The best camping near Cheatham Lock and Dam

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Cheatham Lock and Dam adventure.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Cheatham Lock and Dam

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Peaceful Hills Retreat Campground

34 sites · RVs, Tents97 acres · Centerville, TN
Peaceful Hills Retreat 390 American Way Centerville, TN 37033 (Pleasantville) Looking for the perfect getaway, you will find some peace and quiet here! Only 14.6 miles from I-40 and located on 97 acres, this campground is surrounded by nature, very secluded and private. There is a crystal-clear creek that runs parallel with the driveway and fresh spring water flowing from pipe in the rock close to the entrance on American Way. The creek is bio-diverse, filled with fascinating species, and spring fed, which means it stays cool in the summertime. There are three beautiful homes which are able to be rented out as well. The A-frame log cabin at the top of the hill is called the lodge. The second home, which is a two-story brown log cabin, is where the host lives. The third home is the cottage. Long before these three homes were built, native Indians lived in these beautiful rolling hills and we have found many arrowheads right around the homes on this property. This is a special place and we are happy and honored to share it with you! Peaceful Hills Retreat, a family owned business, started in May of 2017. It all began when Jennifer’s brilliant brother booked a two-story home through Airbnb for Jennifer and the family for a week in the Carolinas. Their Airbnb vacation was a great experience, and she loved having a kitchen to cook in, while traveling with her large family. She gladly said goodbye to tiny hotel rooms. Linda and her daughter, Jennifer realized they desired to run a BnB, and watched the scattered pieces beautifully fall into place. Peaceful Hills Retreat is also a wedding venue. There are three beautiful spots for a lovely outdoor wedding. The waterfall site is a favorite. The lodge is a beautiful place for the reception to take place outdoors and the Honeymoon Cottage makes for the perfect getaway afterwards. At each home you may read a special book called A Soldier’s Child Foundation (ASC). This life-changing, wonderful foundation near Nashville, serves children all over our great nation who have sadly lost a parent who served in our military. ASC tremendously helped Jennifer’s family after the loss of their military soldier and Peaceful Hills Retreat donates a portion of their profits to this amazing non-profit. A Soldier’s Child Foundation removed the shame and sadness from our loss and replaced it with hope, honor. and love. A portion of our increase at Peaceful Hills Retreat goes to serve this cause to help other families. To learn more, to donate or to get involved, please visit: asoldierschild.org. If you have any other questions or if you need anything at all during your stay, please text us and we'll be happy to help. Hope to see you soon!
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Lionsgate Campground

