The best campgrounds near Sewanee, Tennessee with swimming

Welcome to Hipcamp, your one-stop destination for camping adventures near Sewanee, Tennessee! With over 2000 options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect campsite that caters to your love for swimming. Whether you're looking for a serene lake or a refreshing river, we've got you covered. Check out the top-rated campsites like Belle and Beau Acres (305 reviews), The Falls at Sewanee Creek (286 reviews), and Hammock'Sway (220 reviews) to see what other campers have loved. With popular amenities like trash, campfires, and showers, and activities like hiking, boating, and off-roading (OHV), your camping experience will be nothing short of amazing. Plus, with an average price per night of $28 and options as low as $10, you'll find a campsite that fits your budget. So pack your swimwear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience near Sewanee, Tennessee!

96% (2.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Welcome to Hipcamp, your one-stop destination for camping adventures near Sewanee, Tennessee! With over 2000 options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect campsite that caters to your love for swimming. Whether you're looking for a serene lake or a refreshing river, we've got you covered. Check out the top-rated campsites like Belle and Beau Acres (305 reviews), The Falls at Sewanee Creek (286 reviews), and Hammock'Sway (220 reviews) to see what other campers have loved. With popular amenities like trash, campfires, and showers, and activities like hiking, boating, and off-roading (OHV), your camping experience will be nothing short of amazing. Plus, with an average price per night of $28 and options as low as $10, you'll find a campsite that fits your budget. So pack your swimwear and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience near Sewanee, Tennessee!

96% (2.4K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Falls at Sewanee Creek

98%

(681)

15mi from Sewanee · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tracy City, TN

45 private acres on our homestead for you to roam. Eight eclectic sites to choose from ranging from primitive camping to a lovely log cabin. All except the log cabin lovingly built by the owner, loaded with creative touches from up-purposed materials. Featuring: * Two gorgeous waterfalls. Each of our stay-sites are located within about 100 yards of Fifty-foot tall Miller’s Falls. * Two large caves at the end of a short, but rugged hike. * A fairy Village filled with Hollow Oak Tree Fairy cottages and bio-luminescent trees that glow after dark. Magical. * Three acres for group camping centered on a well-equipped, covered outdoor kitchen. * Peaceful Meditation Retreats at the Outdoor Kitchen under brain-wave enhancing satellite dishes. * Certified Hypnotherapy Disclaimer: The flow of the waterfall is subject to fluctuations in temperature, seasonal droughts, & rain fall. The most favorable seasons for waterfall flow are fall, winter & early spring. We came to this magical place to found a self-reliant, homesteading eco-community when I retired from corporate life in 2006. It's called the Village on Sewanee Creek, named for the creek 800 feet below the bluff where we are located. I traveled the world as a senior executive for Baskin-Robbins, Dunkin' Donuts, Papa Johns, Blockbuster, 7-Eleven and other retail franchises, making the world safe for Pizza, Ice Cream, Pancakes Video Rentals and American convenience. And I was ready for something more fufilling. I scouted for a place of exquisite natural beauty and I found it here. I bought way too much land just before the real estate bust and learned how to turn a nice fortune into a very small one. I faced challenges and had lots of fun. Now I want to share our experience. If you love nature and the outdoors, this is the best place to celebrate it.

2. Fireside Camp + Lodge

97%

(257)

16mi from Sewanee · 37 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Sequatchie, TN

Tucked away on Sequatchie Mountain, this little campground and hostel invites you to experience some of East Tennessee's best parks for climbing and hiking. Cliffs and waterfalls are minutes away at near by Foster Falls, Denny Cove and Castle Rock. The hostel offers 3 bedrooms, fast internet, complete kitchen, comfortable beds, smart TV, fire pit, and laundry. The campground offers dispersed sites with fire pits and picnic tables, as well as clean bathrooms and a communal barn with a microwave, fridge, games, tables and chairs. You can walk our 22 acres and even take a short hike out to our bluff. Make sure to say "Hi" to our chickens and our barn cat, Strawberry, on the way. Add in the view of the stars and that makes this the perfect basecamp after a long day out.

3. Elk Head Overlook

95%

(318)

13mi from Sewanee · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Pelham, TN

**Please note the address is 9665 SR 50, Pelham, TN 37301** The best part about this site are the views! Relax on the side of the Cumberland Plateau while overlooking Burroughs Cove and the Elk River. You can see the camp sites from the main road, so there will be some road noise. Sites 1/2 are hard/large graveled, tent camping will be very challenging, heavy duty tent stakes are highly recommended with mats/padding. There is an electrical box at each end of the hard graveled parking areas (Sites 1 and 2) with 20- and 30-amp plugs, plus 110v. If the power is not working, please check the panel and turn on/reset the breakers, many of our guests turn them off when departing. If you are at Site #2 and the steps above do not work, please check/do the same at the Site #1 panel (it is the master power source). Water is NOT available on site. NOTE: Depending on the time of year (warmer months only) a water container with a limited amount of NON-POTABLE water is on site for your use. Please plan on filling your water reservoir(s) PRIOR to arriving. There is an outhouse for all guests, picnic tables and fire rings for Sites 1 and 2. The camping area is fairly close to SR-50 so please expect to hear some road noise, more so in the winter months. The entrance/driveway is on a small incline, if you are traveling in a light vehicle and a heavy camper, it's best to maintain a slow and steady speed to the camp site (for almost everyone, this is not an issue). If you are towing a camper, we recommend the total length of the vehicle and the trailer not exceeding 30ft, There is not a significant place to "turn around" at the sites and novice drivers (not used to backing out of tight spots with longer rigs) may find this very challenging. There is a double gate that is usually closed, and latched so it stays closed, it is not "locked". The site is self-serve (not manned), Site #1 is to the left, Site #2 is to the right, and Site #3 is down the path past the outhouse at the bottom of the path. It is recommended that campers set up early for Site 3 (still daylight) to get an idea of the layout. Parking for Site #3 is by the shed at the main entrance and power is not available at the site.

