100% (148) • 12 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Pelham
The Ponderosa
1. The Ponderosa
100%
(95)
25mi from Pelham · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
MountainView Trailside Camping
2. MountainView Trailside Camping
100%
(105)
35mi from Pelham · 1 site · Tent, RV
Tucked away in a peaceful outdoor setting, this private campground site is perfect for campers who want comfort with their adventure. You’ll have one spacious site ideal for a tent or RV, with full hookups including electric, water, and sewer—so you can settle in easily and enjoy your stay.
The water connection is RV-friendly, making it simple to hook up and keep everything running smoothly during your trip. Whether you’re passing through for a night or staying a little longer, this spot offers a convenient, no-fuss setup in a relaxed camping atmosphere. Set on 16 private acres bordering the Big Bone Cave Nature Area, this campsite offers a quiet, wooded getaway with a true “back-to-nature” feel. Getting here is easy too—the road access is straightforward, making it convenient for RVs and travelers to pull in and settle quickly. The site is self-serve: just book your stay, arrive, and set up—no check-in or sign-in needed. Here are solid, guest-friendly things to do in Rock Island, Tennessee and nearby (based on what’s typically available in the area—since I can’t browse live hours/closures right now, guests should double-check current details before they go):
In Rock Island State Park
• See the waterfalls & overlooks (easy-to-moderate walks, great photos)
• Hiking trails through wooded areas and rocky bluffs
• Picnic areas and scenic spots to relax
• Swimming holes / wading areas when conditions are safe (seasonal + weather dependent)
• Fishing (license rules apply)
Nature and caves nearby
• Big Bone Cave Nature Area (great for a quiet nature outing; access/tours can be limited—some cave areas are protected)
• Cumberland Caverns (popular guided cave tours not far away)
• Great for stargazing—the area gets nice dark skies away from town lights
Easy day trips (great “while you’re here” options)
• Fall Creek Falls State Park (waterfalls, trails, overlooks; a top TN destination)
• Burgess Falls State Park (shorter hike with big payoff views)
• Caney Fork Gorge / scenic drives (pretty viewpoints and photo stops)
Towns, food, and local exploring
• McMinnville: local restaurants, stores, and a cute small-town downtown feel
• Spencer: quick essentials, small local spots
• Cookeville (a bit farther): more shopping, chain restaurants,
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$45
/ night
Stonewall Acres Retreat
3. Stonewall Acres Retreat
39mi from Pelham · 1 site
Serene Creekside Glamping
A Magical “must-see” in Tennessee!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$120
/ night
Tims Ford State Park
4. Tims Ford State Park
100%
(5)
State park 23mi from Pelham · 72 sites
Aquatic activities are the main draw at this Tennessee park.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Cloudland Canyon State Park
5. Cloudland Canyon State Park
94%
(32)
State park 41mi from Pelham · 36 sites
Explore a waterfall-strewn canyon and sweeping views of the Appalachians in one day.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Clearwater Cove RV Resort
6. Clearwater Cove RV Resort
25mi from Pelham
Clearwater Cove RV Resort stands out as a unique campground in the heart of Middle Tennessee, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern conveniences. This exceptional destination caters to all types of campers, whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway.
Nestled along the shores of Tim Ford's Lake, Clearwater Cove features spacious campsites that provide ample privacy and stunning views. Guests can take advantage of a modern boat ramp, pristine bathhouses, and a refreshing in-ground swimming pool. For those traveling with pets, the resort includes a dedicated bark park, ensuring that your furry friends can enjoy the outdoors too. Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the park.
In addition to its fantastic amenities, Clearwater Cove RV Resort is conveniently located near popular attractions. Explore the lush landscapes of Harvey's Garden, tour the renowned Jack Daniel's Distillery, or catch a thrilling race at Winchester Speedway. With so much to see and do, Clearwater Cove RV Resort is the ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Winchester, TN.
