Discover the best forest campgrounds in Tennessee with hot tubs

United States
—
Tennessee

92% (143 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Tennessee

Available this weekend

Dog-friendly getaways

100%

(65)

Grandview Camp @ Lemon Lane Farm

6 sites · Lodging116 acres · Grandview, TN

Lemon Lane Farm, a 116 acre farm on the Cumberland Plateau, will take you to another place. Come relax, wonder our trails (1.5-5 mile options), detox in our sauna, meet and play with our animals, fish in our pond, visit our general store, visit nearby waterfalls (3 of them within 5-20 min drive). Stay at the farm and never leave or explore the amazing surrounding areas. Each site at Grandview Camp is unique and has its own private space, visit with the owners of the farm and other campers or be completely private and stay to yourself, the choice is yours. UNPLUG from the world and RECONNECT with nature, animals and the ones you love.

Peekaboo Meadows & The Big Red Barn

2 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Mount Pleasant, TN

Learn more about this land: Situated just outside of Columbia, TN (one of the state's most up-and-coming cities) and right on the same road as our 11th President, James K. Polk, once lived - Peekaboo Meadows & The Big Red Barn are waiting to welcome you! Pull in, drive down the grass road and over the small creek, put it in park at the barn and go stretch your legs on the 4o+ acres surrounding. During the day, feel welcome to walk the serene meadows or take a cleared trail up the ridge to the treehouse! Don't be surprised to be greeted by all kinds of wildlife including deer, turkey, foxes, or our goofy, fun-loving Golden Doodle named "Shme." If walking isn't your thing, you are welcome to drive around (4wd recommended) to go scout out where you'd like to set up camp for the night. If you prefer more peace and privacy, there are two beautiful meadows to choose from which both reach deeper into the property. If you'd prefer the comfort of additional shelter, you are welcome to park and/or set yourself up at the barn instead (which is a little closer to the main road). There is power to the barn - providing light, 30AMP power for RV hookup, as well as an electrical receptacle that you can run your extension chords from. For the extra adventurous - you may want to take a hike up "Thornbush Trail," which follows the ridge right up the middle of the property and has beautiful views of both meadows to either side. Or, for a more direct route, take a walk right up our dirt access road to the upper ridge, where you can peek through the treeline for beautiful elevated views eastward toward Columbia. Our treehouse (in progress) is located right at the top of the access road. Though the treehouse has not yet been completed, feel free to climb the 20' ladder up the inside of the hollowed out trunk and pop your head out the top! It sure makes a great photo! Come back to the barn area in the evening to lounge in the hammock, hang out around the picnic table, or cook dinner and roast some marshmallows over the wood burning fire pit with cooking grill attachment (fireside tools & 1 bundle of firewood provided). One filtered and cooled 5 gallon portable Igloo water cooler will also be provided and placed on the picnic table outside the barn. One rolling 96 gallon covered trash bin will be placed inside the barn (please bag your trash). "Luggable Loo" portable compost toilet is also available for use inside the barn. Tho cell & wifi are spotty here on the farm, we will provide one walkie talkie during your stay for direct communication with the main residence, should there be any issues or needs that arise. On the flip side, privacy is respected and use of the electronics is completely at your discretion! For recreation (each within 15-20 minutes of the farm): 1. Williamsport Public Fishing Lakes for fishing or kayaking 2. Stillhouse Hollow Falls Trail 3. Maury County Park with paved walking trail Yummy food: 1. Puckett's Grocery and Restaurant (Also check out Hattie Jane's Creamery right next door for dessert!) 2. Shaffer Farms BBQ 3. Buck and Board Eatery 4. South Ahan (Thai) 5. China Chef (Chinese) If you're still itchin' for things to do or food to eat, we're certainly glad to provide further recommendations! Our family's goal and aim is that all would feel welcome as they come and all would feel loved as they go. We sure hope your stay is as memorable as it is enjoyable. Happy Camping!

93%

(22)

Friendship Falls Campground

7 sites · Lodging1 acre · Cosby, TN

Friendship Falls Campground is a small campground with ten sites on the river, featuring a small waterfall. We have several tiny homes and RV hookup sites that offer electric, water, and sewer hookups. Additionally, our property features a bathhouse for all guests to use, as well as a community pavilion for socializing and relaxing

81%

(13)

Compound HQ

6 sites · Lodging7 acres · Silver Point, TN

Seeing a need for adventure therapy in this area, we built the Compound to provide sensible solutions. We've created a rustic glamping site for retreats, reunions, and families to gather. Bring your camping gear or ask for accomadations that we can provide. Eager to host you and give you all a tour of the Compound. It has been a great creative outlet for me during this pandemic in hopes to offer opportunities to connect with nature and bring clarity on what truly matters in times like these. Allow me to be your guide through the journey of healing through adventure therapy. Be prepared for good vibes and healing energy from the trees that surround the CompoundHQ.org.

