The best forest campgrounds in Pickwick Lake

Thanks to the Tennessee Valley Authority and its dam-building prowess in the 1930s, vast reservoirs are scattered across the Volunteer State. Like most of them, Pickwick Lake is a hotspot for outdoor recreation, with bass fishing, boating, swimming, tubing, and water skiing among its top activities. Stretching 53 miles from southwest Tennessee across Mississippi and Alabama on the Tennessee River, Pickwick Lake’s shoreline is dotted with campsites, as is the surrounding countryside. Fun fact: A literature-loving postmaster named the area after a Charles Dickens’ novel, the Pickwick Papers, in the mid-1800s.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Pickwick Lake

Thanks to the Tennessee Valley Authority and its dam-building prowess in the 1930s, vast reservoirs are scattered across the Volunteer State. Like most of them, Pickwick Lake is a hotspot for outdoor recreation, with bass fishing, boating, swimming, tubing, and water skiing among its top activities. Stretching 53 miles from southwest Tennessee across Mississippi and Alabama on the Tennessee River, Pickwick Lake’s shoreline is dotted with campsites, as is the surrounding countryside. Fun fact: A literature-loving postmaster named the area after a Charles Dickens’ novel, the Pickwick Papers, in the mid-1800s.

84% (165)

Top-rated campgrounds near Pickwick Lake

1. HeartStone Campground

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(200)

18 sites · Tents, RVs · Waynesboro, TN

Welcome New Friends! This beautiful piece of Tennessee land is family-owned and newly developed to be shared and enjoyed with friends and family. Heartstone Campground was named after Dan and Mandy found a “Heartstone” on the property while out walking one evening by the creek. It just seemed perfect.

2. Camp Wonder Wander is Wanderful

97%

(19)

15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Waynesboro, TN

Your host Val has walked away from her life as a tenured graphic design professor for a passion that is probably her true calling. Inspired by travels and a youth immersed in girls scouts, I created this retreat center and camp for the opportunity to relish in nature, put away the phone and get back to craft, conversation, and the basics of life. You'll relish in the quiet and beauty of the rural rolling foothills of Appalachia in mid-south TN. 20 minutes from any town so prepare en route. Route 99 splits the 17 acres with retreat center on one side and an 11.5 acre campground with significant river front property On The Buffalo. This is in Lewis county - of the Lewis and Clark adventurers. The Buffalo River is a class 1 and sometimes 2 river perfect for kayaking. Ask about add on options like a tour and story about the camp and animals or even a pottery lesson or art workshop.

3. Campingallstars

92%

(6)

1 site · Tent · Hodges, AL

Camp sites located behind old Homestead from 1940s once a tobacco and cotton farm. The house on the property is in early stages of being rebuilt to be saved as a local landmark.

4. Tishomingo State Park

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(7)

69 sites · Tishomingo, Mississippi

Discover Tishomingo State Park's rugged beauty and outdoor adventures.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. J.P. Coleman State Park

100%

(2)

120 sites · Mississippi

Discover J.P. Coleman State Park's stunning vistas and outdoor fun.

Toilets

Campfires

Showers

6. Angel Acres Campground

40 sites · Tents, RVs · Hohenwald, TN

We have beautiful rolling hills, trees and two ponds. We raise sheep and chickens and a huge organic garden for our customers to use. We have twenty acres of land all fenced in. Located one mile from the buffalo rive. We provide use of our kayaks and a ride if needed. We are a few miles from the Natchez Trace. And laurel hill lake.

7. Seven Pines River Resort

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27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Waynesboro, TN

Nestled along the serene Buffalo River, Seven Pines River Resort offers the ideal escape to nature. Whether you're camping under the stars, enjoying the comfort of a geodome, or relaxing by the river, our resort provides a variety of accommodations for every type of camper. Tent Camping: Choose from our scenic spots at Field of Dreams, River View, or River's Edge North. Perfect for families, these sites offer an authentic camping experience with easy access to the river and nearby trails. RV Camping: Our Field of Dreams area welcomes RVs up to 24 feet, with room for dry-docking and welcomed to bring generators. Experience the beauty of the outdoors with all the comforts of home. Geodomes: For a unique glamping experience, our adults-only geodomes offer year-round luxury. With a king-sized bed, AC/heat, and a kitchenette, these domes provide a cozy retreat for couples seeking seclusion and comfort. At Seven Pines, you'll find a welcoming atmosphere, stunning views, and activities for every interest. From tubing on the Buffalo River to hiking our Hidden Holler Trail, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, our friendly hospitality ensures you’ll have a memorable stay. Come unwind, explore, and reconnect with nature at Seven Pines River Resort!