4. Tims Ford State Park

100%

(5)

72 sites · Lynchburg, Moore County, Tennessee

Aquatic activities are the main draw at this Tennessee park.

Potable water

Toilets

Campfires

5. Fall Creek Falls State Park

96%

(34)

268 sites · Spencer, Tennessee

Fall for this state park thanks to its plethora of waterfalls.

Potable water

Toilets

Campfires

6. Lyric Grin

26mi from Sewanee · 1 site · Lodging · Whitwell, TN

A land trust in the Sequatchie Valley, on the edge of the Cumberland Escarpment, featuring a 1000’ elevation change, bluffs, canyons, plateaus, ridges, creeks, waterfalls, trails, and caves with both sculpted and micro environments, all sacred. A close drive to Cumberland Folk School and numerous renowned Cumberland Plateau TN State Parks. We have comfortable beds to come home to after exploring with forest views as you rejuvenate with your hot shower or tub, and replenish with all of the kitchen amenities. Or, book a massage or cave exploration here before enjoying our art gallery with handmade pottery, glass lamp work, kaleidescopes, and copper electroformed magical tools and jewels! Access to our two mile trail and creek (when running,) are granted with your stay so you may explore the local flora and fauna right outside of your door! Our Arboretum trail and guidebook are an excellent way to become familiar with the plants around you! Although there is a noon check out, you may remove your belongings and vehicles from the Mud Dauber site and park at the property entrance and stay to enjoy the land until sunset on the day of your scheduled departure:) ***Please message us to request a Sunday as part of a longer stay. With the expansiveness of this land, for safety, it is important to only explore the area around your site and to stay on the geomarked trails unless you are being guided by one of us. Cave, bluff hikes, and additional on-land adventures extra and by appointment only. Massage therapy available on site.

7. Hammock’Sway Private Off Grid Camp

98%

(533)

35mi from Sewanee · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Rock Island, TN

Get Lost or Find Yourself. Sway Camping is a private, Off Grid camping experience in Rock Island TN. Situated between Isha Yoga center, Fall Creek Falls, and Rock Island state park, this property is something special. Each campsite offers a private space perfect for getting away, or large enough for family and groups. Pet Friendly property with lots of room to be a part of nature along the beautiful Rocky River. Camp along the river or up in your own private forest. One of the darkest skies around so be ready for some stargazing at night by the fire. This is a property I purchased in 2018 to create a camping experience that reflected the image of camping as a kid. This isn’t a "hotel without walls" like state parks and KOA's/ This is real camping. No neighbors. No electric wires. Just nature and beauty in a quiet environment. Clothing optional sites available and great space for small events and large groups. Get lost or find yourself relaxing along the Rocky River. Stay in a hammock, a tent, camper, RV, or one of our cabins. Privacy and freedom is what we are about. Pet friendly camping that should be shared, but please don't tell everyone you know. Only your favorite people.. Then come camp!

8. South Suckcreek Campground

96%

(329)

27mi from Sewanee · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · Chattanooga, TN

Learn more about this land: Enjoy sunset views of the mountains, plus trails for bicycling, motorcycle riding, 4-wheelers nearby. Set on a low traffic road at the foot of the mountain, this property is close to Prentice Cooper State Forest. Find kayak rentals at the foot of the mountain!

9. Solace Farm Homestead

99%

(146)

14mi from Sewanee · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Coalmont, TN

We raise Scottish Highland cattle, goats, sheep, and alpacas on 90 acres of reclaimed coal mine land. We are using the animals and permaculture techniques to repair this land to a vibrant, productive place. We also have ducks, beehives, gardens and a 2200 square foot hoop-house, and we homeschool 3 boys as well. We have a farm store with a variety of soaps and personal care products, as well as farm products such as homegrown and ground cornmeal, granola made with our duck eggs, herbal teas and herbs, tanned sheepskins, etc. The farm tours are 1-1.5 hours, the "Junior Tour" is largely meet-the-animals, but also a stroll through the hoop-house, and whatever else may be available (ducklings, bottle feeding goat kids or alpaca crias, etc). The "Sustainability Tour" is with Caleb, and - based on your interests - is focused more on how we graze the animals, rainwater collection, solar set-up, farm management, etc. We gear this tour heavily toward individual interest, basically Q & A about what you want to know about small farm/sustainable/off-grid living.

10. Harrison Bay State Park

92%

(6)

149 sites · Lakesite, Tennessee

Packed with adventure opportunities, Harrison Bay is an easy escape from the city.