Magical Treehouse Mountain Getaway

5 sites · Lodging30 acres · Copperhill, TN

Head to the forest for your next magical treehouse getaway! This treehouse is supported by a single tree overlooking the forest in all directions. It comfortably sleeps 4 guests. Inside, guests will find a queen bed in the open loft upstairs and a full size futon on the main level. The treehouse is an open concept floor plan in an octagon shape around the tree to maximize space and functionality. On the main level, there is a stocked kitchenette and barstool seating at the counter. You'll find various board games available as well. Guests have access to a private half bathroom located under the loft ladder. There is an additional half bathroom and showers a short walk away at the bathhouse. The bathhouse is a shared facility between three treehouses. It features two showers and two bathrooms (all separate rooms) and is fully climate controlled (warm in winter, cool in summer). It is cleaned daily, sometimes multiple times a day depending on usage. In the shower rooms, guests can find shampoo, conditioner, and body soap available for their use. In the bathrooms, there is toilet paper, hand soap, hand sanitizer, and hair dryers available as well. This treehouse has been furnished for any needs you might have. All linens are provided (all bedding, kitchen towels, bath towels, etc) and additional linens are available upon request. This treehouse has a kitchenette area, complete with sink, drip-pot coffee maker (coffee, creamer, sugar provided), toaster, microwave, and half-size refrigerator. There are additional items such as a rice cooker, water kettle, and some snack items provided as well. This treehouse also has a Blackstone Griddle for cooking in an outdoor cooking area. There is a parking area for guests' cars. The path is well-lit, so there's no need to worry if guests arrive in the evening. The property owners live on property and are readily available to help during check in and check out. This treehouse has its own private fire-pit with firewood and fire starter provided. This treehouse is dog friendly with no additional fee. Treehouse Mountain is a property designed with one thing in mind: relaxation. The property provides 30 acres of mostly forest land for guests to explore. It features four uniquely designed treehouses to fit any travelers needs, and is perfect for hosting groups and events! Here at Treehouse Mountain, our goal is to provide everything that we would want if we were to travel to other rentals. During your stay, you can find that we are readily available if there's anything we can help out with or want help planning your trip to the area as well.

10 top forest campgrounds in Tennessee with hot tubs

95%

(71)

Peekaboo Meadows & The Big Red Barn

2 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Mount Pleasant, TN

Learn more about this land: Situated just outside of Columbia, TN (one of the state's most up-and-coming cities) and right on the same road as our 11th President, James K. Polk, once lived - Peekaboo Meadows & The Big Red Barn are waiting to welcome you! Pull in, drive down the grass road and over the small creek, put it in park at the barn and go stretch your legs on the 4o+ acres surrounding. During the day, feel welcome to walk the serene meadows or take a cleared trail up the ridge to the treehouse! Don't be surprised to be greeted by all kinds of wildlife including deer, turkey, foxes, or our goofy, fun-loving Golden Doodle named "Shme." If walking isn't your thing, you are welcome to drive around (4wd recommended) to go scout out where you'd like to set up camp for the night. If you prefer more peace and privacy, there are two beautiful meadows to choose from which both reach deeper into the property. If you'd prefer the comfort of additional shelter, you are welcome to park and/or set yourself up at the barn instead (which is a little closer to the main road). There is power to the barn - providing light, 30AMP power for RV hookup, as well as an electrical receptacle that you can run your extension chords from. For the extra adventurous - you may want to take a hike up "Thornbush Trail," which follows the ridge right up the middle of the property and has beautiful views of both meadows to either side. Or, for a more direct route, take a walk right up our dirt access road to the upper ridge, where you can peek through the treeline for beautiful elevated views eastward toward Columbia. Our treehouse (in progress) is located right at the top of the access road. Though the treehouse has not yet been completed, feel free to climb the 20' ladder up the inside of the hollowed out trunk and pop your head out the top! It sure makes a great photo! Come back to the barn area in the evening to lounge in the hammock, hang out around the picnic table, or cook dinner and roast some marshmallows over the wood burning fire pit with cooking grill attachment (fireside tools & 1 bundle of firewood provided). One filtered and cooled 5 gallon portable Igloo water cooler will also be provided and placed on the picnic table outside the barn. One rolling 96 gallon covered trash bin will be placed inside the barn (please bag your trash). "Luggable Loo" portable compost toilet is also available for use inside the barn. Tho cell & wifi are spotty here on the farm, we will provide one walkie talkie during your stay for direct communication with the main residence, should there be any issues or needs that arise. On the flip side, privacy is respected and use of the electronics is completely at your discretion! For recreation (each within 15-20 minutes of the farm): 1. Williamsport Public Fishing Lakes for fishing or kayaking 2. Stillhouse Hollow Falls Trail 3. Maury County Park with paved walking trail Yummy food: 1. Puckett's Grocery and Restaurant (Also check out Hattie Jane's Creamery right next door for dessert!) 2. Shaffer Farms BBQ 3. Buck and Board Eatery 4. South Ahan (Thai) 5. China Chef (Chinese) If you're still itchin' for things to do or food to eat, we're certainly glad to provide further recommendations! Our family's goal and aim is that all would feel welcome as they come and all would feel loved as they go. We sure hope your stay is as memorable as it is enjoyable. Happy Camping!