4 sites · Lodging, Tents48 acres · Bon Aqua Junction, TN
Enjoy glamping in our optional 2017 19' retro style camper with a bathroom and kitchen or go primitive and set up your tent or hammock by the waterfalls and rough it. 2 sites have electricity. No bathrooms or showers if you're roughing it. Just 35 minutes west of Loveless Cafe' in Nashville and 20 minutes south of the Dickson exit at I40. The 48 acre campground has just 3 big tent sites for more seclusion and is almost all old forest with wide trails and huge old growth trees. There is about a 1/2 acre of field to park in between the road and the creek if you don't have an off road vehicle. The rest is woods. Mother Nature has a lot to offer when you cross the creek into the first two campsites that are on the 30' creek. One big spring runs through the middle of the 2 sites with small cascading waterfalls. Both sites have string lights and 120V extension cords. These two sites are separated by the driveway and about 150' apart but a bridge connects the two if you have another couple that wants to join you these two spots are perfect for privacy and companionship. Expand the pictures to a full screen as you scroll so the description will show up at the bottom of the picture. Not all pictures are on the property but describe close places to visit as well. FIREWOOD: Split wood is available upon request and sold in the area (if it's available at the time) or any fallen dead wood from the forest is free. $7.00 for a 20" bundle. Please let us know ahead of time or order it on the site. SITE ONE: The nicer of the two sites along the creek, has granite counters, a round fire pit with a fold down heavy cooking grate, charcoal grill and a large wrought iron table and chairs. RENT A CAMPER WITH SITE 1 or BRING YOUR PERSONAL CAMPER: Our retro style 2017 option on the other side of the creek with stairs and stones to cross the creek. 30 amp. 240 and 120 volt plugs. Click on additional fees for camper electrical hook up. SITE TWO: Also along side the 30' creek. There is a round steel fire pit surrounded with wrought iron chairs, a separate picnic table, granite countertop work space and a small grill. 2 flat areas for tents. Set your chairs in the creek in front of your site. The clear cold water is a great place to relax and cool off or watch crawfish, minnows and salamanders and the occasional blue herron. 120V and string lights. SITE THREE: "Still Hollow" is more private and located right in the middle valley of the property where a different spring fed creek runs down the wooded valley. There is no electricity but you can still enjoy the sound of small cascading waterfalls and a creek that runs along the side of the site for a relaxing sleep. There is a granite countertop, charcoal grill and a fire ring. A small round wrought iron table and 4 chairs are there for a place to eat lunch. The old moonshine barrels are still barely standing by the spring. This site is also accessed from the opposite side of the campground on Ben Fly Rd or Greer Rd for the serious off roaders. 4 wheel drive may be necessary but a Hyundai car entered through the creek in 2 wheel drive. It was dry though. STAR GAZING for all 3 sites: There is a cleared area on top of a hill side for stargazing far from the city lights. CHECK IN: Check in can be as early as you like if the present campers have checked out. You can always hang out elsewhere on the property and start your day to explore and hike till they leave. Just let us know in advance. And you can stay all day the day of check out but you may have to pack up and park elsewhere if other campers need the spot. If not. Stay till dark. PHOTOS: EXPAND THE PHOTOS TO A SINGLE VIEW! Some photos are of nearby attractions. You can see the description of each photo and which site is in the picture when you expand them. VEHICLE TYPE AND PARKING: In order to drive up into the campsite, you may need a 4x4 vehicle but definitely need ground clearance. If you do not have a 4x4 vehicle or ground clearance, that is okay, park in the field and bring your water shoes for campsite 2. There are stairs and rocks to cross over to Site 1. Stepping stones for site 2 are coming soon. LOCAL ACTIVITIES: OFF ROAD ADVENTURE! TOUR THE AREA IN A CAN-AM: Check out 'Fisher's Off Road' to rent a really nice 4 seater CAN-AM machine. Drive around the local dirt roads for miles and learn the history of Moon Shine Alley, drive through many creeks and see some beautiful views. We took to tour with Fisher and it was a blast. https://www.fishersoffroadrentals.com/ This company supports the locals and cleans up the trash on the sides of the roads; a great service to the area. FISHING: https://www.fishingworks.com/tennessee/maury-tn/lake/hooker-chemical-pond-d/ 30 minutes away are 3 small lakes, or very large ponds. I think it costs $5.00. They have small boats for rent as well. FISHING, KAYAKING AND CANOEING: PINEY RIVER Canoe rental: https://www.pinewoodcanoecamp.com/ Great fishing, floating and they have camping as well. OTHER CAMPING OPTIONS: Fisheroffroadrentals also has a Hipcamp site. PINEY RIVER GLAMPING: https://www.campspot.com/book/pineyriverresort Beautiful place on the piney river. Beautiful tiny home cabins, Glamping tents that are amazing. Park your own camper on the river. If you like to meet other campers, this is the place to go.
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The Bluffs At Tumbling Creek

1 site · RV, Tent9 acres · Hurricane Mills, TN
Welcome to Tumbling Creek Bluffs Private Campground! Nestled in the serene landscape of Tennessee, our campground offers a complete RV hookup with water, electricity, and sewage facilities. Set against the backdrop of the majestic bluffs of Tumbling Creek, guests can indulge in fishing, swimming, and leisurely moments by the water's edge at our secluded campground. Our covered deck provides an ideal spot for family meals, and with campfires under the stars, there are endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Tumbling Creek Bluffs Campground invites you to savor the best of nature and relaxation in one unforgettable setting, all while enjoying complete privacy. While in the area, guests can explore the nearby historic ranch of Loretta Lynn, offering tours of Loretta Lynn's Plantation Home, visits to the museum, and much more. Discover the charm of Tumbling Creek Bluffs and create lasting memories in the heart of nature.
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$75
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Sacred Dog Ranch

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres · Fairview, TN
Our sanctuary is a special piece of history and a regenerative farm where living soil and pollinator banks combat climate change and revive the eco-system ! The cabin we live in was built in 1797 - which we have preserved and upgraded with fantastic antique decor, Rock N Roll flare and cutting edge street art. We encourage art, music and nature crafting! We take great pride in providing a magical creative space that is welcome to earthlings of all stripes! The June blooms are exceptional and the butterflies’ will delight... you will leave a little piece of your heart here on the farm❤️🐝🐶🧚‍♀️ Horse Back Riding available!
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$50
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Camp Nashville Highland Rim