8. Reed Creek Campsites

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4 sites · Tents · Collinwood, TN

Our property is an amazing plot of 45 acres of mostly woods and sits atop a beautiful ridge. Our campsite sits near Reed Patch creek at the bottom of the the ridge as well as near the frog pond! Here, are homes of turkey, deer, owls, woodpeckers, and many other We are a leave no trace campsite. We are 1.5 hours from Nashville, 40 minutes from Amish Country (Ethridge) 20 from Lake Meriwether, and 15 minutes from Natchez Trace.

9. Dancing pines

1 site · Tent, RV · Reagan, TN

Very tall pine trees on this property. A lot of wildlife pass through the camp everyday. A lot of history in this part of Tennessee. If you're into fishing there's a lot of lakes around here, even kayaking. Friendly little town called Lexington is 10 minutes away, good southern food. 2 hours from Memphis and 2 hours from Nashville. There's always someone here on the land to watch your trailer while you're out exploring. Very safe area and quiet!

10. Big Hill Pond State Park

28 sites · Ramer, Tennessee

Discover Big Hill Pond State Park's natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

Campfires

Toilets

Showers

11. Frog Pond Tent Camp

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(3)

1 site · Tent · Adamsville, TN

This 18 acre homestead is conveniently located right on Hwy 64, only 7 miles from the Stantonville Amish community; Shiloh Battlefield and archaeological site; and Savannah, TN. The town of Adamsville (home of Sheriff Buford Pusser!) is only 1.5 miles away, for convenient access to grocery and gas stations. Because we are right on the highway, guests should note that vehicle noise can be heard, especially during weekday working hours. The evenings and early mornings are generally peaceful, and for those seeking a camp spot with easy access, this is the spot for youThere's a 1-acre spring fed pond at the back of the property that's great for swimming, sitting and relaxing, or even fishing (though there's not much in there but perch!) We maintain a 1-mile loop path around our pastures perfect for an early morning or evening stroll, and there is a small 4-5 acre wood guests are also welcome to explore. There is a designated campfire area, and we kindly ask guests not to burn fires at their campsite. In addition to our new flower field and personal vegetable garden, the farm is home to one retired musician (me); one super cool shih tzu (Sirius); and 24 chickens. And we can't wait to share this lovely space with you.

12. Whispering Holler Retreat

1 site · Tent, RV · Hohenwald, TN

Tucked into the secluded hills of Middle Tennessee, Whispering Holler Retreat offers peace, privacy, and a raw connection to nature—just 15 minutes from the Natchez Trace Parkway, but a world away from the crowded campgrounds nearby. This undeveloped gem spans 13.5 acres of wild forest, rolling hollers, and whispering pine ridges. You’ll have your pick of exploration: hike beneath a canopy of hardwoods, photograph the wild rock formations, or simply unwind under a starlit sky far from city lights and noise. We’re adding a gravel RV pad with a 30-amp hookup, giving you a secure, level place to park while still feeling immersed in nature. Currently, there’s no water or sewer, so come prepared to boondock—but that’s part of the adventure here. There are no neighbors in sight—just you, the trees, and the gentle rustle of the wind through the hollers. This makes it an ideal stopover for RV travelers seeking space and solitude between Natchez Trace highlights, or a base camp for off-grid explorers. Dogs are welcome, and there’s plenty of space to roam. Verizon and AT&T cell service are strong enough for basic needs, but spotty enough to let you unplug if you choose. Whether you're here for a peaceful rest under tall pines or a forested hike before the next leg of your road trip, Whispering Holler Retreat invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and savor the stillness of Tennessee woods.

13. Oak Leaf Hills

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Waterloo, AL

The property is 116 acres of primitive camping area, with 2 year-round creeks running through the property and plenty of room to hike and explore nature. About 40 acres are in pasture and the rest are wooded, with an area under development. This is a scenic and picturesque natural environment. We want to keep it that way so we do ask that you have a way to dispose of your waste and leave no litter behind.

