Camping in Tims Ford State Park

100% (5 reviews)

Top camping in Tims Ford State Park

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

1. Tims Ford Campground

100%

(5)

72 sites · RVs, Tents · In Tims Ford State Park

After a dip in the reservoir, you’ll be glad to come back to one of the park’s 52 campsites

100% (5 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Tims Ford State Park adventure.

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Community favorites near Tims Ford State Park

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Stories from the community

Diana

4 days ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Greeter Falls Campground

We stayed in yurt #21 during our weekend visit and we loved it. The area was nice and clean including the bathrooms. The only negative would be that the yurts are too close together and if you get some loud neighbors like we did on our last night then it can get annoying 😑 but overall we enjoyed our stay😊

Weekend Trip to Greeter Falls Campground

A wonderful, clean, and cozy place surrounded by nature. The host was 10/10, very kind in every way. We will definitely return to this place.

Angel

1 week ago

1 night at The Falls at Sewanee Creek

We had an amazing stay! We cannot say enough good things about the warm welcome and hospitality we received. Our site was absolutely peaceful and beautiful. Hearing the waterfall at night, mixed with seeing all the fireflies, was magical. We will definitely be back!

3 nights at The Falls at Sewanee Creek

I loved every aspect of the Millers area! We stayed in the eco container but I truly can’t wait to go back and try some of the other unique and one of a kind spaces he built in other areas of their property! We also did the welding class and walked away with a truly special piece of art. 10/10 recommend!!!

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

Jacob

1 week ago

1 night at The Falls at Sewanee Creek

The treehouse is very private, the sound of the waterfall was nice to enjoy when sitting on the back porch, you can’t see the waterfall from the treehouse, but you can hike down to it. The AC and shower in the treehouse are great

Weekend Trip to Greeter Falls Campground

Great location with easy access to amazing hiking trails.

Cole

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to The Falls at Sewanee Creek

Our stay at the Eco-cabin was amazing. Grant is an amazing host, and the waterfall was fantastic. Thank you to the Millers!

Ash

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to The Falls at Sewanee Creek

My husband and I booked The Glamper for our Honeymoon and it was perfect! We were right next to the waterfall and could see it from the yurt! There is a lot to do in the area. Tons of waterfalls and places to hike! I definitely loved being able to unplug. Take a dip in the waterfalls, go to the nearby bakery and admire The Lords Creation!

Daniel

2 weeks ago

2 nights at The Falls at Sewanee Creek

Grant and Becky’s place was simply AMAZING. Most of the property had some type of alternative style bungalow. The waterfalls, the fairy Forrest, the trails. It was all beautiful. We stood in the treehouse for two nights and had an outstanding time. Highly recommend. Grant has some crazy stories if you get around to talking to him for a while.

2 nights at Elk Head Overlook

My boyfriend, cousin, and I stayed for a couple of nights and it was perfect for what we needed. Gorgeous views and a nice flat spot for parking the little trailer we have.

2 nights at The Falls at Sewanee Creek

Grant & Becky were super friendly & loved taking the time to tell us all about the property. This is a great location & campspot. It was peaceful & quiet with zero noise from the road. We really enjoyed just sitting around listening to the sounds of nature and relaxing.

2 nights at Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground

Everyone was very helpful. The showers and bathrooms were clean. I got a chance to do some laundry as well. If you have a chance to do the cave tour, I would recommend it.

Weekend Trip to Solace Farm Homestead

Quite out of the way place. Peaceful. Woke to a symphony of birds. Enjoyed my stay very much.

1 night at Fireside Camp + Lodge

we enjoyed fireside camp and lodge! the shower was beautiful, the hot water was scalding though even on the lowest setting so we just took cold showers. the picnic table also tipped over on us because we were sitting together on one side of it, so be careful with the picnic tables. everything else was beautiful though

Weekend Trip to Mountain View RV Pad and Tent Site

Beautiful view! We were just passing through with the family.

4 nights at Fireside Camp + Lodge

Easy in and out. The horses are absolutely adorable. I didn't spend much time walking around but the horses are worth the visit. Look for the 2 red wagon wheels.

Liz

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Historic Log Cabin

Beautiful property, wonderful to get away from it all. Unplug and relax. Not far from town. Keith was very kind and knowledgeable.

Weekend Trip to Fireside Camp + Lodge

Easy to access. Lots of spaces to choose from. Quiet. Didn’t use the shower but did use the porta potty, which was nice. Well situated to Foster Falls and Fiery Gizzard trails. Would stay here again!

Weekend Trip to Smooth Rapids

Campground was all around outstanding. Amenities were clean and close to the sites. Other campers respected quiet time. Didn’t have a chance to eat but the restaurant was booming all weekend. I can’t say enough about how phenomenal the management and staff are. They really made our trip that much more special. Thank you so much Smooth Rapids, we can’t wait to be back! Highly recommend 10*

3 nights at River Life RV Resort

We had the most wonderful time at River Life RV Resort. It’s a great place to take in nature’s true beauty. Laura and Delon were the most amazing hosts! We loved that our dogs could be off leash, running around with other dogs on the property. We hope to return again soon!