Center Hill Lake
7. Center Hill Lake
86%
(7)
Park 43mi from Pelham · 226 sites
Just 65 miles outside of Nashville lies an outdoor recreation wonderland, with more opportunities to have some fun in the sun than Elvis could shake his leg at. Choose between one of the many campsites or cabins in the area to make a homebase. Then hop on a boat or canoe and your worries will float away as you drift on the beautiful blue waters of Center Hill Lake surrounded by the rolling Tennessee hills. Or, take a hike through the Burgess Falls State Natural Area and let the abundant forests, wildlife, and flowing water rejuvenate you. Feeling crafty? For something different, check out the nationally renowned Appalachian Center for Crafts which has professional programs and exhibits. With a little less conversation and a little more action, you can be on your way to a mighty fine getaway in no time.
100% (148) • 12 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Pelham
The Ponderosa
1. The Ponderosa
100%
(95)
25mi from Pelham · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
MountainView Trailside Camping
2. MountainView Trailside Camping
100%
(105)
35mi from Pelham · 1 site · Tent, RV
Tucked away in a peaceful outdoor setting, this private campground site is perfect for campers who want comfort with their adventure. You’ll have one spacious site ideal for a tent or RV, with full hookups including electric, water, and sewer—so you can settle in easily and enjoy your stay.
The water connection is RV-friendly, making it simple to hook up and keep everything running smoothly during your trip. Whether you’re passing through for a night or staying a little longer, this spot offers a convenient, no-fuss setup in a relaxed camping atmosphere. Set on 16 private acres bordering the Big Bone Cave Nature Area, this campsite offers a quiet, wooded getaway with a true “back-to-nature” feel. Getting here is easy too—the road access is straightforward, making it convenient for RVs and travelers to pull in and settle quickly. The site is self-serve: just book your stay, arrive, and set up—no check-in or sign-in needed. Here are solid, guest-friendly things to do in Rock Island, Tennessee and nearby (based on what’s typically available in the area—since I can’t browse live hours/closures right now, guests should double-check current details before they go):
In Rock Island State Park
• See the waterfalls & overlooks (easy-to-moderate walks, great photos)
• Hiking trails through wooded areas and rocky bluffs
• Picnic areas and scenic spots to relax
• Swimming holes / wading areas when conditions are safe (seasonal + weather dependent)
• Fishing (license rules apply)
Nature and caves nearby
• Big Bone Cave Nature Area (great for a quiet nature outing; access/tours can be limited—some cave areas are protected)
• Cumberland Caverns (popular guided cave tours not far away)
• Great for stargazing—the area gets nice dark skies away from town lights
Easy day trips (great “while you’re here” options)
• Fall Creek Falls State Park (waterfalls, trails, overlooks; a top TN destination)
• Burgess Falls State Park (shorter hike with big payoff views)
• Caney Fork Gorge / scenic drives (pretty viewpoints and photo stops)
Towns, food, and local exploring
• McMinnville: local restaurants, stores, and a cute small-town downtown feel
• Spencer: quick essentials, small local spots
• Cookeville (a bit farther): more shopping, chain restaurants,
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$45
/ night
Stonewall Acres Retreat
3. Stonewall Acres Retreat
39mi from Pelham · 1 site
Serene Creekside Glamping
A Magical “must-see” in Tennessee!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$120
/ night
Tims Ford State Park
4. Tims Ford State Park
100%
(5)
State park 23mi from Pelham · 72 sites
Aquatic activities are the main draw at this Tennessee park.
Toilets
Campfires
Showers
Cloudland Canyon State Park
5. Cloudland Canyon State Park
94%
(32)
State park 41mi from Pelham · 36 sites
Explore a waterfall-strewn canyon and sweeping views of the Appalachians in one day.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Clearwater Cove RV Resort
6. Clearwater Cove RV Resort
25mi from Pelham
Clearwater Cove RV Resort stands out as a unique campground in the heart of Middle Tennessee, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern conveniences. This exceptional destination caters to all types of campers, whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway.
Nestled along the shores of Tim Ford's Lake, Clearwater Cove features spacious campsites that provide ample privacy and stunning views. Guests can take advantage of a modern boat ramp, pristine bathhouses, and a refreshing in-ground swimming pool. For those traveling with pets, the resort includes a dedicated bark park, ensuring that your furry friends can enjoy the outdoors too. Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the park.
In addition to its fantastic amenities, Clearwater Cove RV Resort is conveniently located near popular attractions. Explore the lush landscapes of Harvey's Garden, tour the renowned Jack Daniel's Distillery, or catch a thrilling race at Winchester Speedway. With so much to see and do, Clearwater Cove RV Resort is the ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Winchester, TN.