14. Wilderness Camp at Healing Springs

7 sites · Tents, RVs · Bath Springs, TN

Welcome to Point Pleasant Nature Preserve in Bath Springs, Tennessee! Our 70-acre property is near the beautiful Tennessee River and is almost entirely rolling hills of timbered forest. A spring-fed creek, Mile Branch, also meanders through the length of the property. With food sources, water, and plenty of cover, there will surely be opportunities to see multitudes of wildlife. Wild nature hikes, splashing in the healing springs of Bath Springs, and woodland camping are some of the opportunities to enjoy your stay with us. Decatur County is known as the Outdoor Capital of Tennessee. The Tennessee River less than a mile away, the way the crow flies. We have a unique biodiversity in the West Tennessee Uplands with opportunities to explore geological formations, the Tennessee River Scenic Byway, the Tennessee Riverline, and much more. It is a sportsman’s paradise. Many of the outdoor activities center around the beautiful Tennessee River, which forms the eastern and southern borders of the county. The clean waters of the Tennessee provide plenty of opportunities, such as fishing, boating, swimming, and waterskiing. People around the state refer to Decatur County as “The Home of the Tennessee River.” Raw woodland camping. Unplug from technology and forest bathe to ground and reset. Pets are welcome, and off-leash is allowable with voice control. Because this is raw woodlands, campers can expect to encounter wildlife, possibly including snakes and pests like ticks, so come prepared! Bushcrafting is allowed. All trash must be carried out. Please leave it better than you found it, and have respect for the flora and fauna because you are visiting their home. Please leave all of the rocks and vegetation on the property. Consuming wild- harvested foods to be consumed on-site is allowable. Nearby towns and communities include Saltillo (4 miles), Clifton (18 miles), Scotts Hill (20 miles), Decaturville (20 miles), Savannah (20 miles), and Lexington (28 miles). Please come, enjoy, and reconnect with nature!

15. White Pines Camp

2 sites · Tents, RVs · Dennis, MS

Private single camp site on 43 acres shared with a home (available on Airbnb) paths for hiking and located close to Bay Springs Lake (10 min walk) and beach. Close to the Natchez Trace and Tishamingo state park. Beautiful and quiet setting. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on voice command or on leash as house guests may have pets. Fire pit, water and electric are supplied. Perfect for tent camping or RVs. We have pulled our 40ft camper in but smaller campers would be easier. Checkin should be done before dark.

16. Pickwick Adventure Camping

1 site · Tent · Savannah, TN

Open area upon a forested hill. Deer rabbits and wild birds can be seen throughout the property. Don’t forget TURKEYS. Nearby nature preserve, state and city parks abound. The Shiloh National battlefield park is close.

17. Fisherman’s Hideaway RV Park

3 sites · RVs · Clifton, TN

Welcome to Fisherman's Hideaway RV Park (FHRP), located directly on the beautiful Tennessee River near Clifton, Tennessee. This small, brand new RV park is located inside Paradise Landing, an RV community of residents and guests who enjoy the peaceful and remote environment. At Fisherman’s Hideaway, we’re open year-round so you can enjoy riverfront RV living during all four seasons. Our community area is designed to provide you with a relaxing area adjacent to the water. One buddy pad is available for those traveling together in two RVs, or for those single RVers who would like more space. Two large single pads are also available. All RV pads are compacted, level, and are topped with small gravel that eliminates the dragging of mud and dirt into your RV. Are you looking forward to lighting up the outdoor fire pit? FHRP has individual bundles of high-quality, seasoned firewood available on-site for purchase. FHRP is a remote location, so you will need to bring all supplies with you. The nearest towns, Clifton and Linden, are small and they do have basic necessities. Clifton is about a 20-minute drive and Linden is about 40-minutes. You can find much more about the area under the Local Services tab on the FHRP website. This is the ideal destination for an active family vacation or a laid back retreat...and it’s 100% pet-friendly. Come unwind on the famous Tennessee River. Enjoy a relaxing day fishing on the river and a quiet evening of stargazing -- all from your camp site. Endless fun and adventures await you and your family at FHRP! Pad Amenities 50/30/20 amp Hookup City Water Septic Hookup Combo Fire Pit/BBQ Grill 46" Round Picnic Table Park Amenities Awesome WiFi (fiber optic cable) Pickleball Court Dog Run (15'x60' fenced) Storm Shelter (EF-5 rated) 18' above ground pool (seasonal) Kayaks (fishing and pleasure) and Lifejackets Outdoor Kitchen (sink with hot water, grill, prep area) Outdoor Shower (with hot water) Covered Pergola with Adirondack Chairs 8' Picnic Table Chiminea Cornhole Concrete stairs to the river Firewood available for purchase

