Camping

  • Van campsite at dusk, warm lights, people playing guitar, surrounded by autumn trees.
  • Two people and a dog by a campfire in a forest during autumn.

    Camping at Tennessee State Parks

    Camping and hiking are probably the two most quintessential activities you could enjoy in Tennessee State Parks.

    Roasting marshmallows, cooking over an open fire, sleeping with the stars above and the sounds of chirping crickets has a way of deeply impacting your mental and physical health.  

    Whether you are bringing the whole family for an RV rendezvous, planning to cuddle up in a tent, or looking for quiet solitude in the backcountry, Tennessee State Parks offer a variety of unique camping experiences. 

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    Types of Camping

    There are more than 30 Tennessee State Parks that offer some sort of camping opportunity, but there is a lot of variation in what each park offers. The following categories explain each camping option you can find in Tennessee State Parks.  

    Park Activities

    • Two cyclists on a tandem bike in a rural area under a clear blue sky.

      Biking

      Explore scenic biking trails for all skill levels across Tennessee State Parks. Find trail difficulty, distances, and park amenities for cyclists.

      Biking - Learn More
    • Boat cruising across a calm lake surrounded by forested hills.

      Boating

      Find boat launches, rentals, and marina services at Tennessee State Parks. Explore lakes and waterways perfect for boating adventures.

      Boating - Learn More
    • View from inside a dark cave looking out at a lush, green forest and stream.

      Caving

      Explore underground wonders in Tennessee's state parks. Learn about cave tours, safety guidelines, and preservation of these unique ecosystems.

      Caving - Learn More
    • starry night sky making a line in the sky with trees in the distance

      Dark Sky Viewing

      Experience Tennessee's best stargazing locations with minimal light pollution. Find astronomy programs and dark sky events in our state parks.

      Dark Sky Viewing - Learn More
    • Person playing disc golf in a forest, throwing an orange disc toward a metal basket.

      Disc Golf

      Play disc golf on scenic courses throughout Tennessee State Parks. Find course maps, difficulty ratings, and tournament information.

      Disc Golf - Learn More
    • Youth Holding Bass

      Fishing

      Cast a line in Tennessee's premier fishing spots. Find information on fish species, license requirements, and accessible fishing piers.

      Fishing - Learn More
    • Forest trail winding through lush green trees on a sunny day.

      Geocaching

      Find geocaching guidelines, coordinates, and family-friendly caching trails across Tennessee State Parks.

      Geocaching - Learn More
    • A golf course hole with a flag surrounded by lush green trees

      Golfing

      Tee up an exceptional golf experience on one of the nine beautiful courses of the Tennessee Golf Trail. 

      Golfing - Learn More
    • Sunlit forest trail with a wooden footbridge and lush greenery.

      Hiking

      Explore over 1,000 miles of hiking trails across Tennessee. Find trail maps, difficulty ratings, and scenic highlights for your next adventure.

      Hiking - Learn More
    • A group of horseback riders navigate a lush forest trail. The scene captures a sense of adventure and tranquility, surrounded by dense green foliage.

      Horseback Riding

      Saddle up for scenic horseback riding trails and guided tours in Tennessee State Parks. Find stables, trail information, and riding programs.

      Horseback Riding - Learn More
    • A person kayaking on a calm river near a mossy, rocky cliff with cascading waterfalls. Surrounding lush green foliage creates a serene atmosphere.

      Paddling

      Paddle Tennessee's scenic waterways. Find kayak and canoe rentals, water trails, and guided paddling excursions in our state parks.

      Paddling - Learn More
    • Calm lake with trees, a swimmer, and a stone path under a clear blue sky.

      Swimming

      Cool off at natural swimming areas and beaches in Tennessee State Parks. Find lifeguarded areas, hours, and amenities for family water fun.

      Swimming - Learn More
    • Close-up of a hawk with sharp eyes and mottled brown feathers.

      Birding

      Discover prime birding locations across Tennessee State Parks. Find species checklists, seasonal migration information, and guided birding events.

      Birding - Learn More
    • Cyclist jumping on a dirt trail in a wooded area.

      Mountain Biking

      Mountain bike the wild trails of Tennessee State Parks. Learn more about mountain biking trails, difficulty ratings and safety.

      Mountain Biking - Learn More
    • A person relaxes in a hammock near a campfire, surrounded by autumn trees. A lake reflects the warm sunset, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.

      Camping

      Camping and hiking are probably the two most quintessential activities you could enjoy in Tennessee State Parks.
      Camping - Learn More
    • Waterfall surrounded by lush green foliage under soft sunlight.

      Waterfall Viewing

      Discover breathtaking waterfalls throughout Tennessee State Parks. Find hiking trails to cascades, photography tips, and seasonal viewing information.

      Waterfall Viewing - Learn More

    Planning a Group Gathering?

    Reconnect with friends, family, or colleagues in the breathtaking Tennessee State Parks – plan your group gathering for outdoor adventures and shared experiences.

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