $10 off your stay with us: https://www.hipcamp.com/i/elisabethc3462c9 **HIGHLIGHTS** OUTDOORSY LOCATION - Paved roads all the way to the cabin - 3 Mins → Grundy Lakes at South Cumberland State Park - 4 Mins → downtown Tracy City - 10 Mins → Fiery Gizzard Trail - 15 Mins → The Caverns (Caves and Music Venue) - 45 Mins → Chattanooga - 50 Mins → McMinnville & the Cumberland Caverns - Guidebook with nearby recommendations provided WELCOMING ENTRY - Driveway gate, can be locked for added security - Lighted and covered entryway - Smart lock for convenient and secure access - Local guidebook with recommendations provided STOCKED MAIN LEVEL (no stairs required) - Kitchen: cooking & dining essentials: stainless steel appliances, countertop dishwasher, Keurig coffee maker - Living Room: Queen-sized pull-out sleeper sofa, reclining/rocking armchair (a second armchair is available in the entryway for additional seating), smart TV - Entry/Mudroom: ideal for leaving shoes and hanging jackets - Laundry: stacked washer and dryer - Bathroom: full bathroom with walk-in shower COZY LOFT (separated with a door for privacy) - Bedroom: queen sized bed, small dresser, and smart TV SOAK IN THE OUTDOORS - Hot tub deck with inflatable hot tub and Adirondack chairs - Covered front porch with swing and rocking chair - Large fire pit - Rocking bench and circular picnic table - Roped-off meditation area with Adirondack chairs (yoga mats provided inside) - 8 acres of nature, surrounded by trees and natural rock formations FAMILY FRIENDLY - Waterproof mattress and pillow covers on in all bedrooms - TVs in all sleeping areas - Blackout window treatments - Full sized laundry PETS LOVE IT TOO - Extra cleaning & sanitation provided - Pet essentials: Poop bags and enzymatic spray RV PAD AVAILABLE AS WELL - Gravel pad: 82” (6.83’) wide x 528” (44’) long - 50ft+ of driveway/gravel clearance for maneuvering - FULL hookups: grey/black water dump, potable water via city hose connection, 30amp electric outlet, and 4 outdoor outlets (please bring 20ft hoses and extension cord to ensure access) - WiFi - trash cans - small deck https://www.hipcamp.com/en-US/land/tennessee-rv-pad-w-wifi-full-hookups-deck-r57h5qjd?
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$80
 / night
Spirit Valley, Private Horse Farm

4. Spirit Valley, Private Horse Farm

1 site · Lodging · Dowelltown, TN
Escape to Spirit Valley Quilt House, a peaceful wood lodge that sleeps 10 in the heart of a quiet Tennessee valley. Enjoy private access to a creek and waterfall, meet our friendly farm animals, and soak in stunning views. Perfect for family getaways, wellness retreats, or adventurous weekends, this cozy lodge blends rustic charm with unforgettable experiences. It’s just 15 minutes from Smithville, 20 minutes from Center Hill Lake, and 1 hour from Nashville.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$168
 / night
Dead / Phish Pharm Camp

5. Dead / Phish Pharm Camp

100%
(2)
20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Fairview, TN
1500 acres of pristine forest, meadow, and creek with many places for camping in conjunction with renting a small room. Perfect place for spending time with friends and phamily before and after nearby concerts ! Fall Phish Tour Camping Oct 4 - 10 We are organizing shuttle buses to pick up from airport to bring to the Phish Pharm Camp. Buses from Pharm to Concert (Bridgestone Arena) will pick up 4 and 2 hours before play-time, and return twice each evening. Bus tickets must be purchased in advance. Showers and toilets are located close by, next to, or within your rented room. Multiple sites to put tents and/or camping vehicles. Phishhead Pharm is located 20 miles from Nashville from and 8 miles from Franklin. Bridgestone Arena is located 30 miles (40 minutes) away.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Hoot Owl Retreat

6. Hoot Owl Retreat

1 site · Lodging · Gatlinburg, TN
The property consists of a studio log cabin with a private hot tub in Mountain Shadows Resort--a beautiful log cabin community just minutes from downtown Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The resort features two shared swimming pools available May to October.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
$140
 / night
Paradise at the Smokies Cabin