18. Shady Grove

2 sites · RVs · Clifton, TN

A SLICE OF PARADISE WITH ELBOW ROOM. Come enjoy Your Private 1/2 acre Kentucky Lake Water front camp with full hook ups. Bring your BOAT. Gated RV community has its own private boat launch. Beach you boat on our gentle sloping shore line. Enjoy world class fishing, or a gentle paddle boat / kayak ride as you float on by historic river boat cruise ships. Nearby Clifton hosts a full service marina for your boating needs. (including jet ski and boat rentals) I have two adjacent 1/2 acre river front camps. (Shady Grove and Sugar Magnolia) Both camps sit atop atop an open meadow at the tree line that gently slopes through the shaded hardwood canopy to the waters edge. Shady Grove & Sugar Magnolia both have gravel pads and full hook up (50-30amp Electric/ Water / Sewer) Have trailer? Not a problem, a free gated storage facility is located a short drive away. Don't forget to ask about Weekly and Monthly Rates

19. Cedar Ridge Campground

12 sites · Russellville, AL

Cedar Ridge Campground stands out as a family-owned and operated retreat that welcomes guests year-round, offering a variety of stay options including nightly, weekly, and extended visits to accommodate every camping style. Nestled in a serene wooded area of Northwest Alabama, this campground is conveniently located next to Cedar Creek Lake, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here, you can indulge in a range of activities such as fishing, jet-skiing, boating, and swimming, making it an ideal spot for adventure seekers. After a day of exploring the great outdoors, Cedar Ridge Campground provides a comfortable environment to unwind. Gather with family and friends in the inviting pavilion, challenge each other to a game of pool or foosball, or grab a quick snack at the camp store. Whether you choose to relax at your campsite or engage in fun activities, Cedar Ridge ensures a memorable camping experience that combines the beauty of nature with the comforts of home.

20. Sweethaven RV Park

4 sites · Waterloo, AL

Sweethaven RV Park stands out as a hidden gem in the charming town of Waterloo, Alabama, surrounded by lush trees and the serene beauty of nature. This quaint historic town, located in Lauderdale County in Northwest Alabama, is perfectly positioned along the scenic banks of Pickwick Lake and the Tennessee River, offering breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere. As you make Sweethaven RV Park your home base, you'll have the opportunity to explore a variety of nearby attractions. Enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking in the picturesque landscapes that surround the area. After a day of adventure, you can unwind at local restaurants and shops that showcase the unique culture and flavors of the region. With its combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and a welcoming community, Sweethaven RV Park is the ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat while enjoying the best of what Waterloo and its surroundings have to offer.

Camper favorites in and near Pickwick Lake

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Pickwick Adventure Camping

1 site · Tent · Savannah, TN

Open area upon a forested hill. Deer rabbits and wild birds can be seen throughout the property. Don’t forget TURKEYS. Nearby nature preserve, state and city parks abound. The Shiloh National battlefield park is close.

Fisherman’s Hideaway RV Park

3 sites · RVs · Clifton, TN

Welcome to Fisherman's Hideaway RV Park (FHRP), located directly on the beautiful Tennessee River near Clifton, Tennessee. This small, brand new RV park is located inside Paradise Landing, an RV community of residents and guests who enjoy the peaceful and remote environment. At Fisherman’s Hideaway, we’re open year-round so you can enjoy riverfront RV living during all four seasons. Our community area is designed to provide you with a relaxing area adjacent to the water. One buddy pad is available for those traveling together in two RVs, or for those single RVers who would like more space. Two large single pads are also available. All RV pads are compacted, level, and are topped with small gravel that eliminates the dragging of mud and dirt into your RV. Are you looking forward to lighting up the outdoor fire pit? FHRP has individual bundles of high-quality, seasoned firewood available on-site for purchase. FHRP is a remote location, so you will need to bring all supplies with you. The nearest towns, Clifton and Linden, are small and they do have basic necessities. Clifton is about a 20-minute drive and Linden is about 40-minutes. You can find much more about the area under the Local Services tab on the FHRP website. This is the ideal destination for an active family vacation or a laid back retreat...and it’s 100% pet-friendly. Come unwind on the famous Tennessee River. Enjoy a relaxing day fishing on the river and a quiet evening of stargazing -- all from your camp site. Endless fun and adventures await you and your family at FHRP! Pad Amenities 50/30/20 amp Hookup City Water Septic Hookup Combo Fire Pit/BBQ Grill 46" Round Picnic Table Park Amenities Awesome WiFi (fiber optic cable) Pickleball Court Dog Run (15'x60' fenced) Storm Shelter (EF-5 rated) 18' above ground pool (seasonal) Kayaks (fishing and pleasure) and Lifejackets Outdoor Kitchen (sink with hot water, grill, prep area) Outdoor Shower (with hot water) Covered Pergola with Adirondack Chairs 8' Picnic Table Chiminea Cornhole Concrete stairs to the river Firewood available for purchase

