Camping in Tennessee

Tennessee’s calling all nature enthusiasts! Ditch the city and swap it for stunning landscapes, from the misty peaks of the Great Smokies to the sun-kissed shores of Reelfoot Lake.

A sunrise with views? Check. Crisp mountain air filling your lungs? Check. Crackling campfire stories under a sky ablaze with stars? This state has it all. From rustic backcountry havens to family-friendly options with all the comforts, find your adventure and embrace the wild side of Tennessee.

With diverse landscapes ranging from lush forests and towering peaks to cascading waterfalls and tranquil streams, the park offers a variety of camping options. Campers can choose from developed campgrounds with amenities like restrooms and showers, or opt for more remote backcountry campsites for a true wilderness experience. The park boasts stunning views, abundant wildlife, and numerous hiking trails, making it a perfect escape for all levels of experience.

Located in the southeast corner of Tennessee, Fall Creek Falls State Park is home to the tallest waterfall in the state, cascading 256 feet down a rocky gorge. The park offers a variety of camping options, including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins. Campers can enjoy swimming, fishing, kayaking, and hiking on the numerous trails that wind through the park’s diverse landscapes, including waterfalls, forests, and scenic overlooks.

Encompassing over 800,000 acres across eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina, the Cherokee National Forest is a vast wilderness area with diverse ecosystems. The forest offers various camping opportunities, from primitive campsites deep in the backcountry to developed campgrounds with amenities like picnic tables and fire rings. Hikers and mountain bikers can explore a network of trails, while anglers can cast their lines in the many streams and rivers. 

Located along the Big South Fork River in east Tennessee, this recreation area offers scenic beauty and diverse recreational opportunities. Campers can choose from various campsites, ranging from primitive sites along the river to developed campgrounds with amenities. The area is known for its whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Additionally, visitors can explore historical sites, hike scenic trails, and go horseback riding.

Situated at the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is a popular tourist destination with numerous camping options. The town offers a variety of campgrounds, ranging from family-friendly sites with amenities to more rustic options closer to the park. Campers can enjoy easy access to the park’s hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks.

Spanning across the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States. Renowned for its breathtaking mountain scenery, diverse plant and animal life, and rich cultural heritage, the park offers a plethora of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Hike along over 800 miles of trails, ranging from leisurely strolls to challenging climbs, and be rewarded with panoramic vistas of lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and rolling hills. Immerse yourself in the park's rich history by exploring historical sites like the Cades Cove Living History Museum and the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.

Affectionately known as "Music City," Nashville is a vibrant metropolis steeped in musical history and culture. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of downtown Nashville, where honky-tonk bars line the streets, and the sounds of country music fill the air. Visit iconic landmarks like the Grand Ole Opry, a legendary stage that has launched the careers of countless country music stars, and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, which chronicles the history and evolution of the genre.

Graceland, located in Memphis, Tennessee, is the iconic mansion that was once the home of the "King of Rock and Roll," Elvis Presley. This pilgrimage site for music fans offers a glimpse into Elvis's life and career. Tour the expansive mansion, including his private quarters, recording studio, and Jungle Room, decorated in a unique Polynesian theme. Explore the Elvis Presley's Memphis Complex, which includes Graceland Mansion, Elvis Presley's Memphis airplane Lisa Marie, The "Heartbreak Hotel" on the mansion grounds, and the Elvis Presley's Automobile Museum, showcasing Elvis's car collection.

Experience the thrill of roller coasters like Wild Eagle and Lightning Rod, explore recreated mountain towns, and enjoy captivating live shows that showcase the rich culture and heritage of the Appalachian region. Dollywood also hosts seasonal events throughout the year, including the renowned Smoky Mountain Christmas, transforming the park into a winter wonderland.

Gatlinburg is a popular resort town offering a variety of activities and attractions. Explore the bustling Parkway, lined with shops, restaurants, and arcades. Take a scenic ride on the Gatlinburg SkyLift, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Visit Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, home to a diverse collection of aquatic life, or Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditorium, showcasing a collection of strange and unusual artifacts. 

Deep beneath the surface of Lookout Mountain in Tennessee, the Lost Sea is America's largest underground lake. Embark on a guided boat tour and marvel at the cavern's natural beauty, including towering rock formations and glistening waterfalls. The Lost Sea also offers visitors the opportunity to go spelunking on a guided cave tour, venturing off the beaten path to explore hidden passages and unique geological features.

Deep in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the Chattanooga Choo Choo is a historic train station turned into a unique entertainment complex. Explore the restored train cars, enjoy a variety of restaurants and shops, or even spend the night in a beautifully restored railroad car transformed into a luxurious hotel room. Visitors can also take a ride on a restored steam locomotive, offering a scenic journey through the Tennessee countryside.

Embark on a guided tour and learn about the unique charcoal mellowing process that gives Jack Daniel's Tennessee whiskey its distinct flavor. Explore the historic buildings on the distillery grounds, including the original rickhouses where the whiskey ages, and sample different Jack Daniel's products in the tasting room.

Descend 260 feet into the cool depths of Lookout Mountain aboard a glass-enclosed elevator and witness the cascading wonder of Ruby Falls, the tallest underground waterfall open to the public in the United States. The tour also includes breathtaking views of the surrounding cave formations and informative commentary about the unique geology of the region.

Located in Franklin, Tennessee, the Carter House served as a Confederate field hospital during the Battle of Franklin in 1864. Today, it stands as a museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the Civil War era. Explore the meticulously restored mansion, learn about the lives of the Carter family who lived there, and witness the bullet holes and other scars left behind by the battle. The Carter House offers a poignant reminder of the human cost of the Civil War.

Housed in a stunning Art Deco building in Nashville, Tennessee, the Frist Art Museum is a leading institution dedicated to showcasing American art forms. Explore the museum's permanent collection, featuring works by renowned American artists like Georgia O'Keeffe, James McNeill Whistler, and Mary Cassatt. The Frist Art Museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions, showcasing diverse art forms and historical periods.

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But the benefits extend far beyond the search engine. OHI membership unlocks a treasure trove of exclusive advantages designed to elevate your RV experience. Chart your course with the intuitive trip planner, a powerful tool that meticulously maps your route, identifies campgrounds perfectly positioned along your journey, and even estimates travel time, ensuring seamless navigation throughout your adventure.