Grandview Camp @ Lemon Lane Farm

6 sites · Lodging116 acres · Grandview, TN

Lemon Lane Farm, a 116 acre farm on the Cumberland Plateau, will take you to another place. Come relax, wonder our trails (1.5-5 mile options), detox in our sauna, meet and play with our animals, fish in our pond, visit our general store, visit nearby waterfalls (3 of them within 5-20 min drive). Stay at the farm and never leave or explore the amazing surrounding areas. Each site at Grandview Camp is unique and has its own private space, visit with the owners of the farm and other campers or be completely private and stay to yourself, the choice is yours. UNPLUG from the world and RECONNECT with nature, animals and the ones you love.

Friendship Falls Campground

7 sites · Lodging1 acre · Cosby, TN

Friendship Falls Campground is a small campground with ten sites on the river, featuring a small waterfall. We have several tiny homes and RV hookup sites that offer electric, water, and sewer hookups. Additionally, our property features a bathhouse for all guests to use, as well as a community pavilion for socializing and relaxing

Magical Treehouse Mountain Getaway

5 sites · Lodging30 acres · Copperhill, TN

Head to the forest for your next magical treehouse getaway! This treehouse is supported by a single tree overlooking the forest in all directions. It comfortably sleeps 4 guests. Inside, guests will find a queen bed in the open loft upstairs and a full size futon on the main level. The treehouse is an open concept floor plan in an octagon shape around the tree to maximize space and functionality. On the main level, there is a stocked kitchenette and barstool seating at the counter. You'll find various board games available as well. Guests have access to a private half bathroom located under the loft ladder. There is an additional half bathroom and showers a short walk away at the bathhouse. The bathhouse is a shared facility between three treehouses. It features two showers and two bathrooms (all separate rooms) and is fully climate controlled (warm in winter, cool in summer). It is cleaned daily, sometimes multiple times a day depending on usage. In the shower rooms, guests can find shampoo, conditioner, and body soap available for their use. In the bathrooms, there is toilet paper, hand soap, hand sanitizer, and hair dryers available as well. This treehouse has been furnished for any needs you might have. All linens are provided (all bedding, kitchen towels, bath towels, etc) and additional linens are available upon request. This treehouse has a kitchenette area, complete with sink, drip-pot coffee maker (coffee, creamer, sugar provided), toaster, microwave, and half-size refrigerator. There are additional items such as a rice cooker, water kettle, and some snack items provided as well. This treehouse also has a Blackstone Griddle for cooking in an outdoor cooking area. There is a parking area for guests' cars. The path is well-lit, so there's no need to worry if guests arrive in the evening. The property owners live on property and are readily available to help during check in and check out. This treehouse has its own private fire-pit with firewood and fire starter provided. This treehouse is dog friendly with no additional fee. Treehouse Mountain is a property designed with one thing in mind: relaxation. The property provides 30 acres of mostly forest land for guests to explore. It features four uniquely designed treehouses to fit any travelers needs, and is perfect for hosting groups and events! Here at Treehouse Mountain, our goal is to provide everything that we would want if we were to travel to other rentals. During your stay, you can find that we are readily available if there's anything we can help out with or want help planning your trip to the area as well.