7. Paradise at the Smokies Cabin

2 sites · Lodging · Sevierville, TN
Keep it simple at this peaceful and centrally-located 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms cabin in half acre land (Sleep up to 8 people). It is away from the hustle and bustle and yet close to all the activities and fun that Pigeon Forge has to offer. All its inside was just renovated. Want to stay home? enjoy its gas fire pit, gas fire place, high speed internet, Smart TV, and charcoal BBQ. Want to enjoy Tennesse? less than 3 miles from the center of Pigeon Forge and less than 12 miles from Gatlinburg. Conveniently located close to Publix.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$180
 / night
Lazy Bear Ranch PFTN

8. Lazy Bear Ranch PFTN

2 sites · Lodging · Sevierville, TN
Welcome to Lazy Bear Ranch, where your ultimate Smoky Mountain vacation dreams come true! Nestled in a serene and secluded location, this magnificent vacation rental offers a spacious one-level home with four bedrooms and three baths, ensuring ample space and comfort for your entire family. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The Lazy Bear Ranch boasts a game room, complete with an arcade game, providing endless hours of entertainment for both kids and adults alike. After an exciting day exploring the nearby attractions of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, unwind in the soothing waters of the jacuzzi, letting the stress melt away. For those who love outdoor gatherings, the Lazy Bear Ranch offers an outdoor grill and dining area, perfect for hosting memorable barbecues with your loved ones against the backdrop of breathtaking mountain views. The absence of immediate neighbors ensures undivided tranquility, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you. The Lazy Bear Ranch is conveniently located just minutes away from the parkway, granting you easy access to the vibrant attractions of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Whether you're seeking thrilling adventures, exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, or indulging in the local cuisine and entertainment, you'll find it all within reach. With its abundance of amenities and prime location, the beautiful Lazy Bear Ranch has everything your family could desire for the perfect Smoky Mountain vacation. Book your stay now and create lifelong memories in this enchanting retreat.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$262
 / night
Smoky Mountain Log Cabin

9. Smoky Mountain Log Cabin

1 site · Lodging · Pigeon Forge, TN
Enjoy the PEACEFUL & COZY WEATHER at our peaceful cabin!! Our mountain property is only a 15-MIN (5-mile) drive to the Parkway and top attractions without the steep roads. Laurel’s Gem is a quaint log cabin with private hot tub. Come experience the solitude you've been looking for while being close to all the fun Smokies action! Have an amazing dinner on the patio deck or take a dip in the hot tub. Look no further for your PEACEFUL ESCAPE in the Smoky Mountains The space You’ll have access to all of the following amenities in our log cabin: -TWO BEDROOMS with queen sized beds, dresser, closet with hangers, iron and ironing board, hot tub towels, and bath towels -ONE FULL BATHROOM with makeup wipes, wash cloths, hair dryer, and complimentary shower supplies -KITCHEN is fully equipped with essential appliances, cooking utensils, wine opener, spices, cooking oil, complimentary coffee, and more -LIVING ROOM has 55 in. TV with Dish cable & DVD player -LAUNDRY appliances in the cabin -PATIO is private with hot tub and outdoor dining table -WIFI INTERNET is satellite and tends to be slow (Cabin is perfect for guests looking to unplug and relax) -DISH CABLE on all three TVs with access to 190+ channels -DVD PLAYER with 30+ movies from our personal library -BOARD/CARD GAMES available for kids and adults -OUTDOOR AMENITIES include Cornhole and Ladder Toss games along with a wooden gazebo and outdoor furniture to relax in -BBQ / CHARCOAL GRILL includes some grilling utensils available in kitchen; we typically have some charcoal left over (but BYOCharcoal if you intend to bbq a lot) Guest access Entire space and amenities are included in the booking. Self check-in can be done using the Smart Lock and your unique door code, which will be sent to you prior to your arrival. Please make yourself at home. Host will provide a prompt response to any check-in questions, as needed. Other things to note -CELL SIGNAL is spotty in the mountains. Be sure to unplug and enjoy the cabin’s solitude before you have to plug back into the real world -MOUNTAIN ROADS (as expected) in the Smokies have some incline/decline but are safe. Roads closer to cabin are flat, fully-paved and narrow in certain areas but are also safe and not busy -DRIVEWAY to cabin from main road is narro
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
$250
 / night
Rocky Top Campground & RV Park

10. Rocky Top Campground & RV Park

48 sites · Blountville, TN
Rocky Top Campground stands out as a serene retreat that perfectly blends natural beauty with convenient access to local attractions. Located just 1.2 miles from the Interstate, this 12-acre campground is predominantly wooded, featuring mature shade trees that create a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation. Guests can enjoy the tranquility of the campground while being close to some of Tennessee's most exciting destinations. Just a short drive away, you’ll find the renowned Bristol Motor Speedway, known as the world's fastest half-mile track, as well as the Thunder Valley Drag Way, perfect for motorsport enthusiasts. Rocky Top Campground is designed for adults aged 18 and older, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a quiet getaway. Experience the charm of Tennessee's landscape while enjoying the privacy and comfort that this campground offers. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or explore nearby attractions, Rocky Top Campground is the perfect choice for your next adventure.

