Best Camping in and near Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park

Discover the natural splendor of Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park

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Peaceful Hills Retreat Campground

34 sites · RVs, Tents97 acres · Centerville, TN

Peaceful Hills Retreat 390 American Way Centerville, TN 37033 (Pleasantville) Looking for the perfect getaway, you will find some peace and quiet here! Only 14.6 miles from I-40 and located on 97 acres, this campground is surrounded by nature, very secluded and private. There is a crystal-clear creek that runs parallel with the driveway and fresh spring water flowing from pipe in the rock close to the entrance on American Way. The creek is bio-diverse, filled with fascinating species, and spring fed, which means it stays cool in the summertime. There are three beautiful homes which are able to be rented out as well. The A-frame log cabin at the top of the hill is called the lodge. The second home, which is a two-story brown log cabin, is where the host lives. The third home is the cottage. Long before these three homes were built, native Indians lived in these beautiful rolling hills and we have found many arrowheads right around the homes on this property. This is a special place and we are happy and honored to share it with you! Peaceful Hills Retreat, a family owned business, started in May of 2017. It all began when Jennifer’s brilliant brother booked a two-story home through Airbnb for Jennifer and the family for a week in the Carolinas. Their Airbnb vacation was a great experience, and she loved having a kitchen to cook in, while traveling with her large family. She gladly said goodbye to tiny hotel rooms. Linda and her daughter, Jennifer realized they desired to run a BnB, and watched the scattered pieces beautifully fall into place. Peaceful Hills Retreat is also a wedding venue. There are three beautiful spots for a lovely outdoor wedding. The waterfall site is a favorite. The lodge is a beautiful place for the reception to take place outdoors and the Honeymoon Cottage makes for the perfect getaway afterwards. At each home you may read a special book called A Soldier’s Child Foundation (ASC). This life-changing, wonderful foundation near Nashville, serves children all over our great nation who have sadly lost a parent who served in our military. ASC tremendously helped Jennifer’s family after the loss of their military soldier and Peaceful Hills Retreat donates a portion of their profits to this amazing non-profit. A Soldier’s Child Foundation removed the shame and sadness from our loss and replaced it with hope, honor. and love. A portion of our increase at Peaceful Hills Retreat goes to serve this cause to help other families. To learn more, to donate or to get involved, please visit: asoldierschild.org. If you have any other questions or if you need anything at all during your stay, please text us and we'll be happy to help. Hope to see you soon!