Center Hill Lake
7. Center Hill Lake
86%
(7)
Park 43mi from Pelham · 226 sites
Just 65 miles outside of Nashville lies an outdoor recreation wonderland, with more opportunities to have some fun in the sun than Elvis could shake his leg at. Choose between one of the many campsites or cabins in the area to make a homebase. Then hop on a boat or canoe and your worries will float away as you drift on the beautiful blue waters of Center Hill Lake surrounded by the rolling Tennessee hills. Or, take a hike through the Burgess Falls State Natural Area and let the abundant forests, wildlife, and flowing water rejuvenate you. Feeling crafty? For something different, check out the nationally renowned Appalachian Center for Crafts which has professional programs and exhibits. With a little less conversation and a little more action, you can be on your way to a mighty fine getaway in no time.
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
C
Courtney
November 2025
Tent
With pets
What an amazing spot! Everything exceeded expectations, will definitely be back! Communication was fast and clear and everything was clean and well kept!
See more
Cassie
October 2025
23 ft travel trailer
With pets
Melissa’s land is a slice of paradise! The campsite had many options for entertainment including many chairs, a grill, a large fire pit, two hammocks and more! The host was very welcoming and the view was out-of-this-world gorgeous.
My only complaint is that we couldn’t stay longer!
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Veronica
October 2025
23 ft travel trailer
With pets
Stunning, beautiful, amazing don't even describe the view here! Its a wide open area with a fire pit in the idle of Adirondack chairs. If we're ever in the area again, we WILL stay here! 10/10
See more
R
Robert
October 2025
21 ft travel trailer
With pets
This is one of those places that has that rare combination of easy access, privacy, a stunning view and hookups so you don’t have to boondock. Not only that, you can set up your rig just about anywhere on the site depending on your needs or preferences and the lengths of your hoses and power cable. There are two metal fire rings, with one well suited for cooking if that’s what you’re in to. Around the other fire ring are six, comfortable Adirondack style chairs. Two hammocks were set up nearby. There is an outhouse on the western edge of the site. We didn’t need to use it, but I checked it out and it is clean and well kept. Don’t be afraid to use it if you need to. There’s also a spiral bound notebook and pen so you can enter comments and read what others have said if you want. You can gather firewood on site, but I’d really recommend you bring your own, either locally sourced or kiln dried so invasive pests aren’t inadvertently brought to the site. The water pressure on the site was a bit low, (~ 20psi) so we chose to fill our fresh water tank and use our rig’s pump for better pressure. Melissa is a great host and obviously takes pride in maintaining her site. I’d 100% recommend this little slice of paradise for anyone wanting to escape the crowds, find solitude, enjoy dark skies and the sounds of crickets at night, and all without having to navigate bumpy dirt roads. Oh… one other thing. Bigfoot saw me but nobody believed him.
See moreB
Brandon
October 2025
Weekend Trip to MountainView Trailside Camp Spot
Stunning views, peaceful area, well equipped site all made for a perfect getaway weekend!
See more
a
april
September 2025
Weekend Trip to MountainView Trailside Camping
We recently stayed 4 days at this campsite. The location was peaceful with stunning views of the mountains. The site was very clean and well kept. It also made a great base camp for exploring nearby attractions. It’s just a short drive to Twin Falls and not far from Fall Creek Falls, which were both absolutely amazing and worth the trip. And just a short walk to Bone Cave Trail. The only downside was the overwhelming number of stink bugs around the campsite and even inside, which made relaxing a bit difficult. Overall, the area is beautiful, but be prepared for the bugs. This is probably a seasonal issue and definitely nothing to do with the property at all. But not to worry a ton of them traveled all the way back to Alabama with us just in case we hadn’t had enough there. I would definitely recommend this site for anyone wanting to get away and enjoy nature!
See moreP
Phillip
September 2025
Tent
With kids
My first time to use Hipcamp. I typically stay in back country sites but wanted to do a trip with family and was incredibly impressed with the site. It is close to Rock Island State Park and is spacious with terrific views. You have the site all to yourself and it includes water, power, hammocks and a fire pit as well as an outhouse. I highly recommend it, a great experience.