The geology of the Volunteer State is surprisingly dramatic. The landscape soars from the delta lowlands of the Mississippi River east to the rugged heights of the Cumberland Plateau before climbing the forested slopes of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The varied terrain is well-suited for active campers, from paddlers and rock climbers to fishers and firefly hunters. And hikers? They’re happy everywhere. Tent and RV sites are abundant, and a growing array of glamping options—yurts, retro trailers, and treehouses—keep the camping scene fresh. And in music-loving Tennessee, a live jam is never far away, be it blues, bluegrass, or Bonnaroo.

100% (193) 12 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Tennessee

Sacred Dog Ranch

1. Sacred Dog Ranch

99%
(162)
8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Fairview, TN
Our sanctuary is a special piece of history and a regenerative farm where living soil and pollinator banks combat climate change and revive the eco-system ! The cabin we live in was built in 1797 - which we have preserved and upgraded with fantastic antique decor, Rock N Roll flare and cutting edge street art. We encourage art, music and nature crafting! We take great pride in providing a magical creative space that is welcome to earthlings of all stripes! The June blooms are exceptional and the butterflies’ will delight... you will leave a little piece of your heart here on the farm❤️🐝🐶🧚‍♀️ Horse Back Riding available!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
Grandview Camp @ Lemon Lane Farm

2. Grandview Camp @ Lemon Lane Farm

100%
(71)
6 sites · Lodging · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$100
 / night
The Private Reserve Cabin + RV Pad

3. The Private Reserve Cabin + RV Pad

98%
(28)
2 sites · Lodging · Tracy City, TN
New to HipCamp? Use this code for $10 off your stay with us: https://www.hipcamp.com/i/elisabethc3462c9 **HIGHLIGHTS** OUTDOORSY LOCATION - Paved roads all the way to the cabin - 3 Mins → Grundy Lakes at South Cumberland State Park - 4 Mins → downtown Tracy City - 10 Mins → Fiery Gizzard Trail - 15 Mins → The Caverns (Caves and Music Venue) - 45 Mins → Chattanooga - 50 Mins → McMinnville & the Cumberland Caverns - Guidebook with nearby recommendations provided WELCOMING ENTRY - Driveway gate, can be locked for added security - Lighted and covered entryway - Smart lock for convenient and secure access - Local guidebook with recommendations provided STOCKED MAIN LEVEL (no stairs required) - Kitchen: cooking & dining essentials: stainless steel appliances, countertop dishwasher, Keurig coffee maker - Living Room: Queen-sized pull-out sleeper sofa, reclining/rocking armchair (a second armchair is available in the entryway for additional seating), smart TV - Entry/Mudroom: ideal for leaving shoes and hanging jackets - Laundry: stacked washer and dryer - Bathroom: full bathroom with walk-in shower COZY LOFT (separated with a door for privacy) - Bedroom: queen sized bed, small dresser, and smart TV SOAK IN THE OUTDOORS - Hot tub deck with inflatable hot tub and Adirondack chairs - Covered front porch with swing and rocking chair - Large fire pit - Rocking bench and circular picnic table - Roped-off meditation area with Adirondack chairs (yoga mats provided inside) - 8 acres of nature, surrounded by trees and natural rock formations FAMILY FRIENDLY - Waterproof mattress and pillow covers on in all bedrooms - TVs in all sleeping areas - Blackout window treatments - Full sized laundry PETS LOVE IT TOO - Extra cleaning & sanitation provided - Pet essentials: Poop bags and enzymatic spray RV PAD AVAILABLE AS WELL - Gravel pad: 82” (6.83’) wide x 528” (44’) long - 50ft+ of driveway/gravel clearance for maneuvering - FULL hookups: grey/black water dump, potable water via city hose connection, 30amp electric outlet, and 4 outdoor outlets (please bring 20ft hoses and extension cord to ensure access) - WiFi - trash cans - small deck https://www.hipcamp.com/en-US/land/tennessee-rv-pad-w-wifi-full-hookups-deck-r57h5qjd?
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$80
 / night
Spirit Valley, Private Horse Farm