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Lionsgate Campground

4 sites · Lodging, Tents48 acres · Bon Aqua Junction, TN

Enjoy glamping in our optional 2017 19' retro style camper with a bathroom and kitchen or go primitive and set up your tent or hammock by the waterfalls and rough it. 2 sites have electricity. No bathrooms or showers if you're roughing it. Just 35 minutes west of Loveless Cafe' in Nashville and 20 minutes south of the Dickson exit at I40. The 48 acre campground has just 3 big tent sites for more seclusion and is almost all old forest with wide trails and huge old growth trees. There is about a 1/2 acre of field to park in between the road and the creek if you don't have an off road vehicle. The rest is woods. Mother Nature has a lot to offer when you cross the creek into the first two campsites that are on the 30' creek. One big spring runs through the middle of the 2 sites with small cascading waterfalls. Both sites have string lights and 120V extension cords. These two sites are separated by the driveway and about 150' apart but a bridge connects the two if you have another couple that wants to join you these two spots are perfect for privacy and companionship. Expand the pictures to a full screen as you scroll so the description will show up at the bottom of the picture. Not all pictures are on the property but describe close places to visit as well. FIREWOOD: Split wood is available upon request and sold in the area (if it's available at the time) or any fallen dead wood from the forest is free. $7.00 for a 20" bundle. Please let us know ahead of time or order it on the site. SITE 1: The nicer of the two sites along the creek, has granite counters, a round fire pit with a fold down heavy cooking grate, charcoal grill and a large wrought iron table and chairs. RENT A CAMPER WITH SITE 1 or BRING YOUR PERSONAL CAMPER: Our retro style 2017 option on the other side of the creek with stairs and stones to cross the creek. Sometimes the walking stones get washed out. 30 amp. 240 and 120 volt plugs. Click on additional fees for camper electrical hook up. SITE 2: Also along side the 30' creek. There is a round steel fire pit surrounded with wrought iron chairs, a separate picnic table, granite countertop work space and a small grill. 2 fairly flat areas for tents. Set your chairs in the creek in front of your site. The clear cold water is a great place to relax and cool off or watch crawfish, minnows and salamanders and the occasional blue herron. 120V and string lights. Parking is a little tight unless you're in a Jeep of more off road vehicle that can park up the hill a bit. SITE 3: "Still Hollow" is more private and located right in the middle valley of the property where a different spring fed creek runs down the wooded valley. There is no electricity but you can still enjoy the sound of small cascading waterfalls and a creek that runs along the side of the site for a relaxing sleep. There is a granite countertop, charcoal grill and a fire ring. A small round wrought iron table and 4 chairs are there for a place to eat lunch. The old moonshine barrels are still barely standing by the spring. This site is also accessed from the opposite side of the campground on Ben Fly Rd or Greer Rd for the serious off roaders. 4 wheel drive may be necessary but a Hyundai car entered through the creek in 2 wheel drive. It was dry though. STAR GAZING for all 3 sites: There is a cleared area on top of a hill side for stargazing far from the city lights. CHECK IN: Check in can be as early as you like if the present campers have checked out. You can always hang out elsewhere on the property and start your day to explore and hike till they leave. Just let us know in advance. And you can stay all day the day of check out but you may have to pack up and park elsewhere if other campers need the spot. If not. Stay till dark. PHOTOS: EXPAND THE PHOTOS TO A SINGLE VIEW! Some photos are of nearby attractions. You can see the description of each photo and which site is in the picture when you expand them. VEHICLE TYPE AND PARKING: In order to drive up into the campsite, you may need a 4x4 vehicle but definitely need ground clearance. If you do not have a 4x4 vehicle or ground clearance, that is okay, park in the field and bring your water shoes for campsite 2. There are stairs and usually stepping stones to cross over to Site 1. Stepping stones for site 2 are coming soon. LOCAL ACTIVITIES: 4 WHEELING!!! FISHERS OFF ROAD RENTALS https://www.fishersoffroadrentals.com/ TOUR THE AREA IN A CAN-AM: Check out 'Fisher's Off Road' to rent a really nice 4 seater CAN-AM machine. Drive around the local dirt roads for miles and learn the history of Moon Shine Alley, drive through many creeks and see some beautiful views. We took to tour with Fisher and it was a blast. This company supports the locals and cleans up the trash on the sides of the roads; a great service to the area. FISHING: https://www.fishingworks.com/tennessee/maury-tn/lake/hooker-chemical-pond-d/ 30 minutes away are 3 small lakes, or very large ponds. I think it costs $5.00. They have small boats for rent as well. FISHING, KAYAKING AND CANOEING: PINEY RIVER Canoe rental: https://www.pinewoodcanoecamp.com/ Great fishing, floating and they have camping as well. OTHER CAMPING OPTIONS: Fisheroffroadrentals also has a Hipcamp site. PINEY RIVER GLAMPING: https://www.campspot.com/book/pineyriverresort Beautiful place on the piney river. Beautiful tiny home cabins, Glamping tents that are amazing. Park your own camper on the river. If you like to meet other campers, this is the place to go.

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Sacred Dog Ranch

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres · Fairview, TN

Our sanctuary is a special piece of history and a regenerative farm where living soil and pollinator banks combat climate change and revive the eco-system ! The cabin we live in was built in 1797 - which we have preserved and upgraded with fantastic antique decor, Rock N Roll flare and cutting edge street art. We encourage art, music and nature crafting! We take great pride in providing a magical creative space that is welcome to earthlings of all stripes! The June blooms are exceptional and the butterflies’ will delight... you will leave a little piece of your heart here on the farm❤️🐝🐶🧚‍♀️ Horse Back Riding available!

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The Bluffs At Tumbling Creek

1 site · RV, Tent9 acres · Hurricane Mills, TN

Welcome to Tumbling Creek Bluffs Private Campground! Nestled in the serene landscape of Tennessee, our campground offers a complete RV hookup with water, electricity, and sewage facilities. Set against the backdrop of the majestic bluffs of Tumbling Creek, guests can indulge in fishing, swimming, and leisurely moments by the water's edge at our secluded campground. Our covered deck provides an ideal spot for family meals, and with campfires under the stars, there are endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Tumbling Creek Bluffs Campground invites you to savor the best of nature and relaxation in one unforgettable setting, all while enjoying complete privacy. While in the area, guests can explore the nearby historic ranch of Loretta Lynn, offering tours of Loretta Lynn's Plantation Home, visits to the museum, and much more. Discover the charm of Tumbling Creek Bluffs and create lasting memories in the heart of nature.

