Long Hunter Camping

Notification Alert
Notification

New Gate and Closing Procedures

Long Hunter State Park

For enhanced safety and security, Long Hunter State Park has installed a new electronic gate at the main entrance of the park. Once activated, on November 1st, 2025, the gate will open daily at 5:00 AM and close nightly at 8:00 PM.

Please note:

  • Entry will not be permitted outside of the operational hours listed above. Boat ramp users may still launch if they arrive before 8:00 PM.
  • Guests visiting the park should vacate by closing time at 8:00 PM (The park’s day-use areas close at 8:00 PM).
  • Exiting the park will remain unrestricted—the gate will automatically open for all outbound traffic.

Operational hours at other areas of the park (Bryant’s Grove and Volunteer Trail) will not be affected. These areas will continue to close at 5:00 PM during standard time and 8:00 PM during daylight saving time.

Thank you for your patience and understanding. If you have any questions, please contact the park at 615-885-2422.

  • Bryant Grove Area
    Michael Wessner
  • Camping at Long Hunter

    Long Hunter State Park is located along the shores of J. Percy Priest Lake in Middle Tennessee, just east of Nashville. The park offers a lakeside setting with miles of trails and easy access to boating, fishing, hiking, and biking. 

    Camping options include backcountry campsites that require a hike to reach and three large primitive group camping areas.

    Backcountry Campground

    Backcountry Camping

    Long Hunter has two primitive campsites for tent camping only, each site has a designated fire ring. Both sites are wooded, offering shade, they are located on the shoreline of J.Percy Priest Lake. A 6-mile hike is required to reach the sites, beginning at the parking lot, using the Day Loop/Volunteer Trailhead. Backpacking equipment is strongly suggested. There is no running water, electricity, restrooms, or heated showers available. Water must be filtered from natural sources or carried in. The campsites are open year-round. Campsite capacity ranges from 8-10 persons.

    Long Hunter Group Campsites

    Group Camp

    Organized groups can reserve primitive campsites containing picnic tables, fire rings, nearby water and access to the park office restroom. Please call the park office for availability, pricing, and reservations. 

    Rates are subject to change. A $5 reservation fee per site is required and non-refundable.

    Accesibility at Long Hunter

    Visit the park’s accessibility page to see detailed accessibility information.

    Details You Should Know

    • Reservations

      Reservations are required for ALL backcountry camping. Your reservation receipt is your permit. 

    • Parking for Backcountry

      A copy of your camping receipt MUST be on your person during your overnight stay. A copy of your camping receipt or a piece of paper with the name associated with the reservation MUST be placed in the dash of each vehicle that is to be parked overnight at the trailhead.

    • No Hiking Trails After Dark

      No hiking on trails after dark. Please allow enough time to reach your destination in daylight.

    • Permits Issued

      The last permit will be issued 2-3 hours before sunset.

    • Site Access

      A 6-mile hike is required to reach the sites, beginning at the parking lot, using the Day Loop/Volunteer Trailhead. No water entrance to the campsites is allowed.

    • Electric and Water

      There is no running water, electricity, restrooms, or heated showers available. Water must be filtered from natural sources or carried in.

    Firewood Policy 

    Tennessee State Parks asks that ALL campfires be made with heat-treated wood or downed wood collected inside the park, near the campsite. Please refrain from bringing untreated wood into the park.  

    • Protect Tennessee Forests 

      To learn more about the pests that threaten Tennessee and what you can do to help prevent the introduction and spread of invasive pests, click the link below.

      Learn More (Opens in a new tab)
    • Don’t Move Firewood 

      To learn more about Don’t Move Firewood, click the link below.

      Learn More (Opens in a new tab)
    • Find Firewood Vendors 

      Find firewood vendors near you, when you are at the park, or on the way.

    Discover More at Long Hunter

    Visitor Center Gift Shop

    The Visitor Center Gift Shop is the perfect place to pick up a map, learn about the park, or find a souvenir. You’ll find an assortment of apparel and keepsakes to remember your trip to the park.

    Address:
    2910 Hobson Pike, Hermitage TN, 37076

    Hours:
    Sunday - Saturday 
    8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    Closed for lunch from 12:00 - 1:00 PM
    Closed on State Holidays

    Explore the Park

    Skip photo gallery
    Media Crowdriff

    Inspiration

    • Spring Wildflower Scavenger Hunt

      Spring blooms brighten our hiking trails and support pollinators and wildlife. Explore 14 wildflowers and the Tennessee state parks where you can find them.
      Spring Wildflower Scavenger Hunt - Read Article
    • Tennessee State Park Road Trips

      Road Trips are great because they’re flexible. We pre-planned five road trips packed with Tennessee State Parks, incredible outdoor adventures, history, and overnight stays.
      Tennessee State Park Road Trips - Read Article
    • “A Wonderful Bird is the Pelican…”

      We often associate pelicans with sea spray, waves and warm beaches, yet one of America’s largest and most majestic birds breeds in the American Heartland and can be seen during its winter migration on inland freshwater and coastal bays and estuaries throughout our continent.
      “A Wonderful Bird is the Pelican…” - Read Article
    • Eight Stroller Friendly State Parks In Tennessee

      Tennessee is well known for its beautiful state parks that offer a variety of outdoor activities for families. However, not all state parks are equally accessible for families with young children. Parents with strollers often face challenges due to uneven terrain, steep hills, or narrow paths. In this blog post, we will explore eight state parks in Tennessee that are stroller-friendly and offer a great outdoor experience for families with young children.
      Eight Stroller Friendly State Parks In Tennessee - Read Article
    Happenings

    Other Activities at Long Hunter State Park