4. Spirit Valley, Private Horse Farm

1 site · Lodging · Dowelltown, TN
Escape to Spirit Valley Quilt House, a peaceful wood lodge that sleeps 10 in the heart of a quiet Tennessee valley. Enjoy private access to a creek and waterfall, meet our friendly farm animals, and soak in stunning views. Perfect for family getaways, wellness retreats, or adventurous weekends, this cozy lodge blends rustic charm with unforgettable experiences. It’s just 15 minutes from Smithville, 20 minutes from Center Hill Lake, and 1 hour from Nashville.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$168
 / night
Dead / Phish Pharm Camp

5. Dead / Phish Pharm Camp

100%
(2)
20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Fairview, TN
1500 acres of pristine forest, meadow, and creek with many places for camping in conjunction with renting a small room. Perfect place for spending time with friends and phamily before and after nearby concerts ! Fall Phish Tour Camping Oct 4 - 10 We are organizing shuttle buses to pick up from airport to bring to the Phish Pharm Camp. Buses from Pharm to Concert (Bridgestone Arena) will pick up 4 and 2 hours before play-time, and return twice each evening. Bus tickets must be purchased in advance. Showers and toilets are located close by, next to, or within your rented room. Multiple sites to put tents and/or camping vehicles. Phishhead Pharm is located 20 miles from Nashville from and 8 miles from Franklin. Bridgestone Arena is located 30 miles (40 minutes) away.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Hoot Owl Retreat

6. Hoot Owl Retreat

1 site · Lodging · Gatlinburg, TN
The property consists of a studio log cabin with a private hot tub in Mountain Shadows Resort--a beautiful log cabin community just minutes from downtown Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The resort features two shared swimming pools available May to October.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
$140
 / night
Paradise at the Smokies Cabin

7. Paradise at the Smokies Cabin

2 sites · Lodging · Sevierville, TN
Keep it simple at this peaceful and centrally-located 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms cabin in half acre land (Sleep up to 8 people). It is away from the hustle and bustle and yet close to all the activities and fun that Pigeon Forge has to offer. All its inside was just renovated. Want to stay home? enjoy its gas fire pit, gas fire place, high speed internet, Smart TV, and charcoal BBQ. Want to enjoy Tennesse? less than 3 miles from the center of Pigeon Forge and less than 12 miles from Gatlinburg. Conveniently located close to Publix.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from 
$180
 / night
Lazy Bear Ranch PFTN

8. Lazy Bear Ranch PFTN

2 sites · Lodging · Sevierville, TN
Welcome to Lazy Bear Ranch, where your ultimate Smoky Mountain vacation dreams come true! Nestled in a serene and secluded location, this magnificent vacation rental offers a spacious one-level home with four bedrooms and three baths, ensuring ample space and comfort for your entire family. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The Lazy Bear Ranch boasts a game room, complete with an arcade game, providing endless hours of entertainment for both kids and adults alike. After an exciting day exploring the nearby attractions of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, unwind in the soothing waters of the jacuzzi, letting the stress melt away. For those who love outdoor gatherings, the Lazy Bear Ranch offers an outdoor grill and dining area, perfect for hosting memorable barbecues with your loved ones against the backdrop of breathtaking mountain views. The absence of immediate neighbors ensures undivided tranquility, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you. The Lazy Bear Ranch is conveniently located just minutes away from the parkway, granting you easy access to the vibrant attractions of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Whether you're seeking thrilling adventures, exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, or indulging in the local cuisine and entertainment, you'll find it all within reach. With its abundance of amenities and prime location, the beautiful Lazy Bear Ranch has everything your family could desire for the perfect Smoky Mountain vacation. Book your stay now and create lifelong memories in this enchanting retreat.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$262
 / night
Smoky Mountain Log Cabin