Top-rated campgrounds near Tims Ford State Park

98%

(636)

The Falls at Sewanee Creek

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents45 acres · Tracy City, TN

45 private acres on our homestead for you to roam. Seven 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. Featuring: * Two gorgeous waterfalls. Each of our stay-sites are located within about 100-150 yards of Fifty-foot tall Miller’s Falls. * A large cave at the end of a short, but rugged hike. * A fairy Village filled with Hollow Oak Tree Fairy homes. The trees 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. It's the Village 2.0 for guests. Or not. Life in the city is OK as long as you can get away frequently. I'm convinced if you love nature and the outdoors, this is the best place to celebrate it.

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(187)

Fireside Camp + Lodge

22 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents22 acres · 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.

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(494)

Hammock’Sway Private Off Grid Camp

24 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents37 acres · 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!

Booked 1 time

Valley View Campground

20 sites · RVs14 acres · Trenton, GA

Welcome to Valley View Campground Nestled in the heart of nature, Valley View Campground is your home away from home. Whether you’re planning a peaceful weekend or a long-term stay, we offer the perfect place to relax, recharge, and reconnect with the outdoors. Our campground features: 20 spacious, full-hookup sites, ideal for RVs of all sizes A scenic loop layout with easy-to-access pull-throughs and back-in sites. A friendly, family-run atmosphere where you’re treated like a neighbor. Complimentary Wi-Fi and garbage service. Valley View is close to Chattanooga, Tennessee. Located nearby popular attractions such as Cloudland Canyon, Rock City, and Ruby Falls. Valley View is great for weekend adventurers, traveling workers, and long-term guests—especially linemen and contractors looking for a comfortable and convenient place. Each site offers a unique view of local hang gliders who often launch nearby and soar overhead. It’s a favorite for guests who enjoy watching the colorful gliders in flight – a peaceful and inspiring touch of adventure right from your campsite. Please note: Our campground is conveniently located close to the freeway for easy access and travel. You may hear some highway and occasional train noise during your stay.

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(98)

Howlin Hill

17 sites · RVs, Tents26 acres · Lewisburg, TN

Primitive, Hammock, Tent camping, and small campers (16ft ish and under only, WITH NO HOOKUPS) at its absolute best! Great riverfront campsites as well as more secluded wooded sites just a short walk away from the riverfront. Howlin' Hill has the best riverfront beach access on this stretch of the gorgeous Duck River. Most of our campsites are shaded by a continuous tree canopy and each site is equipped with a fire pit. We have firewood for sale. Early summertime offers an amazing light show performed by thousands of lightning bugs. Portables and spring fed showers are provided within walking distance from your site. Located just 8 miles from Chapel Hill and Henry Horton State Park, our campgrounds can be reached in under an hour from many of Middle Tennessee’s more urban areas. We do allow early check in as long as the campsite is clear out from previous campers. We are very strict on our speed limit on the property. It is 5 mph for a reason. Please do the requested speed.

97%

(302)

Greeter Falls Campground

47 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents23 acres · Altamont, TN

Welcome to Greeter Falls Campground! Come to Greeter Falls Campground to Retreat, Relax, Be Refreshed and Get Renewed. Greeter Falls Campground is located less than a half mile from the Greeter Falls Trailhead, adjacent to the Sixteen Thousand Acre Savage Gulf State Park offering over Sixty miles of well-marked trails for every skill level. The Two mile Greeter Falls Trail loop connects you to three awe inspiring waterfalls as well as the nearby Blue Hole swimming area. We offer many recreational options to help you enjoy the area including Primitive Tent spots, Furnished Cabins and Yurts (Military Tents) and RV/Travel Trailer sites (each with electrical and water hook-ups). We offer Seventy campsites: Thirty RV Sites: - Eight Premium RV and Travel Trailer Sites - FHU with Septic and "Pull Thru". - Three Regular Pull-Thru Sites (without Septic) - Seven Regular RV Sites with 30/50 Amp Power and Water Hook-Ups - Seven Back-in FHU RV Sites with Septic connection - Five Small FHU Pull-in Sites with 30 Amp Power *Five of the above RV Sites also have Small Private Dog Parks (call for more info). We also have an RV Dump Station on premises, available 24/7. Twenty Lodging Options: -Six Furnished Cabins: 16' x 16' with 8' x 16' porch. Sleeps Four. Bathroom and Kitchenette. Heat & AC, High-Speed Wi-Fi and Television. -Fourteen Furnished Yurts (Glamping) Sites– on Wooden Platforms with Porches: --- Four 11' x 11' Square Military Style Command Tents --- Ten 16' x 16' Square Military Style Squad Tents Twenty Primitive Tent Sites: - Five Primitive Tent Spots – Solo/Duo - Five Primitive Tent Spots – Group/Family - Ten Primitive Tent Spots - Deluxe Group/Family with Water/Power, (Four on Main Campus, 3 with wooden platforms) Each and every one of our camp sites are unique. So, whether you’re looking for a furnished cabin or yurt or want to find THE perfect RV or tenting site, it’s best to reach out to one of our reservation specialists. They will do their best to match your preferences with one of our available sites. out with any questions you may have, we’ll be happy to • Call: 800-MTN-CAMP (800-686-2267) • Text: 931-800-4376 • Email: Camp@GreeterFalls.com Check out our Website: https://greeterfalls.com. Check Our Camper Reviews.