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Brand'n Iron Hills

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Dover, TN

40 acres Located in beautiful Dover TN 5 miles from Lake Barkley & the Cumberland River. Conveniently located a few miles from town, far enough that it is quiet, but close enough that it is not a long trip to town. The property features a variety of thriving wildlife due to our fresh water stream that gently flows through the property year round. The stream is roughly ankle to hip deep depending on the area. The water is crystal clear and safe to play in if you have little ones. Walk along the stream and discover all kinds of fish, turtles, beautiful river stones and possibly see a beaver or 2. If you have Archery equipment, you can use our Archery Range. The property is split by a 2 lane road. 7 acres to the North and 33 acres to the South. The smaller side is flat with many trails, fresh water stream and a gravel road. It features relatively junior trees and is home to a family of Whitetail Deer. The Southern side of the property features a mature hardwood forest full of giant white oak trees. Be sure to put on your hiking boots though, because there's a few Hills to climb. Three hills that form a beautiful valley in the center, with another fresh waterstream. The valley was once home to a 1700s settlement, so you may find some artifacts. (We just ask that you leave them where you find them.) Main trails are marked clearly with large reflectors for safety. With the near-by wildlife refuge you are sure to see and hear a variety of wildlife. We have large steel firepits in every campsite. So feel free to bring your own firewood! Enjoy a good book or nap while relaxing in a hammock. Swing with a loved one while over looking the fresh water stream. Walk down along the stream and collect rocks, feed the fish, or go for a dip! Currently our property is very Primative, whichever there is no electricity or plumbing. We do offer clean composting toilets & a locking gate at night for your security. **Cellular service is limited in some areas. Signal can be found by the road, or cross the road and take the trail up the 1st hill**

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Gypsy Camp. 1043 Gallion rd.

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Cumberland Furnace, TN

Quite country side setting where campers have a beautiful view of valley in a rural farming community. Campers have use of gas grill for cooking, picnic table, fire pit and hot tub for your use at the main house. Bathroom and shower available in main house. Pets are welcome on a leash or can run with owner supervision.

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Poplar Springs LLC

1 site · Lodging70 acres · Waverly, TN

Come and experience the beauty of Poplar Springs in Waverly, TN! Our tree farm covers almost 70 acres of land with lots of trees and trails to explore. You'll see plenty of animals, find wild blackberries and mushrooms, and enjoy a clear creek. In the fall, pick your own pumpkin at our small patch, and in the spring, walk through our flower field. Hang out with friends at our community area with a big fire pit and a deck for parties. Poplar Springs is the perfect place to relax and have fun in nature!

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Blue Heron Landing

6 sites · RVs, Tents358 acres · Lobelville, TN

Blue Heron Campground: A Hidden Gem of History and Nature Nestled along the Tennessee River, Blue Heron Campground offers a unique blend of rich history and natural beauty. Once home to the Cherokee Indians, this 340-acre property is surrounded by water on all sides, boasting a mile-and-a-half shoreline. Just to the north, a designated 20-mile Wildlife Refuge begins, following the river and offering plenty of opportunities for nature enthusiasts. The land itself is a treasure trove, with rich farmland that has grazed cattle and now offers primitive camping with no services, located just 10 miles west of Lobelville, Tennessee. People's Landing, now a swim beach and sand boat ramp, was once a bustling port of commerce. Before the advent of good roads, steamboats, ferry boats, and trains were the primary means of transportation. Just north of People's Landing, Daniel's Landing housed a post office and small store, serving the local community. The Tennessee River is one of only three rivers in the United States that flow north, making it a unique feature of the region. Today, visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, or simply watching the boats and barges pass by. For those looking to explore, a 20-mile day trip to Loretta Lynn's ranch or a 70-mile journey to Nashville awaits. The campground offers 358 acres of open meadows and forests to hike and explore, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the local wildlife and a beautiful sunset over the river to end the day. Blue Heron Campground is truly a hidden gem, offering a perfect escape into history and nature.

