Ranch camping in Tennessee with campfires
Camp beside rivers, waterfalls, and the Great Smoky Mountains in a lush wonderland for outdoor fun.
85% (1075 reviews)
- Tennessee
85% (1075 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Tennessee
Dog-friendly getaways
Available this weekend
12 top ranch campgrounds in Tennessee with campfires
100%
(1003)
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.
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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Critter Camp
3 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Sevierville, TN
We are in the Heart of it all. Looking for
quiet nights
and super starry skies? This is the place.
We have
2 rescued horses and a donkey. A lynx, serval cat, sugergliders and trained rats from a movie. 6 dogs , 3 house cats
We are located exactly in the middle between Pigeon Forge, with shows and go karts or Townsend.. with the quiet side of the smokies... tubing, horseback riding, hiking, Cades Cove offers biking and car tours.
We are one mile from the foothills parkway entrance and
less than 2 miles to a Great Smoky mountains entrance.
Our sites offer toilets, potable water, wifi and trash disposal. We are pet friendly, and you are permitted to have campfires (outside of any burn ban). We offer animal encounters.
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$28
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Harmony hollow
7 sites · Tents80 acres · Sevierville, TN
Learn more about this land:Hi and thanks so much for checking out Harmony Farm . We are conveniently located minutes from Pigeon Forge TN. Home of and only 5 miles from Dollywood.
Only a short drive to the Great Smoky Mountains national park . There are too many local attractions to list from horseback riding to shopping outlet malls .
Free firewood at every site upon your arrival.
There is a composting potty in the barn area that has been upgraded recently as well as potable water .
We are accepting tents, trucks with campers, vans and pop up campers welcomed also .
We do have sites set up for you or you may prefer to pack your gear out to create your own site in a more secluded areas of the farm .
There are many private areas along the creekside for your primitive camp on our 60 acre horse farm.
Hike to the back of the farm to watch a sunset over the horse field or down by the stream . Lots of wildlife and scenery at the farm . Laundromat and food venues just minutes away.
you can still feel off grid with just a short stroll by the stream that babbles along throughout the 60 acres you will be able to make your playground while visiting the Harmony Farm. Come stay with us as we grow our hip community. Thanks so much for your support.
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Twin Valley Horse Ranch
5 sites · Lodging100 acres · Walland, TN
My late husband and myself bought the property in 1983 and it was all just overgrown land!We worked, cleared, built horse shelters/barns, cabins, cut trails, built the outdoor chapel for our wedding and of course fenced it all in for the horses! Started sharing with guests in 1993, so we have met so many amazing folks from all over the world! Pass thru our gate into another world and leave all your worries and tensions behind. We are all about getting back to what is real -- nature, animals/horses and each other. Complete privacy!There are many mountain trails leaving right from our property! Lots to explore. You can even hike to the outdoor chapel with the pretty view of the Chilhowee Mountain range. It is a short hike to the barn area for those who want to spend time rubbing the pot belly pigs' tummy, walk the mini horses, groom the love bug~Junebug (donkey), pet horses, cuddle with bunnies and feed chickens! Every morning and night we set a time for all those who want to become involved with the care/feeding of petting animals and horses!
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Sacred Dog Ranch
7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres · 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!
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Howland's Hideout
1 site · RV, Tent2 acres · Pikeville, TN
We have a small 2 acre farmette that is in progress. We have just started a 1/4 acre garden, and plan on having 12-15 chickens soon.
Our family includes 4 cats and 2 dogs.
We are about 3 miles from Falls Creek Falls State park. It has a 250 foot waterfall, miles of hiking trails.
We have several spots for dry camping and several with 15 amp electric and water.
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The Bluffs At Tumbling Creek
1 site · RV, Tent9 acres · Hurricane Mills, TN
Welcome to Tumbling Creek Bluffs Private Campground! Nestled in the serene landscape of Tennessee, our campground offers a complete RV hookup with water, electricity, and sewage facilities. Set against the backdrop of the majestic bluffs of Tumbling Creek, guests can indulge in fishing, swimming, and leisurely moments by the water's edge at our secluded campground.
Our covered deck provides an ideal spot for family meals, and with campfires under the stars, there are endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Tumbling Creek Bluffs Campground invites you to savor the best of nature and relaxation in one unforgettable setting, all while enjoying complete privacy.
While in the area, guests can explore the nearby historic ranch of Loretta Lynn, offering tours of Loretta Lynn's Plantation Home, visits to the museum, and much more. Discover the charm of Tumbling Creek Bluffs and create lasting memories in the heart of nature.