Potable water

Toilets

Campfires

11. Sunset Ridge

100%

(19)

26mi from Sewanee · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Normandy, TN

Our property is a completely private outdoor paradise full of outdoor activities of your choosing. With three private wooded rolling hills with steep valleys, it makes for the perfect place for all of your outdoor desires. Plus access to TVA property and Normandy lake, our property goes beyond our boundaries and offers a great piece of the great Tennessee outdoors for anyone visiting. Plus a sunset that never disappoints as you stare over the lake from your campsite. Water and electric 30 amp hookup available with a deck, Table and chairs. Hammock beams on the deck as well.

12. River Life RV Resort

99%

(45)

30mi from Sewanee · 4 sites · RVs · Signal Mountain, TN

Learn more about this land: Private RV camping on the Tennessee River. Convenient location. Close to downtown Chattanooga. Double boat ramps, fire pits, canoeing, and fishing. Open year round. Full hookups! Come visit us and see why we say.... Life is better at the river! Laura Please note: Holiday rates may vary! Contact me for info.

13. Mountainview Rock Island rv/tent

100%

(104)

45mi from Sewanee · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Rock Island, TN

Little Bone Cave campground is in the mountains of Tennessee with hiking trails and a beautiful view located on 16 acres. This campground adjoins Bone Cave State Natural Area located in Van Buren County. Big Bone Cave is a 400 acre natural area with trails and a cave that contained bones of a giant ground sloth discovered in 1811 and is maintained by Rock Island State Park. The cave is not currently open to the public. Rock Island State Park (swimming, fishing and hiking) is only 6 miles from the campground and Fall Creek Falls State Park (swimming, fishing, hiking and home of the Annual Mountaineer Folk Festival) is a beautiful 25 mile drive through the winding roads and mountains of Van Buren county. A public boat ramp maintained by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is two miles away to access the Caney Fork River. Come enjoy with friends and family. Campsite #1, "Valley View" is a Rv with 30 amp electric with sewer and water or it can be a primitive campsite that is a wide open space and is approximately 1-2 acres with a beautiful view overlooking the valley below. We do have electric, sewer and water 340 gl tank with a hose, a picnic table and a fire ring at this site. if you'd prefer, you can locate a spot of your choosing off the beaten path anywhere within our 16 acres (ask the hostess for details). We now have rv hook up with a 30 amp electric service, sewer and water available. We have wildlife such as bobcats, coyotes, deer, owls, snakes, turkeys and rumor has it, maybe even a bigfoot. I hope you come enjoy friends, family and nature to make this an incredible experience.

14. The Land at FlatTop Mountain

91%

(129)

39mi from Sewanee · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Flat Top Mountain, TN

Off the grid, out of the way, rustic 10 acres where you can pitch a tent, take a hike and enjoy a campfire. Mostly wooded with nearby sites to explore, a few swings for fun (swings have recently been removed due to trees falling) and a fantastically cold SEASONAL mountain creek for cooling off. Always improving our place, we recently removed the 'cabins', which had become unsuitable for use. The property is part of a community, which you may notice on the way to the campsite. Site 1 (The Swings) will be first left after you turn into the driveway. It is a U shaped drive, at the bottom of the U, park and walk 15 feet to site. Site 2 (Main Container) is at the end of main driveway, next to container. Drive to end of driveway, park and walk 10 feet to camp. Both are equidistant to the outhouse. There is a trail (tagged with red) that goes all the way around the property, a top half and a bottom half that will take you by the creek. Please look through all of the listing information. The SEASONAL creek at the bottom of the slope is wonderful and there is a spot for two adults to sit down into the crisp water and plenty of room for lots of feet. If you follow the path in the middle of the property, a 30 minute walk (therefore not on our property) will take you to a beautiful swimming hole. It's cold! There is no power or running water at the property so it's an ideal place to get away from daily life and truly relax. We hope you will enjoy it as much as our family does! Please note that even though some pictures show buildings, there are no longer cabins/shelter on The Land. We are unable to remove pictures Hipcampers post. It is raw 10 acres so, yes there are ticks. Cover up and spray as you see fit, just be aware. Also, since it is 10 acres of trees, there is plenty of firewood. We don't leave any bundles, just find down limbs and presto, firewood. DO NOT USE THE MAP LISTED OR GOOGLE MAPS; it will take you straight through water. We send detailed directions to you once the day before your booking. Please plan to travel in with daylight, it is incredibly difficult to navigate to our space in the dark. Follow us on Instagram @thelandatflattop Really cool nearby spot to check out: https://www.flattopmountainfarm.com/

15. Forest at Sand Mountain

95%

(49)

33mi from Sewanee · 4 sites · Tents · Trenton, GA

22 acres of Private, Magickal forest spanning the bottom valley all the way to the top of Sand Mountain. The mountain has several natural terraces and flat areas suitable for campers to choose from including a nice spot overlooking a rock garden. As you ascend Sand Mountain, the vegetation thins revealing spectacular views of Lookout Mountain especially in the fall & winter months after the leaves have fallen. At the very top of the property are 30+ ft high cliffs with a cave. It has a colorful collection of lichen growing in it and we have named it our 'Mandala cave'. The cave is great for meditation. Rejuvenating guided hikes to the cliffs & caves are available upon request. This is raw land & raw forest. If you enjoy bush craft, there is plenty of material for you to build a lean-to, tipi, or structure of choice. Trees range from poplar to multiple species of oak. Natural wildlife include deer, wild turkeys, scorpions, and ticks. You're welcome to bring fluffy as we've never seen any predators, but there is a slight chance there could be some around. A lost animal on the mountain could be near impossible to find. We have 2 male cats. Unfortunately, the Earth does what she wants and weather forecasts can't be relied upon. We've had sunny days that have been forecasted to rain and un-predicted downpours. It can be raining at the top or the bottom of the mountain but not at the campsites in the middle.