See morek
kendra
September 2025
20 ft Class B
With pets
This is a spacious and well kept campsite with beautiful views! I booked short notice after I had no confirmation from original plans(not Hipcamp) Melissa responded quickly! Such a great find! Great communication and very welcoming. My dog was sad to leave.
See moreJ
John
September 2025
18 ft travel trailer
With kids
Our second time back to Melissa's property. Absolutely amazing views and privacy, and Melissa is great to work with. We will be back!
See moreK
Kim
September 2025
21 ft campervan
With pets
Spacious, quiet. Hiking trails, the view is a must see. It really has everything you could want.
See more
A
Anne
September 2025
16 ft car
Phenomenal hosts! I was super comfortable there by myself. Lovely property and very kind hosts. I would love to return and Highly Recommend!
See more
M
Melanie
August 2025
Tent
With kids
Jan’s camping spot was nice. We enjoyed the stay.
We did a little hike nearby and loved the lake, the horses, the monkeys. Will comeback!
See more
J
Jenn
August 2025
Tent
With kids
We have stayed here multiple times and the hospitality and kindness is always a staple. We have been welcomed with smiles each visit. Nice level tent spots, fire rings with wood provided and coffee in the morning.
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A
Ashley
August 2025
Tent
With kids
We booked this campsite last minute for a birthday, and it honestly felt like such a gift. The pictures showed a pretty view, but when we pulled in we realized we had an entire field to ourselves. The kids and our dog took off running, there was even a volleyball net waiting for us, and it felt like we’d stumbled on our own little slice of paradise.
At night we built a fire on the mountainside and watched the sky come alive. It was so quiet and peaceful- I even saw a few shooting stars. The site had everything we needed: water, electric, a grill, a firepit, and the cleanest full stock outhouse we’ve ever seen. The host and her kids delivered firewood right to us, which made it feel even more special. There is a road behind the campsite, but you really can’t see the tent from it, and in two nights we only heard maybe two cars. Just be on the look out for seed ticks after going on the trails there.
It does feel tucked away, so make sure to grab anything you need on the way in (the nearest gas station/grocery is about 20 minutes and Dollar General about 30). The bonus is that there’s so much nearby to explore. We spent a day at Fall Creek Falls and swam in the cascades for the first time -it was amazing. Rock Island is close too, though we’ll save that for next time.
This place really is a hidden gem, the kind of spot you don’t forget. We left already talking about when we’ll be back.
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George
August 2025
30 ft travel trailer
Group trip
This our #1 favorite spot! We celebrated a birthday with friends and family. The host is gracious, communicates / responds quickly and continues to make improvements. Pictures do not do the sight justice.
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J
Jenn
July 2025
Tent
We had an absolutely wonderful stay for two nights. The hospitality it top shelf. The hosts are super friendly, kind, and considerate. They truly put forth the effort for people to enjoy their stay. From petting and feeding the horses, to meeting Miss Daisy the adorable monkey, to the pool it was great. Having access to coffee in the mornings to having use of the grill it elevated the experience. We will be back for another stay. Thank Y'all
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A
Audrey
July 2025
21 ft travel trailer
Wonderful spot! The view is beautiful and the host was very gracious and responsive. We hope to be back next summer!
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Mike
June 2025
Tent
We planned a week at the camp and found everything better than expected. Normally we have to bring in our own water, which we did, but there's already potable water on site. There is an out house available also. We brought in our fishing boat to go fishing from one of the public ramps and had planned to recharge the battery for the fish finder elsewhere. Fortunately, there is already electric on site so we just recharged there. I wouldn't hesitate to camp here again.
See moreJ
John
June 2025
21 ft campervan
With kids
We loved the wide open space, the privacy and the amazing views!!!!
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K
Kelly
June 2025
Tent
With pets
Lovely piece of land with a spectacular view! My pup and I enjoyed roaming the campsite and the bone cave natural area. This was my first time tent camping with a water spigot, so that was very nice and, of course, the outhouse was great. We did see about 6-7 cars pass by- I expected less due to other reviews, but it was a Friday night, so perhaps that’s why more people were out. Overall, this was a lovely spot for a quick getaway! We throughly enjoyed our stay.
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