Shady Grove

2 sites · RVs · Clifton, TN

A SLICE OF PARADISE WITH ELBOW ROOM. Come enjoy Your Private 1/2 acre Kentucky Lake Water front camp with full hook ups. Bring your BOAT. Gated RV community has its own private boat launch. Beach you boat on our gentle sloping shore line. Enjoy world class fishing, or a gentle paddle boat / kayak ride as you float on by historic river boat cruise ships. Nearby Clifton hosts a full service marina for your boating needs. (including jet ski and boat rentals) I have two adjacent 1/2 acre river front camps. (Shady Grove and Sugar Magnolia) Both camps sit atop atop an open meadow at the tree line that gently slopes through the shaded hardwood canopy to the waters edge. Shady Grove & Sugar Magnolia both have gravel pads and full hook up (50-30amp Electric/ Water / Sewer) Have trailer? Not a problem, a free gated storage facility is located a short drive away. Don't forget to ask about Weekly and Monthly Rates

Cedar Ridge Campground

12 sites · Russellville, AL

Cedar Ridge Campground stands out as a family-owned and operated retreat that welcomes guests year-round, offering a variety of stay options including nightly, weekly, and extended visits to accommodate every camping style. Nestled in a serene wooded area of Northwest Alabama, this campground is conveniently located next to Cedar Creek Lake, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here, you can indulge in a range of activities such as fishing, jet-skiing, boating, and swimming, making it an ideal spot for adventure seekers. After a day of exploring the great outdoors, Cedar Ridge Campground provides a comfortable environment to unwind. Gather with family and friends in the inviting pavilion, challenge each other to a game of pool or foosball, or grab a quick snack at the camp store. Whether you choose to relax at your campsite or engage in fun activities, Cedar Ridge ensures a memorable camping experience that combines the beauty of nature with the comforts of home.

Sweethaven RV Park

4 sites · Waterloo, AL

Sweethaven RV Park stands out as a hidden gem in the charming town of Waterloo, Alabama, surrounded by lush trees and the serene beauty of nature. This quaint historic town, located in Lauderdale County in Northwest Alabama, is perfectly positioned along the scenic banks of Pickwick Lake and the Tennessee River, offering breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere. As you make Sweethaven RV Park your home base, you'll have the opportunity to explore a variety of nearby attractions. Enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking in the picturesque landscapes that surround the area. After a day of adventure, you can unwind at local restaurants and shops that showcase the unique culture and flavors of the region. With its combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and a welcoming community, Sweethaven RV Park is the ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat while enjoying the best of what Waterloo and its surroundings have to offer.

Public campgrounds in and near Pickwick Lake

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J.P. Coleman Campground

120 sites · Tents, RVs · in J.P. Coleman State Park

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Tishomingo Campground

69 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tishomingo State Park

Big Hill Pond Campground

28 sites · in Big Hill Pond State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

S

Sunshine

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Reed Creek Campsites

Amazing place to stay, bread was amazing! We even got out and hiked a waterfall close by. Other than the cold front and low of 27 on Sunday night 🤦‍♀️ we had a great time.

Tracy

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Campingallstars

Chris’s land was very secluded but easily accessible. We really enjoyed our two night stay. Very close to Dismal Canyons and a few miles from town in case you need anything. I would suggest taking water for drinking/cleaning up. I would definitely recommend and I am planning another trip soon.

Emily

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Reed Creek Campsites

Very private location by the creek. Will def be back!