16. The Cynefin Luxury Safari Tent

95%

(47)

47mi from Sewanee · 1 site · Lodging · Mentone, AL

About this space We invite you to our little slice of paradise! Enjoy the natural beauty of Lookout Mountain in Mentone, AL. Folklore Forest has 270 feet of Little River Frontage for you to enjoy. Considered to be the purest, natural flowing river in the state, bring your fishing gear and kayaks. Listen to Pipwild Spring trickling over the mossy rock waterfall. Sit at the water’s edge under canopies of rhododendrons and holly trees, and sit at your campfire and view the stunning starry nightscape. The space Our 10x12 foot canvas safari tent offers a cozy 120 sq ft of space which can accommodate a twin size mattress in addition to the provided queen bed. Here's what you find inside: - Queen size bed with headboard, memory foam mattress, and antimicrobial waterproof cover. - Comforter, 4 pillows (with antimicrobial covers), and furry blanket. - Side table with reading material and games. - Wood camp stove (for heating the tent on chilly nights or cooking). - Heat powered stove fan. - Bundle of camp stove sized firewood. - Mr Heater propane space heater with 30 lb propane tank. - 6 person Coleman pop up tent. - Yoga Mat - Cart with coffee, silverware, plates, cups, bowls, French press, salt/pepper, sugar, kitchen and grill utensils, cutting board, and oven mitt. - Butane camp stove with fuel. - Battery powered fan/light combination. - Portable battery powered lantern. - Cast iron skillet, non stick skillet, medium sauce pan, small wok, and kettle. - 3 wash tubs. - Handmade broom. - 1 person hammock. Here's what you'll find outside: - agon to help you bring luggage down from the car or to gather firewood. - 6ft picnic table. - Cafe table and two chairs. - 2 Adirondack chairs. - Combination fire pit/grill. - Solar powered cafe lights. - Solar shower. - Camp toilet with bags and Absorbent Gel Liquid Waste Gelling and Deodorizing Powder - Trash can and trash bags. - 5 gallon Coleman water cooler. You need to bring: - Towels and rags - Food - Toilet paper and paper products - Bug spray for summer months. Also recommended to bring: - Ice or dry ice - Extra wood (you can burn any fallen wood/twigs you find but don’t cut trees! - Extra water (river water is pure but we always recommend boiling or filtering anything you drink) Guest access Folklore Forest is on 3 acres and has 270 feet of River Frontage at your disposal. Little River is considered to be the purest, natural flowing river in the state. Bring your fishing gear and kayaks. Sit on the rocks at the base of the waterfall under the rhododendrons and holly trees, and wade in the water in the warm months. Park on the side of the road in front of the Cynefin sign. There are solar lights illuminating the path to the tent if you arrive after dark. There you will find a that you can use to bring your luggage down. Other things to note • The river will rise and fall depending on how much rain we are getting. It tends to be lower late summer to early fall. We cannot guarantee water levels. • This is primitive off grid camping. There's no electricity or running water. We recommend bringing a portable battery pack to charge devices. • Please be respectful of any wildlife (there are white tail deer, raccoons, weasels, harmless black snakes, mink, foxes, coyotes, many birds, and the extremely, and we do mean extremely, rare black bear), while fishing in the little river is allowed, hunting is prohibited.

17. Maclellan Island- An Urban Oasis

92%

(57)

37mi from Sewanee · 2 sites · Tents · Chattanooga, TN

YOU MUST PROVIDE WATERCRAFT OF SOME KIND TO GET TO MACLELLAN ISLAND! Maclellan Island is a unique 18.8-acre wildlife sanctuary situated in the middle of the Tennessee River, in the heart of downtown Chattanooga. It is accessible by water only. The island is home to a great diversity of plants, animals, and birds. Campers can enjoy easy wildlife viewing in a true urban wilderness setting. Muskrats, geese, and kingfishers can be seen feeding at the water’s edge, while the forest is home to songbirds, turkeys, raccoons, owls, possums, foxes, and woodpeckers. It's a great place to quietly watch nesting osprey and great-blue heron as well as an important feeding area for migrating warblers. IMPORTANT: Maclellan Island is accessible by boat ONLY. You will need to provide your own transportation to and from the island, either using your own boat or by renting a kayak/SUP from a local outfitter. We recommend renting kayaks from L2 Outdoors who launches from Coolidge Park. Maclellan Island’s earliest inhabitants were Indigenous People whose island community was likely an extension or suburb of Citico, a nearby village. Farmed in the 1800’s and early 1900’s, the island was plowed for many years and largely free of the trees which shade it today. Floods have covered the island from time to time and drove away numerous early settlers including one early farmer, Abel Kesterson, who survived rising waters in 1867 only by holding onto the horns of his cow as they swam to safety. The island eventually passed through the hands of several prominent companies as well as a number of more rambunctious inhabitants. Finally in 1954 Maclellan Island was donated to the Chattanooga Audubon Society by Robert J. Maclellan for preservation as a wildlife refuge. If you'll be arriving by a motorized boat, you will need to use a public boat ramp. The closest one is at the Tennessee River Park. Coolidge Park has a kayak/canoe/SUP launch and you can park cars in their parking lot overnight for a fee.