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Alpaca Farm and Forested Area
7 sites · Tents26 acres · Bolivar, TN
The Dancing Bee Farm specializes in alpacas and bees on 26 acres in West Tennesssee. Property contains wooded areas, a pond, and opportunities to learn about farming alpacas and other animals that live there. The farm also grows native plants, some herbs and fruits, and specializes in using and teaching about foraging for wild plants. Located an hour and 15 minutes east of Memphis. 50 minute drive to Pinson Mounds State Archeological Park.
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$25
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Camping Off The Grid -Barbour Farms
2 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Woodlawn, TN
Barbour Farms Camp sets on the hallowed grounds of the historic Ol' Ledford Farm. Our Great-Great grandparents, Jim and Mary Ledford, purchased this farm in the early 1870s.
At an additional cost you may request a guided tour of: "A Day in the Life of Jim & Mary Ledford."
See were the historic Montgomery Co. Griffey School once set on property.
View Jim and Mary's Ol' house seat and drink from the artesian spring where they got their water in the 1870's.
Jim and Mary were quite industrious, along with their seven children.
Picture their mule drawn wagon, sawmill, sorghum mill, and grist mill.
Once upon a time, their family provided these services and many others to the community.
Go to The Ol' Ledford Farm aka Barbour Farms on Facebook to learn more, and don't forget to follow us.
So, totally unplug and enjoy a rustic back-country experience. All campers are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles.
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Ohana Ranches
1 site · RV, Tent50 acres · Spencer, TN
Beautiful 50 acres with open space for camping, forest for nature walks, natural creek with running water, and several state parks within minutes from property.
It’s not uncommon to see Turkey, Deer and other wildlife on the property. There is no hunting on the property.
Common area for campfires and large open space to set up tents, games and other activities.
Currently, only self-contained campers and RV allowed. Dry camping for the true outdoor adventurous.
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$45
/ night
Sky High Paradise
2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Damascus, VA
Less than one mile from Virginia Creek Trail and Appalachian trail
Wooded tent camping sites with long range views
Flat Gravel site for RV's, Vans, and car camping
Located on a scenic ridge in the peaceful family friendly community of Taylors Valley, VA. You are also located 11 minutes from the heart of Damascus, VA (trail city USA).
Area Attractions:
-Campsite is less than one mile away from the Appalachian Trail and the Virginia Creeper Trail which the area is known for.
-Rent bikes in Damascus and take a shuttle to the top of the Virginia Creeper trail and enjoy the 13 mile gradual descent down a converted railroad line through some of the most beautiful scenery Southwest VA has to offer.
-40 minutes from Grayson Highland State park (hike among wild ponies)
-40 minute drive to the summit of Whitetop Mountain (2nd highest peak in VA) Amazing Views!
About the sites:
There is a large parking area right off main road for easy access. Those with vans and RVs can set up right on the gravel parking area (also an option to tent camp right beside the parking area and enjoy the open sky and long range views. Campers who are willing to walk up a somewhat steep him can tent camp in the beautiful hilltop tent camping site which is located in a grove of pine trees.
This is a new Hip Camp listing and sites are privative for now. Enjoy unplugging as you camp because there is No Cell Phone reception here. There is WIFI at the neighborhood restaurant, Hellbender's Café just 4 minutes away (typically open from 11-5pm) during the warmer months. While there is no electricity (or hookups for RVs), there are very few street lights in the area which makes for amazing stargazing. The only source of water is from a temperate stream that runs along the back side of the property for those campers who are comfortable boiling or treating their water.
The property is 5.3 acres total, part of it is open former pasture land and over 1/2 of the property is forest. There is a wooden hill top area that is great for tent campers. The back side of the property is steep in some places, but it can be fun for those who want to hike and explore the mountainside.
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The Garden
5 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Lafayette, TN
The purpose of “The Land” is to be available as a space for families and people to work, prosper together in a flexible environment, engage in projects that include or coincide with sustainable organic farming methods, and most importantly, helping other's. We wish to work with all like minded people in an atmosphere of equality which encourages environmental stewardship, low-impact living that is fun but also family friendly, and adheres to a positive ethic that acknowledges the value of our neighbors and our community as a whole.
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$10
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Star Hosts in Tennessee
Under $50
Ranch camping in Tennessee with campfires guide
Overview
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.
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 States, Great 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.
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