Camping near Nashville with campfires
Find an abundance of uncrowded state parks just beyond the Music City lights.
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Camping near Nashville with campfires guide
Overview
Downtown Nashville has long been regarded as the land of bachelorette parties and the Grand Ole Opry. But look a little closer and you’ll see the plethora of camping destinations located just a stone’s throw away from the city center, including state parks with wildlife viewing, vast reservoirs, and wooded trails. The lush greenery around Nashville also provides camping enthusiasts with the chance to get away from crowds and experience the joy of central Tennessee’s wilderness.
Where to go
Edgar Evins State Park
This Tennessee park has everything you need in a camping destination, from lush wooded trails to a beautiful reservoir. Center Hill Lake has options for boating and fishing, and the scenic water can be enjoyed from the hikes that wrap around it. You can reserve one of the 60 campsites, which are elevated on wooden platforms. This park is about an hour and fifteen minutes from Nashville, and it’s also a great place to view wildlife, including bald eagles, hawks, and other local species.
Three Cedars of Lebanon State Park
Named after its stunning cedar forest, Three Cedars of Lebanon is a wooded park under an hour’s drive from downtown. Here, hikers will find unique features to explore, including rock gardens, sinkholes, creeks, butterfly gardens, rare plants, and more. RV and tent campers here have access to grills, bathhouses with flush toilets, electrical hookups, and even heated showers. This is also a dog-friendly park, though dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
Bledsoe Creek State Park
With over six miles of hiking trails, 57 primitive campsites, and a wide creek to enjoy, this recreation area is about a forty-five minute drive from Nashville in the nearby town of Gallatin. Take note that swimming isn’t allowed here, but know that you can rent paddle boards or kayaks directly from the park. Another option is to simply sit back and enjoy the birds that migrate through the area. There are three ADA compliant campsites and a wheelchair-accessible path.
When to go
Summer is a great time to visit Nashville, as you’ll get the warm weather and can take advantage of all the best swimming and boating activities. However, fall is also a great time to enjoy the changing leaves, and spring can be a nice time to enjoy blooming flowers and smaller crowds. The winter can be a nice time to visit if you’re planning on staying in an RV with hookups, or in a cabin where you can enjoy creature comforts, as it can snow in Nashville (though you won’t see heavy pileup).
Know before you go
- Unlike other US state parks, Tennessee doesn’t charge an entrance fee for its state parks.
- State park camping usually requires reservations and may cost a fee.