18. St. Isidore Farm

94%

(34)

15mi from Sewanee · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Hillsboro, TN

Nestled in the corner of a serene field, this RV campsite offers stunning views of peaceful pastures and is located near our barn. The full service, pull through sites are set on a gentle sloping knoll, providing a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. Enjoy the site of Scottish Highland cows on the property and take advantage of easy access to I-24. A knowledgable farmer is available on-site for guided tours, adding a unique and enriching experience to your stay.

19. The Bolo Club

99%

(35)

14mi from Sewanee · 60 sites · Tents · Sherwood, TN

Our grandparents moved to the farm on Little Crow Creek on September 27, 1927 from up in Sinking Cove. They had six children with our dad, Charlie Jr., being one of them. Charlie Stubblefield Sr. was a very interesting man with a wide curiosity in just about anything that had to do with history, Indian artifacts, Civil War, fossils, oral history, religion and more. Therefore, the small museum on the property next to the pavilion is dedicated to our grandfather. Charlie Sr. and our grandmother served as Justices of the Peace for over 30 years. Further, our grandmother was the backbone of the family, and was a gracious lady with a special personality to handle the rigors of the day; we miss them both very much. The area has many interesting stories and legacies of characters of yesterday and today. Visiting The Bolo Club will be like stepping back in time to a slower pace where hopefully you will be able to enjoy the atmosphere and spirit of the farm.Learn more about this land:The Bolo Club has a unique combination of accommodations and activities, making it the perfect getaway. You owe it to yourself, so take the time to slow down, relax, and enjoy the sights, sounds, and atmosphere where country meets comfort! We have every type of camping you could ask for, from pitching your tent by the running creek to glamping it in The Lodge.

20. Synousia

100%

(2)

43mi from Sewanee · 50 sites · Tents, RVs · Pikeville, TN

Synousia is a Hipcamp Gem years in the making! We hosted a beautiful little 4 acre Hipcamp in CA for years, and sold to buy this 250 acre magickal property in the Appalachian Mountains of Tennessee, just 20 minutes from Fall Creek Falls, Tennessee's most beautiful State Park. Our property is one of a kind. We are on high ground, which means the bugs are not bad, and the views are amazing! We have amazing views of the Sequatchie Valley. We have the most incredible rock formations, some are huge, it’s our favorite part of the land. We have an amazing swimming hole with a huge flat rock right next to it for the most relaxing swimming days! We have 3 beautiful creeks that join at the bottom of the property with a small swimming hole where they join. The creeks have incredible rocks throughout, and are somewhat challenging places to hike, but absolutely beautiful to hike up and down. We have over 20 miles of roads and trails that are amazing for walking, hiking, and horseback riding. There are almost endless areas close to us for ATV riding, so we ask our guests to ride off property to keep our place peaceful. We don’t mind noise from a happy gathering or people playing but we try and keep machine noise down to a minimum. We have places for any type of camping, from backpack camping to Motorhomes, but at the moment we do not have hookups and limited on gravel rv areas, but many off gravel areas. The property has every type of wildlife Tennessee has to offer. Please be kind to our wildlife and don’t feed them. We have extensive cave systems from natural to old coal mine caves. There are endless dangers to these caves, from collapsing, to gases, and others… we ask you to enjoy looking from the outside and don’t go adventuring in. We are fun easy going people, and we ask our guests to be the same. We love to have a good time, we just ask that our guests respect the land, and our other guests, and leave the place better than you found it. We are so happy to meet you and hope you make the best memories!

Camper favorites near Sewanee

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

The Cynefin Luxury Safari Tent

95%

(47)