Compound HQ

6 sites · Lodging7 acres · Silver Point, TN

Seeing a need for adventure therapy in this area, we built the Compound to provide sensible solutions. We've created a rustic glamping site for retreats, reunions, and families to gather. Bring your camping gear or ask for accomadations that we can provide. Eager to host you and give you all a tour of the Compound. It has been a great creative outlet for me during this pandemic in hopes to offer opportunities to connect with nature and bring clarity on what truly matters in times like these. Allow me to be your guide through the journey of healing through adventure therapy. Be prepared for good vibes and healing energy from the trees that surround the CompoundHQ.org.

Haven Village

1 site · Lodging200 acres · Old Fort, TN

Five Guest Glamping Cabins (three with queen-sized beds and two with two twin beds) are available on-site at the Haven Village in East Tennessee. Each cabin is limited to two guests and there is no additional fee for the second person. Cabins are simply decorated with basic a focus on non-toxic bedding including hemp wool mattresses, wool pillows, organic linens and towels. Weekend Package (includes tour & some shared meals) and Meal Plans (for training and events) are an additional cost and need to be added for each person. All bookings must be approved and a $22-month Private Membership Fee per booking is required. All guests must sign our Guest Agreements and Liability Waiver upon arrival. Please note there is a $100 refundable security deposit applied one day prior to arrival and refunded two days after departure to cover any cost for damaged to the property including our organic hemp linens, comforters or lost keys.

Short Mountain Holiday

1 site · Lodging30 acres · Liberty, TN

Escape to this luxurious dome with breathtaking views for a secluded getaway. Just one hour east of Nashville Airport, Nestled on 30 private acres, our dome offers the perfect blend of hotel-like comfort and the great outdoors. Enjoy heat and A/C, a full bathroom, plush beds, and a well-equipped kitchen. Thoughtfully designed to enjoy views from the private hot tub, fire pit, king bed, and kitchen. Perfect for 2 to 4 guests, our dome is great for romantic getaways, friend trips, or a cozy family stay! LOCATION - Located in an area called Short Mountain in Cannon County, just an hour outside of Nashville. Short Mountain is the highest point in Middle Tennessee, but it is "short" compared to the towering peaks of its neighboring Appalachian Mountains. No matter which direction you are traveling in from you will enjoy rolling countryside views, forests, and picturesque farmland. CELL SERVICE, WiFi & TV - Although we encourage guests to disconnect from screens, we do provide fiber Wifi and have full cell service - data and voice - on all major carriers to stay connected to the real world (if you must). The Smart TV is hidden away in a moveable cabinet that emerges with the click of a button. KITCHEN - Enjoy cooking with a view in our stocked kitchen. Includes fridge, toaster oven, convection cooktop w griddle, Nespresso Vertuo w coffee & espresso pods plus a Pour Over for those who want to BYOBeans. Cabinets are stocked with pots, pans, dishes, silverware, cooking and grill utensils, camping cups/coozies, wine glasses and of course coffee mugs. SLEEPING - Cozy up and enjoy the view during the day and stargaze at night from our custom built King Bed that doubles as a couch. Roll the bistro table over to enjoy breakfast in bed. In the loft you will find two memory foam twin beds, feel free to push together for an additional king. OUTSIDE - Step outside onto the thoughtfully designed deck that maximizes privacy while showcasing the stunning view. Unwind in the private hot tub or relax in the comfy Adirondack rocking chairs around the gas fire pit. For those who enjoy outdoor cooking, our gas grill comes with an expansive prep area. Don’t forget to enjoy some fun and games during your stay—try your hand at the 'hook and ring' on the deck or a round of corn-hole in the driveway. Feel free to explore the property and soak in the peaceful surroundings as well. BATHROOM - Light-filled bathroom with a rainwater shower-head, cozy bathrobes, shower essentials and a standard flush toilet. NEARBY 9 Minutes: Dollar General 10 Minutes: Short Mountain Distillery, a small-batch distillery located on a beautiful 400 acre farm w tastings, tours and BYOF frisbee golf courses. 10 Minutes: Rye & Revelry Restaurant. 30 Minutes: Sligo Marina & Hurricane Marina both offer restaurants and boat rental on Center Hill Lake. 35 Minutes: Rock Island State park. One of our favorite parks in Tennessee

Lisenby’s Property

35 sites · RVs, Tents42 acres · Sugar Tree, TN

Nestled atop an 18-acre expanse of secluded land, our property offers a tranquil retreat on a picturesque hill. Revel in the beauty of stunning sunsets and sunrises from our vantage point. Situated on an exclusive road, we guarantee unparalleled privacy as the sole occupants. Prepare to encounter a myriad of wildlife, surrounded by magnificent trees, blooming flowers, and breathtaking views. As an added bonus, we also own the adjacent lot, extending the experience with an additional 24 acres. We invite you to immerse yourself in the serenity of our property and appreciate the natural wonders it has to offer.

