Tennessee is a hidden gem for camping in the autumn season. Leaves change here in late October, so make plans now for an end-of-the-season camping getaway. Here are six diverse and beautiful campsites across Tennessee. Whether you’re looking for a rustic backcountry site, a luxurious and fully-equipped glamping site, or something in between, this list will have options for every type of camper.
1. Defenders Retreat Farm - 12 Sites
Travel about one hour east of Nashville and you'll discover a private camping oasis called Defender's Retreat. 12 fully-equipped campsites are spread over 250+ rolling acres. Hike the property or enjoy a variety of excursions within a 15-minute drive. Center Hill Lake, where campers can rent pontoon boats at Hurricane Marina, is just minutes away. The property is also a short 12-minute drive to Edgar Evins State Park with 3 boat launches and 11 miles of hiking trails.
2. Stickley Farm - 4 Sites
Stickley Farm, a family-owned and operated farm and agritourism destination is popular with families and groups looking for outdoor fun. Join in on seasonal events like the corn maze and hay rides or try to break out of the Milk House Manor Escape Room. Choose from four well-appointed Tentrr sites set on a large field. Enjoy the farm activities during the day and then gather around your fire pit in the evening for s'mores and stories. If your looking for glamping or group camping near Bristol or Johnson City, Tennessee, Stickley Farm is perfect since it's less than 30 minutes from both locations. Check out Tentrr @ Stickley Farm.
3. Cove Creek Bluff
Cove Creek Bluff is a backcountry site, which is not far from the Chattanooga city center. Near a cascading waterfall, the sunrise views are spectacular. The area offers a self-guided tour of the farm where Cove Creek sits. Guided tours are also available upon request. One important note is that if the gates are closed, you may enter, but please make sure to close the gate after passing through. Pets are allowed here, bt they must remain on a leash whenever they’re around farm animals. This is a quiet, low-key, affordable getaway and perfect for waterfall lovers!
4. Gnome Hollow at Dixon Hill Farm
Gnome Hollow is nestled just outside of historic Greeneville, Tennessee, overlooking Viking Mountain, Paint Creek, Horse Creek and Camp Creek. Campers who visit this site praise its scenic views and attentive hosts. This area of Tennessee offers many opportunities to fish, hike, cycle, and just enjoy the beauty of the Appalachian Highlands. Margarette Falls, Cherokee National Forest, Hot Springs, NC are all within driving distance. Veteran-owned and operated.
5. Cove Creek Forest
Next on the list of terrific Tennessee getaways is Cove Creek Forest. All the usual Tentrr amenities can be found here: queen size bed in a large tent, a grill for cooking, and picnic table for meals. This private campsite is nestled in the woods near the road, which makes carrying any equipment easy and convenient. Hiking trails on the property abound, so campers can enjoy the lovely fall Tennessee scenery. Like some of our other sites, this is a farm, so pets must be on a leash whenever they are around the farm animals.
6. The Pepoon at Camp Chet
You are in for a treat at The Pepoon at Camp Chet, a fabulous 650 acres of private forest. This is one of Tentrr’s “Partner Sites”. All that means is that it’s a privately-owned glamping site with even more modern amenities than our other Tentrr sites. Parking is close and convenient, plus the site itself is large enough to accommodate up to 14 campers at once. The area is also pet friendly.
Much more than camping, this site offers small cabins with outhouses, full-sized beds, and even a cornhole set to play. ATV tours are available and guests can rent a hammock for a small fee. Guests can spend the day exploring the area’s coal mines (safety first), or just take it easy and kick your feet up in one of the comfy mini-cabins.