J

John

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to HeartStone Campground

Dan and Mandy were excellent hosts. We camped in campsite 10 which was big enough for two families with dogs. There was plenty of firewood to be gathered. Dan and Mandy were responsive, extremely accommodating, and checked in the right amount. They are very passionate about their campground and it shows. The bathrooms were well lit and fully stocked. Look forward to coming back here with the kids! There is a swimming hole on site but the water was low due to lack of rain recently. It was still knee high and felt refreshing. The kids loved walking through the water. The star gazing at night was incredible. There is no city lights. Will definitely come back!

Pecan Platform...in the fall you can grab some pecans!

M

Michael

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Frog Pond Tent Camp

Sevylla was a great host and her property was perfect for my solo weekend trip to Tennessee. Sevylla met me on arrival, showed me around the property and was extremely nice and helpful. The campsite was very clean and well maintained and the platform for my tent made for a comfortable nights sleep. Would definitely stay here in the future.

S

Stephanie

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Reed Creek Campsites

Really great spot and really great family ♥️ Stayed here with my dog and there was plenty to explore. Nice sounds by the creek and slept great. Definitely recommend Sharla’s sourdough bread!

M

Meghan

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Reed Creek Campsites

Sharla is so kind and has a beautiful property! Walking the creek was a lot of fun and at night the view for star gazing was phenomenal! I would definitely stay again.

The tent sites are nestled in the forest and surrounded by trees.

H

Heather

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to HeartStone Campground

Beautiful and very peaceful place. The host were a amazing and our campsite was perfect.

A

Amy

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Reed Creek Campsites

We spent two wonderful nights at Sharla’s hip camp. The creeks are fun, the view of the sky is beautiful, the entire experience is perfect. Sharla is a fantastic host and communicates so well. I hope to come back and definitely recommend:)

D

Donald

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Reed Creek Campsites

I love camping by the creek and falling asleep to the sound of the water. Wading in the stream was surreal and completely rejuvenating.

D

Donald

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Reed Creek Campsites

Really cool spot. The sounds of the creek lull you to sleep. I am definitely going to come back here.

R

Riley

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Reed Creek Campsites

My fiancé and I spent a weekend at this campsite in late summer, and it was absolutely magical. It gets very hot, so be sure to bring a canopy for shade or plan to spend most of your time relaxing in the creek, which we happily did. The location was beautiful and easy to find, and the owner made us feel welcome right away. We set up in the open field so we could enjoy prime stargazing, and it turned out to be the perfect spot. The night sky was incredible. The real highlight was the creek. It was refreshing, freeing, and so much fun for both us and our dogs. I highly recommend walking upstream behind the campsite until you reach a cliff area with a stunning waterfall. Just make sure to wear good water shoes, as it can get slippery. A 100 out of 10 stay. We will definitely be coming back!

D

Dana

July 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Reed Creek Campsites

First booking on Hipcamp and wow did I find an amazing place! Sharla, Garrett and kids are the most precious family and awesome host! My site was right where 2 creeks join and having the babbling water sing me to sleep each night was amazing. Very secluded place with open skies, no lights and very little road noise. If you love exploring creeks or just forest bathing- this is a perfect spot to do it! My 2 pups were able to be off leash almost the entire time and that is so rare to find. Our favorite spot was where the 2 creeks merge. I had a spiritual moment there. The water temp is about 15-20• cooler in one verses the other. I found a flat rock and sat in the creeks allowing one side of my body to be in the cooler water and the other in the warmer- I can’t describe the feeling I experienced, but I certainly felt some cleansing/healing energy work being performed by Mother Nature. I found myself briefly sobbing and then felt my body just let it all go- shoulders relaxed, my spine felt like it was being rung out like a dirty mop. Nuts it may seem- but I walked away from this trip feeling more whole than I have in a long time. The place is magical. Cell service was in and out which I enjoyed. It’s advertised as a “short walk” in and it’s literally steps away. I’m a heavy packer so I was concerned, but felt like an idiot when I arrived. 😂 Single female and felt completely safe. Sharla’s Rosemary focaccia was a great addition. Book it now! We will def be returning!

B

Brendan

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Reed Creek Campsites

Great campsite and wonderful hosts. Very private with two nice creeks. Will visit again

C

Cori

July 2025

Tent

With kids

4 nights at Reed Creek Campsites

This land was absolutely gorgeous. The creek is clear and cold. Our kids loved wading in the water and finding small fish. The camping area is huge with a ton of options for set up. We pull a utility trailer with a large SUV and tent camp and had lots of space left. Hosts were more than accommodating when we had to leave mid-trip due to my daughter falling ill. Would highly recommend this spot. We hope to return.