47mi from Sewanee · 1 site · Lodging · Mentone, AL

About this space We invite you to our little slice of paradise! Enjoy the natural beauty of Lookout Mountain in Mentone, AL. Folklore Forest has 270 feet of Little River Frontage for you to enjoy. Considered to be the purest, natural flowing river in the state, bring your fishing gear and kayaks. Listen to Pipwild Spring trickling over the mossy rock waterfall. Sit at the water’s edge under canopies of rhododendrons and holly trees, and sit at your campfire and view the stunning starry nightscape. The space Our 10x12 foot canvas safari tent offers a cozy 120 sq ft of space which can accommodate a twin size mattress in addition to the provided queen bed. Here's what you find inside: - Queen size bed with headboard, memory foam mattress, and antimicrobial waterproof cover. - Comforter, 4 pillows (with antimicrobial covers), and furry blanket. - Side table with reading material and games. - Wood camp stove (for heating the tent on chilly nights or cooking). - Heat powered stove fan. - Bundle of camp stove sized firewood. - Mr Heater propane space heater with 30 lb propane tank. - 6 person Coleman pop up tent. - Yoga Mat - Cart with coffee, silverware, plates, cups, bowls, French press, salt/pepper, sugar, kitchen and grill utensils, cutting board, and oven mitt. - Butane camp stove with fuel. - Battery powered fan/light combination. - Portable battery powered lantern. - Cast iron skillet, non stick skillet, medium sauce pan, small wok, and kettle. - 3 wash tubs. - Handmade broom. - 1 person hammock. Here's what you'll find outside: - agon to help you bring luggage down from the car or to gather firewood. - 6ft picnic table. - Cafe table and two chairs. - 2 Adirondack chairs. - Combination fire pit/grill. - Solar powered cafe lights. - Solar shower. - Camp toilet with bags and Absorbent Gel Liquid Waste Gelling and Deodorizing Powder - Trash can and trash bags. - 5 gallon Coleman water cooler. You need to bring: - Towels and rags - Food - Toilet paper and paper products - Bug spray for summer months. Also recommended to bring: - Ice or dry ice - Extra wood (you can burn any fallen wood/twigs you find but don’t cut trees! - Extra water (river water is pure but we always recommend boiling or filtering anything you drink) Guest access Folklore Forest is on 3 acres and has 270 feet of River Frontage at your disposal. Little River is considered to be the purest, natural flowing river in the state. Bring your fishing gear and kayaks. Sit on the rocks at the base of the waterfall under the rhododendrons and holly trees, and wade in the water in the warm months. Park on the side of the road in front of the Cynefin sign. There are solar lights illuminating the path to the tent if you arrive after dark. There you will find a that you can use to bring your luggage down. Other things to note • The river will rise and fall depending on how much rain we are getting. It tends to be lower late summer to early fall. We cannot guarantee water levels. • This is primitive off grid camping. There's no electricity or running water. We recommend bringing a portable battery pack to charge devices. • Please be respectful of any wildlife (there are white tail deer, raccoons, weasels, harmless black snakes, mink, foxes, coyotes, many birds, and the extremely, and we do mean extremely, rare black bear), while fishing in the little river is allowed, hunting is prohibited.

Maclellan Island- An Urban Oasis

92%

(57)

37mi from Sewanee · 2 sites · Tents · Chattanooga, TN

YOU MUST PROVIDE WATERCRAFT OF SOME KIND TO GET TO MACLELLAN ISLAND! Maclellan Island is a unique 18.8-acre wildlife sanctuary situated in the middle of the Tennessee River, in the heart of downtown Chattanooga. It is accessible by water only. The island is home to a great diversity of plants, animals, and birds. Campers can enjoy easy wildlife viewing in a true urban wilderness setting. Muskrats, geese, and kingfishers can be seen feeding at the water’s edge, while the forest is home to songbirds, turkeys, raccoons, owls, possums, foxes, and woodpeckers. It's a great place to quietly watch nesting osprey and great-blue heron as well as an important feeding area for migrating warblers. IMPORTANT: Maclellan Island is accessible by boat ONLY. You will need to provide your own transportation to and from the island, either using your own boat or by renting a kayak/SUP from a local outfitter. We recommend renting kayaks from L2 Outdoors who launches from Coolidge Park. Maclellan Island’s earliest inhabitants were Indigenous People whose island community was likely an extension or suburb of Citico, a nearby village. Farmed in the 1800’s and early 1900’s, the island was plowed for many years and largely free of the trees which shade it today. Floods have covered the island from time to time and drove away numerous early settlers including one early farmer, Abel Kesterson, who survived rising waters in 1867 only by holding onto the horns of his cow as they swam to safety. The island eventually passed through the hands of several prominent companies as well as a number of more rambunctious inhabitants. Finally in 1954 Maclellan Island was donated to the Chattanooga Audubon Society by Robert J. Maclellan for preservation as a wildlife refuge. If you'll be arriving by a motorized boat, you will need to use a public boat ramp. The closest one is at the Tennessee River Park. Coolidge Park has a kayak/canoe/SUP launch and you can park cars in their parking lot overnight for a fee.

St. Isidore Farm

94%

(34)

15mi from Sewanee · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Hillsboro, TN

Nestled in the corner of a serene field, this RV campsite offers stunning views of peaceful pastures and is located near our barn. The full service, pull through sites are set on a gentle sloping knoll, providing a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere. Enjoy the site of Scottish Highland cows on the property and take advantage of easy access to I-24. A knowledgable farmer is available on-site for guided tours, adding a unique and enriching experience to your stay.

The Bolo Club

99%

(35)

14mi from Sewanee · 60 sites · Tents · Sherwood, TN

Our grandparents moved to the farm on Little Crow Creek on September 27, 1927 from up in Sinking Cove. They had six children with our dad, Charlie Jr., being one of them. Charlie Stubblefield Sr. was a very interesting man with a wide curiosity in just about anything that had to do with history, Indian artifacts, Civil War, fossils, oral history, religion and more. Therefore, the small museum on the property next to the pavilion is dedicated to our grandfather. Charlie Sr. and our grandmother served as Justices of the Peace for over 30 years. Further, our grandmother was the backbone of the family, and was a gracious lady with a special personality to handle the rigors of the day; we miss them both very much. The area has many interesting stories and legacies of characters of yesterday and today. Visiting The Bolo Club will be like stepping back in time to a slower pace where hopefully you will be able to enjoy the atmosphere and spirit of the farm.Learn more about this land:The Bolo Club has a unique combination of accommodations and activities, making it the perfect getaway. You owe it to yourself, so take the time to slow down, relax, and enjoy the sights, sounds, and atmosphere where country meets comfort! We have every type of camping you could ask for, from pitching your tent by the running creek to glamping it in The Lodge.