9 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Goodlettsville, TN
Primitive camping near Nashville at a secluded hilltop nestled in a hardwood forest. Flat areas for tents, trees for hammocks, car / van camping. Drive to site. Choose favorite of multiple unique sites upon arrival. First arrive, first choice of available camping spaces. Sites are not numbered or pre-assigned. Camping guests supply camping gear. Amenities: 2 community water hydrants, community vault toilet, fire pit at each site. Firewood bundles available for additional fee. Outdoor hot water heater for shower Apr-Oct, except freezing temperatures. Kid friendly. No extra charge for children. (check to be sure not charged for children if selecting +x). Pets permitted under owner supervision, campfires allowed, Please do not leave trash. Trash policy is carry in / carry out with you for disposal. Camping location north of downtown Nashville on a ridge at a higher elevation overlooking Nashville. Camp away from noisy highways, convenient to I65 and multiple amenities, grocery stores, restaurants, coffee shops . 5 miles from three I65 exits. 14 miles from I24. 18 miles from I40. 18 miles from Nashville downtown riverfront. Uber or Lyft to Nashville available. Quiet hours after 10PM. If you're hanging out or arriving after 10PM.... keep it quiet for guests turning in by 10PM.
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$35
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Flora and Fauna Camp

10 sites · RVs, Tents102 acres · Tennessee, TN
Once a place where Whisky was made under prohibition, the regulators came and bashed down the stills that are still standing along the stream banks. This area was a bulwark for natives that hunted and fished along the stream banks, and there's artifacts that can still can be observed along the canyon where hikers can enjoy. Learn more about this land:Get away from the city and hike where others would love to hike yet have no access to! There's a lot to be discovered at Flora and Fauna Camp! Discover the canyon, stream, and much more!  It's blackberry season from June through the beginning of July, so if you'd like to pick blackberries that's a perfect time!
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$24
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Rewilding in East Nashville

3 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Nashville, TN
Rewild in the city, surrounded by 8 ft artistic concrete sculpture walls. Stay for an hour, or stay for 24 hours. Pitch a tent or your hammock for overnight meditation sessions (6-10 hours, self directed). Be one with the bamboo and the resident dogs: Rox a Million and Douglas Bear (who are usually naked). Rhythm Bird, the resident artist and host is usually topless and soaking up the sunshine as well. Things to Note: Clothing optional Alcohol allowed with responsibility Flushing toilet and sink available in the patio (1/2 bathroom) personal hot tub and hot shower available outdoors Fire pit & wood available for your fire medicine or campfire cooking Zero gravity lounge chairs available for sun and moon bathing Stores and Restaurants: There is a brewery and pizzeria behind the monastery (Smith and Lentz) Restaurants and food courts (Koi, Hunters Station, The Wash, Butcher and Bee, Hawkers, Joyland) Convenient stores and alcohol stores a block away, and grocery stores (turnip truck, aldi, kroger within a few minutes drive) Activities: From time to time there are community jam sessions, drum circles, full moon hot baths, ice baths that occur on property. If you’re here for the scheduled activities, you will be informed ahead of your booking and invited! Neighbors/Voyeurs: 2 properties over, there is a 3 story airbnb that can see into the sanctuary. You don’t have to change your behavior, just be aware of voyeurs. :) No-No: No drugs, smoking and vaping allowed on site ~ you can go to the alley, or your car.
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$60
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Piccolo Farms Paradise Valley

1 site · RV, Tent9 acres · Whites Creek, TN
8 rolling acres of peace and tranquility 15 short minutes from downtown Nashville. Come stay at Piccolo Farms Animal Sanctuary’s Paradise Valley location, a working sanctuary with active pastures filled with goats, sheep, a donkey and even a few special pigs. Enjoy the stars, a camp fire, outdoor bar and entertainment space, or request an Uber/Lyft and enjoy access to all the restaurants, music, bars and entertainment Nashville has to offer…just a quick 15 min drive away … or stay put, and enjoy an evening filled with stars and sweet sounds of bleating goat or sheep as they hunker down for bed. There is a gas grill, washer/dryer, and a full sized refrigerator available for use if needed. We are located in Whites Creek Tennessee with food and live music just a mile or so up the road in Joelton if you are looking for alternatives to the hustle and bustle of downtown.
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$55
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I 40 Hideaway