9. Smoky Mountain Log Cabin

1 site · Lodging · Pigeon Forge, TN
Enjoy the PEACEFUL & COZY WEATHER at our peaceful cabin!! Our mountain property is only a 15-MIN (5-mile) drive to the Parkway and top attractions without the steep roads. Laurel’s Gem is a quaint log cabin with private hot tub. Come experience the solitude you've been looking for while being close to all the fun Smokies action! Have an amazing dinner on the patio deck or take a dip in the hot tub. Look no further for your PEACEFUL ESCAPE in the Smoky Mountains The space You’ll have access to all of the following amenities in our log cabin: -TWO BEDROOMS with queen sized beds, dresser, closet with hangers, iron and ironing board, hot tub towels, and bath towels -ONE FULL BATHROOM with makeup wipes, wash cloths, hair dryer, and complimentary shower supplies -KITCHEN is fully equipped with essential appliances, cooking utensils, wine opener, spices, cooking oil, complimentary coffee, and more -LIVING ROOM has 55 in. TV with Dish cable & DVD player -LAUNDRY appliances in the cabin -PATIO is private with hot tub and outdoor dining table -WIFI INTERNET is satellite and tends to be slow (Cabin is perfect for guests looking to unplug and relax) -DISH CABLE on all three TVs with access to 190+ channels -DVD PLAYER with 30+ movies from our personal library -BOARD/CARD GAMES available for kids and adults -OUTDOOR AMENITIES include Cornhole and Ladder Toss games along with a wooden gazebo and outdoor furniture to relax in -BBQ / CHARCOAL GRILL includes some grilling utensils available in kitchen; we typically have some charcoal left over (but BYOCharcoal if you intend to bbq a lot) Guest access Entire space and amenities are included in the booking. Self check-in can be done using the Smart Lock and your unique door code, which will be sent to you prior to your arrival. Please make yourself at home. Host will provide a prompt response to any check-in questions, as needed. Other things to note -CELL SIGNAL is spotty in the mountains. Be sure to unplug and enjoy the cabin’s solitude before you have to plug back into the real world -MOUNTAIN ROADS (as expected) in the Smokies have some incline/decline but are safe. Roads closer to cabin are flat, fully-paved and narrow in certain areas but are also safe and not busy -DRIVEWAY to cabin from main road is narro
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from 
$250
 / night
Rocky Top Campground & RV Park

10. Rocky Top Campground & RV Park

48 sites · Blountville, TN
Rocky Top Campground stands out as a serene retreat that perfectly blends natural beauty with convenient access to local attractions. Located just 1.2 miles from the Interstate, this 12-acre campground is predominantly wooded, featuring mature shade trees that create a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation. Guests can enjoy the tranquility of the campground while being close to some of Tennessee's most exciting destinations. Just a short drive away, you’ll find the renowned Bristol Motor Speedway, known as the world's fastest half-mile track, as well as the Thunder Valley Drag Way, perfect for motorsport enthusiasts. Rocky Top Campground is designed for adults aged 18 and older, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a quiet getaway. Experience the charm of Tennessee's landscape while enjoying the privacy and comfort that this campground offers. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or explore nearby attractions, Rocky Top Campground is the perfect choice for your next adventure.

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The best cabins in Tennessee with hot tubs guide

Where to go

West Tennessee

Bordered by the Mississippi and anchored by Memphis, West Tennessee works best for campers seeking music, history, and low-key outdoor thrills. Tents and RVs are welcome at Pickwick Landing State Park, known for its lake and watersports, while birdwatchers may prefer driving north to Reelfoot Lake State Park, where bald eagles are plentiful. Shiloh National Military Park spotlights a pivotal battle in the Civil War.

Middle Tennessee

Marked by cliffs, waterfalls, wild rivers, dark skies, and lush forests, Middle Tennessee is a geologic drama queen. Packed with state parks along the steep edges of the Cumberland Plateau, it’s also a top destination for camping and active travelers. Visit Nashville, home to honky-tonks, hot chicken, and Vanderbilt, then hit Fall Creek Falls, a deep-green state park loaded with waterfalls. Stay in cabins constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in Cumberland Mountain State Park or CCC Pickett Memorial State Park—where you can go stargazing. The Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area draws adventurous paddlers, and campers can even sleep beside the 444-mile Natchez Trace Parkway, a historic trade route that stretches from the Mississippi River to Nashville.

East Tennessee

Prefer urban adventures? Knoxville and Chattanooga await. Knoxville is best known as the state capital, but mountain bikers love the city’s urban wilderness and its 50-mile network of trails. Chattanooga is a convenient base for rock climbing and whitewater rafting. The craft beer scene in both cities impresses too. For hiking and solitude head north to Frozen Head State Park. Families with varied interests may prefer Big Ridge State Park, which offers trails, lake swimming, and volleyball and basketball courts.

Great Smoky Mountains

The most visited national park in the United StatesGreat Smoky Mountains National Park sprawls across eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail bounces along the boundary line between the two states. The park has nine developed campgrounds and numerous backcountry shelters. Tent sites, RV parks, cabins, and glamping destinations punctuate the foothills region, which is anchored by Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

Top regions in and near Tennessee