Synousia

100%

(2)

43mi from Sewanee · 50 sites · Tents, RVs · Pikeville, TN

Synousia is a Hipcamp Gem years in the making! We hosted a beautiful little 4 acre Hipcamp in CA for years, and sold to buy this 250 acre magickal property in the Appalachian Mountains of Tennessee, just 20 minutes from Fall Creek Falls, Tennessee's most beautiful State Park. Our property is one of a kind. We are on high ground, which means the bugs are not bad, and the views are amazing! We have amazing views of the Sequatchie Valley. We have the most incredible rock formations, some are huge, it’s our favorite part of the land. We have an amazing swimming hole with a huge flat rock right next to it for the most relaxing swimming days! We have 3 beautiful creeks that join at the bottom of the property with a small swimming hole where they join. The creeks have incredible rocks throughout, and are somewhat challenging places to hike, but absolutely beautiful to hike up and down. We have over 20 miles of roads and trails that are amazing for walking, hiking, and horseback riding. There are almost endless areas close to us for ATV riding, so we ask our guests to ride off property to keep our place peaceful. We don’t mind noise from a happy gathering or people playing but we try and keep machine noise down to a minimum. We have places for any type of camping, from backpack camping to Motorhomes, but at the moment we do not have hookups and limited on gravel rv areas, but many off gravel areas. The property has every type of wildlife Tennessee has to offer. Please be kind to our wildlife and don’t feed them. We have extensive cave systems from natural to old coal mine caves. There are endless dangers to these caves, from collapsing, to gases, and others… we ask you to enjoy looking from the outside and don’t go adventuring in. We are fun easy going people, and we ask our guests to be the same. We love to have a good time, we just ask that our guests respect the land, and our other guests, and leave the place better than you found it. We are so happy to meet you and hope you make the best memories!

Smooth Rapids

89%

(36)

35mi from Sewanee · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Mc Minnville, TN

PLEASE READ ENTIRE DESCRIPTION: Located at 245 Durham St in McMinnville, the property covers 8 acres with frontage on the Barren Fork River. There is river access directly behind Smooth Rapids Grill and a short walk from the campground. We sell fire wood. We have a climate controlled bathhouse on site with restrooms and hot showers. Tent sites 14,15,16,17, and 18 have regular 15 amp electrical hookups. The other tent sites are primitive. Travel Trailers and RVs will not fit in tent sites. Camper Vans or Small Pop Up Campers can use tent sites as long as the electrical consumption does not exceed 15 amps. All of RV sites have 30/50 amp electrical and water hookups. There is a dump station near the entrance to the campground for gray and black tanks. RV dump service is available for a fee if you would rather us handle that for you. Learn more about this land: There’s river frontage for fishing or kayaking. We have a full service restaurant on site. Plenty of trees for shade and hammocks. Minutes from Cumberland Caverns, Rock Island State Park, and ISHA. 50+ miles of Class 1 moving water in the county perfect for kayaking with shuttle service to access points available. VERY IMPORTANT DISCLOSURE: We are a small campground that is centered around our kayaking business and restaurant. During our peak season (Weekends in May, June, July, and August and the three key summer holidays Memorial Day, 4th of July. and Labor Day), there will be heavy activity on the campground. Our kayakers park their cars and fill up the common areas until 5 PM then the common areas empty out for the night. Those nights also come with somewhat of a "party" atmosphere. We're kid friendly, but be aware of those peak times. Any other time of the year, it's mostly quiet and half full at best. We don't get negative reviews often, but when we do 99.9% of the time it's on a weekend in the summer or a holiday weekend. We want to set accurate expectations. If you're expecting RV resort type with tons of privacy, this will not be for you

Forest Pocket near Chattanooga

88%

(60)

39mi from Sewanee · 1 site · Tent, RV · Chattanooga, TN

Learn more about this land:A little pocket of forest near downtown Chattanooga... A small spot with a fire pit has been cleared out and ready to pitch a tent. Primitive camping, just a spot in the woods and a fire pit. This spot is really close to downtown, about 5 miles. City noises can occasionally be heard but it is otherwise really peaceful spot. Private and surrounded by trees; You can camp deeper in the forest if you desire. There are no utilities or tent... just a spot to pitch your tent and beware of mosquitoes, Tennessee mosquitoes are something else....

Bird Fork Farm

100%

(5)

33mi from Sewanee · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Dunlap, TN

Bird Fork Farm is a small regenerative farm located on 55 acres. Enjoy camping in one of the numerous spots in the beautiful pasture or pop into the woods to find the perfect hammock spot. With easy access, take a stroll through the orchard, woods, or pasture or venture to one of the numerous state parks nearby. Guests have access to an off-grid composting toilet and rainwater-fed handwashing facility as well as a 10x15 lean-to for shade, cooking, or hanging out. There are so many incredible things to do nearby! There is a fantastic swimming hole about 10 minutes down a dirt road from the farm. If you're into climbing this area is well known for its climbing destinations including Woodcock Cove. Savage Gulf State Park and Fall Creek Falls State Park are located within 30 minutes of the farm. The Isha Yoga Institute is about 10 mins away. The Sequatchie Valley is 10 mins down the mountain. Chattanooga is approximately 45 mins SE while McMinnville is about 30 mins NW. The Caverns, a wonderful music venue is about 40 mins away. Nashville is approximately 1hr 45mins NW.