Booked 1 time

Bearolina On My Mind

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Sevierville, TN

A wooded-retreat featuring 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a loft that includes 2 additional twin beds, ideal for families or a pair of couples looking to explore the Great Smoky Mountains and all the activities in the greater Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville area. From the inviting front porch with porch swing and rocking chairs, to the screened in porch with a hot tub and ping-pong table, to the back deck where you can grill in the woods, to the large cozy living room with a wood-burning fireplace, this cabin has everything you would think of when you want to get away. The Great Smoky Mountains is the most visited National Park in the United States and is just around the corner from our cabin. Spend a day hiking and exploring nature and wildlife, then relax in the woods in Bearolina On My Mind cabin with all the amenities you would expect in the mountains. Love to see black bears, you are in luck as many of our guests frequently see bears in and around our property.

Away In The Mountains Cabin

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Gatlinburg, TN

The perfect vacation awaits at Away In The Mountains, a beautiful mountain log cabin located in Gatlinburg, and near popular attractions. After exploring, return to the cabin and relax in the hot tub or jetted tubs, take in the scenic mountain views on the two decks with views of Clingmans Dome, warm up in front of the gas fireplaces, or hang out in the game room. 3.7 mi Drive to Pigeon Forge Parkway 6.0 mi Drive to Gatlinburg 8.0 mi Drive to Great Smoky Mountains NP

Under $50

81%

(13)

Compound HQ

6 sites · Lodging7 acres · Silver Point, TN

Seeing a need for adventure therapy in this area, we built the Compound to provide sensible solutions. We've created a rustic glamping site for retreats, reunions, and families to gather. Bring your camping gear or ask for accomadations that we can provide. Eager to host you and give you all a tour of the Compound. It has been a great creative outlet for me during this pandemic in hopes to offer opportunities to connect with nature and bring clarity on what truly matters in times like these. Allow me to be your guide through the journey of healing through adventure therapy. Be prepared for good vibes and healing energy from the trees that surround the CompoundHQ.org.

Lisenby’s Property

35 sites · RVs, Tents42 acres · Sugar Tree, TN

Nestled atop an 18-acre expanse of secluded land, our property offers a tranquil retreat on a picturesque hill. Revel in the beauty of stunning sunsets and sunrises from our vantage point. Situated on an exclusive road, we guarantee unparalleled privacy as the sole occupants. Prepare to encounter a myriad of wildlife, surrounded by magnificent trees, blooming flowers, and breathtaking views. As an added bonus, we also own the adjacent lot, extending the experience with an additional 24 acres. We invite you to immerse yourself in the serenity of our property and appreciate the natural wonders it has to offer.