O

Olivia

June 2025

Tent

1 night at Reed Creek Campsites

Beautiful spot that felt private and safe. The creeks are clean, cool, and calming, and the sound of rushing water is heard throughout the campsite. I would definitely stay here again!

M

Matthew

May 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Campingallstars

Chris is an excellent host, great communication, friendly, and dedicated to making your stay enjoyable. We primitive camped on the side of a vally that was beautiful. It had a nice clean stream for water, a level area for our tent, a fire pit, and the mountain laurel was in bloom. We saw deer and there are even glow worms on the property, close to tent site two where we stayed. The trails and sites were marked well. A big thank you to Chris and his family for an enjoyable camp. God bless.

Nearby public parks

Browse national and state parks near Pickwick Lake

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(7)

Tishomingo State Park

Tishomingo, Mississippi

100%

(2)

J.P. Coleman State Park

Mississippi

Big Hill Pond State Park

Ramer, Tennessee

More campsites in and near Pickwick Lake

Cedar Ridge Campground

12 sites · Russellville, AL

Cedar Ridge Campground stands out as a family-owned and operated retreat that welcomes guests year-round, offering a variety of stay options including nightly, weekly, and extended visits to accommodate every camping style. Nestled in a serene wooded area of Northwest Alabama, this campground is conveniently located next to Cedar Creek Lake, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here, you can indulge in a range of activities such as fishing, jet-skiing, boating, and swimming, making it an ideal spot for adventure seekers. After a day of exploring the great outdoors, Cedar Ridge Campground provides a comfortable environment to unwind. Gather with family and friends in the inviting pavilion, challenge each other to a game of pool or foosball, or grab a quick snack at the camp store. Whether you choose to relax at your campsite or engage in fun activities, Cedar Ridge ensures a memorable camping experience that combines the beauty of nature with the comforts of home.

Sweethaven RV Park

4 sites · Waterloo, AL

Sweethaven RV Park stands out as a hidden gem in the charming town of Waterloo, Alabama, surrounded by lush trees and the serene beauty of nature. This quaint historic town, located in Lauderdale County in Northwest Alabama, is perfectly positioned along the scenic banks of Pickwick Lake and the Tennessee River, offering breathtaking views and a tranquil atmosphere. As you make Sweethaven RV Park your home base, you'll have the opportunity to explore a variety of nearby attractions. Enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking in the picturesque landscapes that surround the area. After a day of adventure, you can unwind at local restaurants and shops that showcase the unique culture and flavors of the region. With its combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and a welcoming community, Sweethaven RV Park is the ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat while enjoying the best of what Waterloo and its surroundings have to offer.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best forest camping in Pickwick Lake guide

Where to go

Pickwick Dam Area

South of Pickwick Dam, Pickwick Landing State Park is watersports central, with a marina and an array of boat rentals, including kayaks, canoes, fishing boats, and pontoon party barges. Landlubbers may prefer to play the 18-hole golf course, try their hand at disc golf, or stroll the two easy hiking trails. Campers will find lakefront tent sites and RV sites. North of the river, the Bruton Branch State Recreation Area has primitive tent sites, most of them by the water.

Southwest Tennessee

For more tent and RV campsites, check out the small towns and farms near the lake and the Tennessee River in southwest Tennessee. Glamping options—think cabins, Airstream rentals, and horse farms—are plentiful too, and many have boat ramps. Top small towns for camping include Counce, Savannah, and Henderson, and the TVA manages the 92-site Pickwick Dam Campground in Savannah.

Mississippi & Alabama

Skinny Pickwick Lake stretches from Tennessee into the northern reaches of Mississippi and Alabama, where waterfront campgrounds are just as recreation-focused as their neighbors in Tennessee. Cabins and campsites are close to both the lake and the Tennessee River at J.P. Coleman State Park, which is perched on a lakeside bluff in Mississippi.

Memphis & Jackson Surrounds

Home to the National Civil Rights Museum, blues-playing Beale Street, Elvis Presley’s Graceland, and a booming food hall scene, Memphis is a full-immersion destination. Not far from the city and close to the Mississippi, campgrounds, RV parks, and glamping destinations are plentiful on farms and forestlands. Memphis is 120 miles west of Pickwick Lake, while Jackson, another urban launchpad, is 60 miles north of Pickwick Dam.