Public campgrounds near Sewanee

100%

(5)

Tims Ford Campground

19mi from Sewanee · 72 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tims Ford State Park

96%

(34)

Fall Creek Falls Campground

45mi from Sewanee · 268 sites · Tents, RVs · in Fall Creek Falls State Park

92%

(6)

Harrison Bay Campground

46mi from Sewanee · 149 sites · Tents, RVs · in Harrison Bay State Park

Stories from the community

D

Desirae

1 week ago

With pets

1 night at The Falls at Sewanee Creek

We only stayed one night at the tent but loved every minute! Grant called before we arrived to give us directions to the site so we would be prepared when we arrived in the dark. Everything was easy to find, just as he said. The trampoline was more comfortable than we expected! Bring extra towels in case of condensation. The area under the trampoline was perfect for food prep and hanging out. Above all, the waterfall was BEAUTIFUL! The short “hike” from the tent to the falls was easy for us and our German Shepherd to navigate. We had a wonderful time- can’t wait to return!

Maggi

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Fireside Camp + Lodge

Lovely space, quiet and peaceful! It was just what I needed for a good night’s sleep.

M

Mariana

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Synousia

We loved staying here and meeting Buddy and his family. Beautiful and peaceful. Buddy is an A+ host. Very responsive and attentive. We’ll definitely be back!

C

Cadden

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to South Suckcreek Campground

Best spot in Chattanooga. Please take your trash with you

K

Kurt

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Fireside Camp + Lodge

Nice place left in morning deer ran out hand hit my car so be careful driving. Will be back

S

Sam

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to South Suckcreek Campground

Sites are nicely spread out. Quiet and beautiful property. Our site was spacious enough to spread a few tents out, and the neighboring sites were far enough away as to not be a disruption.

Josh

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Solace Farm Homestead

Loved our time at Solace Farm! A very peaceful property with a wonderful agricultural operation going on. You can tell the family pours their hearts into what they do! We booked a "Junior Farm Tour" and enjoyed our time walking around the farm with the kids as we learned about the animals, gardens, etc. The Meadow Site has a great sunset view - secluded and peaceful!

Mike

2 weeks ago

26 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to River Life RV Resort

I love this campground. The benefits are numerous starting with the location to Nooga, the clean water of the river, farm fresh eggs right down the street, and last but not least, a wolf on sentry. Seriously, Ava is super sweet and the rest of the pack are apparently super social as well. The hosts are proud of their campground with good reason. There's a lot to offer here! Have fun with the time zones! Honestly, that kept us on our toes!

M

Maggie

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at Elk Head Overlook

Beautiful view. I really think #1 is the best way to go if you can rent that one. Renting both would probably be the best experience because they are kind of close together. Host responsive and nice!!

K

Katie

3 weeks ago

23 ft Class C

With pets

2 nights at Fireside Camp + Lodge

LOVED this campsite! As soon as we showed up we added another night lol We have been on the road for about 2 weeks and it was one of my favorite stops. We’re traveling in a 23ft converted school bus and had zero problems finding the property and picking a spot. The property is beautiful and comes with some great amenities including water fill up :) would for sure stay again!

A

Abdulaleem

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to South Suckcreek Campground

Everything was great fire pit available. Easy to find the spot.

M

Megan

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Fireside Camp + Lodge

This space was absolutely perfect for hosting my friends and I for tent camping! The ability to put food in their fridge was big help. The site is close to beautiful waterfall hiking trails (less than 10 minutes away from trailheads) so we didn't have to go far to enjoy nature. The port-a-potty/shower facilities are nothing fancy but available and for a night, were perfectly sufficient. Would recommend and utilize again!

n

natasha

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Elk Head Overlook

We absolutely enjoyed this hidden gem! The view is breathtaking! Perfect spot for stargazing. We definitely planning on coming back.

D

Dwayne

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Elk Head Overlook

Very beautiful spot. Sonya was very nice. I would go bk one day. Thanks.

Angela

3 weeks ago

40 ft fifth wheel

With pets

3 nights at Fireside Camp + Lodge

Off the beaten path and just a few miles from the state park. Open field area, we had our pick of any site with a fire ring. We enjoyed a fire each night and were present for the Beaver Moon. Outdoor shower with hot water was appreciated after we used up all our fresh water.

Magical indoor/outdoor sleeping space optimized for sounds of the waterfall.

D

Dale

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to The Falls at Sewanee Creek

A magical setting, fun and unique "treehouse", stunning views and hikes. We will be back!

S

Stan

November 2025

19 ft pop-up camper

1 night at South Suckcreek Campground

Accurate directions. Good spots. Private. Would definitely stay there again.

J

Jay

November 2025

21 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Fireside Camp + Lodge

Parked my truck camper in the grass and had a very peaceful night. Big area with a few other campers but lots of room for people to spread out. Not noisy at all and great conversation with other campers! Great covered area with a fridge and games. Would definitely stay here again.

C

Carissa

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hammock’Sway Private Off Grid Camp

Chris’s place was so much fun! The creek provided endless entertainment for the kids, and tranquil vibes for us all. The pine forest behind the camp was also the perfect place for our hammocks and many games of hide and seek. There was a fire ring at the campsite and plenty of soft grassy spots for our tents. We also had some of the fresh eggs in the morning that were delicious. We can’t wait to come back.