Peekaboo Meadows & The Big Red Barn

2 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Mount Pleasant, TN

Learn more about this land: Situated just outside of Columbia, TN (one of the state's most up-and-coming cities) and right on the same road as our 11th President, James K. Polk, once lived - Peekaboo Meadows & The Big Red Barn are waiting to welcome you! Pull in, drive down the grass road and over the small creek, put it in park at the barn and go stretch your legs on the 4o+ acres surrounding. During the day, feel welcome to walk the serene meadows or take a cleared trail up the ridge to the treehouse! Don't be surprised to be greeted by all kinds of wildlife including deer, turkey, foxes, or our goofy, fun-loving Golden Doodle named "Shme." If walking isn't your thing, you are welcome to drive around (4wd recommended) to go scout out where you'd like to set up camp for the night. If you prefer more peace and privacy, there are two beautiful meadows to choose from which both reach deeper into the property. If you'd prefer the comfort of additional shelter, you are welcome to park and/or set yourself up at the barn instead (which is a little closer to the main road). There is power to the barn - providing light, 30AMP power for RV hookup, as well as an electrical receptacle that you can run your extension chords from. For the extra adventurous - you may want to take a hike up "Thornbush Trail," which follows the ridge right up the middle of the property and has beautiful views of both meadows to either side. Or, for a more direct route, take a walk right up our dirt access road to the upper ridge, where you can peek through the treeline for beautiful elevated views eastward toward Columbia. Our treehouse (in progress) is located right at the top of the access road. Though the treehouse has not yet been completed, feel free to climb the 20' ladder up the inside of the hollowed out trunk and pop your head out the top! It sure makes a great photo! Come back to the barn area in the evening to lounge in the hammock, hang out around the picnic table, or cook dinner and roast some marshmallows over the wood burning fire pit with cooking grill attachment (fireside tools & 1 bundle of firewood provided). One filtered and cooled 5 gallon portable Igloo water cooler will also be provided and placed on the picnic table outside the barn. One rolling 96 gallon covered trash bin will be placed inside the barn (please bag your trash). "Luggable Loo" portable compost toilet is also available for use inside the barn. Tho cell & wifi are spotty here on the farm, we will provide one walkie talkie during your stay for direct communication with the main residence, should there be any issues or needs that arise. On the flip side, privacy is respected and use of the electronics is completely at your discretion! For recreation (each within 15-20 minutes of the farm): 1. Williamsport Public Fishing Lakes for fishing or kayaking 2. Stillhouse Hollow Falls Trail 3. Maury County Park with paved walking trail Yummy food: 1. Puckett's Grocery and Restaurant (Also check out Hattie Jane's Creamery right next door for dessert!) 2. Shaffer Farms BBQ 3. Buck and Board Eatery 4. South Ahan (Thai) 5. China Chef (Chinese) If you're still itchin' for things to do or food to eat, we're certainly glad to provide further recommendations! Our family's goal and aim is that all would feel welcome as they come and all would feel loved as they go. We sure hope your stay is as memorable as it is enjoyable. Happy Camping!

Forest camping in Tennessee with hot tubs guide

Overview

The geology of the Volunteer State is surprisingly dramatic. The landscape soars from the delta lowlands of the Mississippi River east to the rugged heights of the Cumberland Plateau before climbing the forested slopes of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The varied terrain is well-suited for active campers, from paddlers and rock climbers to fishers and firefly hunters. And hikers? They’re happy everywhere. Tent and RV sites are abundant, and a growing array of glamping options—yurts, retro trailers, and treehouses—keep the camping scene fresh. And in music-loving Tennessee, a live jam is never far away, be it blues, bluegrass, or Bonnaroo.

Where to go

West Tennessee

Bordered by the Mississippi and anchored by Memphis, West Tennessee works best for campers seeking music, history, and low-key outdoor thrills. Tents and RVs are welcome at Pickwick Landing State Park, known for its lake and watersports, while birdwatchers may prefer driving north to Reelfoot Lake State Park, where bald eagles are plentiful. Shiloh National Military Park spotlights a pivotal battle in the Civil War.

Middle Tennessee

Marked by cliffs, waterfalls, wild rivers, dark skies, and lush forests, Middle Tennessee is a geologic drama queen. Packed with state parks along the steep edges of the Cumberland Plateau, it’s also a top destination for camping and active travelers. Visit Nashville, home to honky-tonks, hot chicken, and Vanderbilt, then hit Fall Creek Falls, a deep-green state park loaded with waterfalls. Stay in cabins constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in Cumberland Mountain State Park or CCC Pickett Memorial State Park—where you can go stargazing. The Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area draws adventurous paddlers, and campers can even sleep beside the 444-mile Natchez Trace Parkway, a historic trade route that stretches from the Mississippi River to Nashville.

East Tennessee

Prefer urban adventures? Knoxville and Chattanooga await. Knoxville is best known as the state capital, but mountain bikers love the city’s urban wilderness and its 50-mile network of trails. Chattanooga is a convenient base for rock climbing and whitewater rafting. The craft beer scene in both cities impresses too. For hiking and solitude head north to Frozen Head State Park. Families with varied interests may prefer Big Ridge State Park, which offers trails, lake swimming, and volleyball and basketball courts.

Great Smoky Mountains

The most visited national park in the United States, Great Smoky Mountains National Park sprawls across eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail bounces along the boundary line between the two states. The park has nine developed campgrounds and numerous backcountry shelters. Tent sites, RV parks, cabins, and glamping destinations punctuate the foothills region, which is anchored by Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.