34 sites · Lodging, Tents26 acres · Waverly, TN
We are located on 26 Acres in the Tennessee woods next to Cuba Landing Marina on the Tennessee River. When you book a Cabin, RV, Tent site or The House please be able to arrive before 8pm. We do not accept people after hours. We have both Tent camping in the woods and sites within the RV Park. Camp fires have to be kept small. NO BON FIRES. Hope to see you soon. Management
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Brand'n Iron Hills

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Dover, TN
40 acres Located in beautiful Dover TN 5 miles from Lake Barkley & the Cumberland River. Conveniently located a few miles from town, far enough that it is quiet, but close enough that it is not a long trip to town. The property features a variety of thriving wildlife due to our fresh water stream that gently flows through the property year round. The stream is roughly ankle to hip deep depending on the area. The water is crystal clear and safe to play in if you have little ones. Walk along the stream and discover all kinds of fish, turtles, beautiful river stones and possibly see a beaver or 2. If you have Archery equipment, you can use our Archery Range. The property is split by a 2 lane road. 7 acres to the North and 33 acres to the South. The smaller side is flat with many trails, fresh water stream and a gravel road. It features relatively junior trees and is home to a family of Whitetail Deer. The Southern side of the property features a mature hardwood forest full of giant white oak trees. Be sure to put on your hiking boots though, because there's a few Hills to climb. Three hills that form a beautiful valley in the center, with another fresh waterstream. The valley was once home to a 1700s settlement, so you may find some artifacts. (We just ask that you leave them where you find them.) Main trails are marked clearly with large reflectors for safety. With the near-by wildlife refuge you are sure to see and hear a variety of wildlife. We have large steel firepits in every campsite. So feel free to bring your own firewood! Enjoy a good book or nap while relaxing in a hammock. Swing with a loved one while over looking the fresh water stream. Walk down along the stream and collect rocks, feed the fish, or go for a dip! Currently our property is very Primative, whichever there is no electricity or plumbing. We do offer clean composting toilets & a locking gate at night for your security. **Cellular service is limited in some areas. Signal can be found by the road, or cross the road and take the trail up the 1st hill**
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$30
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Benjamin's RV Sanctuary

1 site · RV3 acres · Franklin, TN
Accessible from either I40, I65 or the Natchez Trace Parkway in scenic Franklin, TN come unwind and relax after a long day on the road. Pull your RV onto a cement pad surrounded by 3 acres of lush green splendor, uncork a bottle and let your dog roam. Owners Ruth and Chef Robert live onsite and are happy to prepare culinary meals to your liking under the stars (call for menu and separate pricing). The play area 3 Dwarf Goats and chickens are in the back of the property and make for a unique, fun time for children and adults as well! If you're rested and ready to explore, the Sanctuary is a quick drive to nearby trailheads, historic sites, distilleries and cafes. Have a road bike? The Sanctuary is directly on one of the best scenic bike routes! This 3 acre property is nestled in the quiet area of Franklin Tennessee, near Historic Leipers Fork and only 20 miles from Downtown Nashville.
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$62
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Hidden Timbers Homestead

1 site · RV7 acres · Coopertown, TN
Hidden Timbers Homestead is a 7 acre campground retreat just 25 minutes outside the city of Nashville. With its open space and tall trees, it’s a private getaway still close to the action. The easy access and gravel roads give way to covered camping spots and quiet slips. The property also serves as a working homestead in its early years of development. On any given day you may be accompanied on your walks by our farm dogs or a chicken or two. Here you’ll find peace. It’s our goal that you leave revived and refreshed after hiding away for a few days on the homestead.
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$60
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The best camping near Cheatham Lock and Dam guide

Overview

About

When the temperature rises, you know what to do. Get in a body of water, stat! Whether you choose swimming or boating, let the waters of Cheatham Lake be your path to chillaxing. While you’re there, you probably want to check out the Cheatham Lock, where you can witness boats being lifted 26 feet up from the river below the dam, to the lake above the dam. Now that’s not something you see everyday! With numerous opportunities for hiking, hunting, and camping in the area, you might as well stay a while and really find your groove in the waters and woods. The best part is that this is all located only 32 miles outside of Nashville, TN. City-dwellers, those boats aren’t going to drive themselves. Just go already!

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