94%

(26)

Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground

132 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Chattanooga, TN

Here in Lookout Valley, you’ll have access to stunning views, top-notch amenities, and dedicated, hardworking staff that provides exceptional hospitality. Whether you’re camping with us, staying in one of our beautiful cabins, or taking a tour of our spectacular caverns, you’ll love the tranquility of our retreat. Experience the wonder of a natural underground world at Raccoon Mountain Caverns! Rated as the #1 ‘Thing To Do’ in Chattanooga on TripAdvisor, with over 5.5 miles of passageways, our caverns boast an incredibly well-preserved landscape filled with countless natural formations. Considered one of the most geologically active caverns in the south, you’ll be amazed by the beauty that surrounds you. Don’t miss out on this adventure!

83%

(307)

Running Water Creek

23 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Guild, TN

Running Water Creek is a unique, fully off grid campground just 20 minutes to downtown Chattanooga. We have 80+ campsites spread out over 120 acres. Most of the roads are accessible in any small car, but some roads require 4x4 (they're marked with a sign). We have a bath house with toilets, showers, and sinks and even offer hot water! Our well and cabins are all solar powered as we are not on the electric grid. Some info about the property: -we DO NOT have water or power hookups -we have gravel roads with a 5 MPH speed limit on the property (if you drive too fast the roads will seem rough) -we are right next to a highway and train tracks so there will be some noise (some days are better than others and we have no way of predicting how many trains will/will not go by) -none of our campsites have picnic tables (please plan accordingly) -most campsites have fire rings built, but if you choose a site without one you need to build your own

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Elk Head Overlook

4 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · 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 sites from the main road, if you find yourself on a gravel road for more than 50ft, STOP and verify the address. Sites 1/2 are hard graveled, heavy duty tent stakes are recommended along with mats/padding. There is an electrical box at each end of the hard graveled parking and tent 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, longer set ups can (and have been used) without issue. However, there is not a significant place to "turn around" at the sites and novice drivers (not used to backing out of tight spots with long 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.

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The Ole Place

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents35 acres · Whitwell, TN

35 mostly wooded acres with a 3acre stocked pond (catch and release)for a small group or private getaway. Wildlife viewing, walking, atv riding. Within about 50 miles of Chattanooga, TN. river and other parks, mountains etc.nearby. Will have a couple of camper spots and One cabin with electricity, one camper site with full hookups and one with electricity and water. Dump station,Outhouses onsite, and a shower.

99%

(40)

River Life RV Resort

4 sites · RVs4 acres · 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! Connect with me through my digital business card at www.riverlifervresort.com 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.

96%

(305)

South Suckcreek Campground

20 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · 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!

Camping in Tims Ford State Park guide

Overview

About

Located on Tennessee’s Tims Ford Reservoir, this 2,200-acre park is famed for its water, offering boating, kayaking, swimming, and fishing. There’s also plenty to keep you busy on dry land, with 6.5 miles of unpaved hiking trails in addition to the 22 miles of biking and hiking trails winding along the reservoir’s shoreline. Keep your eyes peeled and your binoculars handy for spotting local wildlife, including bald eagles. And if golf’s your game, tee off on the course, which has water views at each of its 18 holes.

Notable campgrounds

Best for RVs: The Main Campground can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet in length.
Best for seclusion: The park has six paddle-in campsites on their own small islands.
Best for backpackers: Opt for the hike-in or paddle-in Evans Loop Backcountry Campsite.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Booking in advance is recommended and can be easily done online or by phone up to one year in advance.
Reservations are required for hike-in and paddle-in sites.
Same-day booking is not available online—only by phone.
Double-check your dates before booking—a non-refundable booking fee is charged.

When to go

Tims Ford State Park is open year-round and most popular in the summer months, which see lots of visitors cooling off in the reservoir and seasonally open, Olympic-sized swimming pool. Fall’s rich hues of red and orange are also popular—the foliage typically lasts from early October to early November with colors peaking in late October.

Know before you go

You can rent pontoon boats, kayaks, and canoes at the Lake View Marina, which also has a snack bar, bait shop, and fish-cleaning area.
Visit the park’s camp store for gear, snacks, and supplies.
Pets are welcome as long as you supervise your animal at all times and have proof of a rabies shot. Pets are not allowed in park buildings or swimming areas.
Only certified heat-treated firewood is allowed to enter the park as outside firewood.

100%

5 ratings · 2 reviews

Recommends

· September 2018

Tims Ford Campground

Ask for the larger lots to camp.

Kate M.

6 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2017

Tims Ford Campground

Beautiful place. Very busy during the summer. We visited in the January and had a lot of privacy. Great sites and beautiful area. We were right on the water.