1 Hour West of Nashville, 66 acres

5 sites · RVs, Tents66 acres · Nunnelly, TN

Looking to get away into nature ? I own 66 acres, and each camp site it far from each other. Probably 700 ft away. Amenities: spring fed creek, pond, native forests and walking trails, pastures platforms for yoga, meditation, hanging out. Leave no trace camping. Practice camping, backpacking, etc. Nudity and 420 friendly. No drugs. No needles. BYO alcohol. Personal responsibility is key. We can take your trash bags for a trash service fee. :) $5 per bag, we take it to the landfill for you.

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Fox Field Farms Creekside Camping

2 sites · Tents50 acres · Nunnelly, TN

Tent camp alongside the creek under a canopy of trees and be lulled to sleep by the sound of the water. Pitch your tent on the 10x10 raised tent site or nestle it among the trees. Explore the trails, cool off in the creek (yes, we have a couple of swimming holes), fish or just sit by the fire and relax. Watch for the eagles, blue heron, beavers and even the occasional sly fox. You may even hear the call of the whippoorwills in the evening. For those wanting to kayak or canoe, the Piney River is an easy commute of 20 minutes away. Bring your bikes for some of the best gravel rides in Hickman County! ***Amenities: Picnic tables and benches. We provide firewood and a composting toilet. ***A higher clearance vehicle is needed to traverse our steep gravel driveway. This is a walk-in site only due to creek crossings and narrow paths, vehicles are parked approximately 75 yards from campsite. We are happy to help haul your gear to the campsite. ***Check-in between 2pm and 7 pm unless other arrangements are approved

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Camp Wonder Wander is Wanderful

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents17 acres · Waynesboro, TN

Your host Val has walked away from her life as a tenured graphic design professor for a passion that is probably her true calling. Inspired by travels and a youth immersed in girls scouts, I created this retreat center and camp for the opportunity to relish in nature, put away the phone and get back to craft, conversation, and the basics of life. You'll relish in the quiet and beauty of the rural rolling foothills of Appalachia in mid-south TN. 20 minutes from any town so prepare en route. Route 99 splits the 17 acres with retreat center on one side and an 11.5 acre campground with significant river front property On The Buffalo. This is in Lewis county - of the Lewis and Clark adventurers. The Buffalo River is a class 1 and sometimes 2 river perfect for kayaking. Ask about add on options like a tour and story about the camp and animals or even a pottery lesson or art workshop.

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Covered Bridge Pavilion

1 site · RV1 acre · Dresden, TN

Welcome to our private RV campsite, where comfort and convenience await amidst the beauty of the surrounding landscape. With 50 & 30-amp electrical service, sewer, and freshwater availability, we ensure that all your RV needs are met for a worry-free stay. Explore the natural wonders of our area with beautiful walking trails that surround the campsite, offering the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature and enjoy the serenity of the outdoors. Conveniently located just minutes away, Wilson Park awaits its abundance of recreational amenities, including two extensive playgrounds, ball fields, basketball courts, and a fitness track. For those looking for additional outdoor activities, Volunteer Ridge disc golf and the walking trail leading to our Farmers Market are just across the street, providing endless opportunities for fun and adventure. Rest assured that your RV will find a comfortable resting spot easily accessed from our spacious parking lot, allowing for seamless arrivals and departures. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, our private RV campsite offers the perfect home base for your next getaway. Join us and experience the best of outdoor living in our welcoming community.

The best camping near Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park guide

Overview

About

A rustic wood cabin… an old-world stone fireplace… a porch to watch the world go by. You can find all of this and more on your next adventure to Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park. Overlooking the expansive Kentucky Lake, this park provides days of entertainment for you and your crew. Rent a cabin for the weekend and hit one of the seven trails for epic escapades through the rolling hills. Or take it down to the beach for that lazy day in the sun you’ve been daydreaming about from your cubicle. Time will fly by at Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park whether you spend it on water, land, or private porch. That sounds like an easy-breezy decision to me!

When to go

For an ideal visit to Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park, spring and fall offer temperate weather perfect for outdoor activities. Summer brings warmth and a full bloom of nature, but also a surge of visitors. Winters can be brisk, so pack accordingly. Avoid holiday weekends for a more tranquil experience.

Know before you go

Check weather conditions prior to your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Be aware of park hours, typically from 8:30am to 5pm, and plan your activities within this timeframe.
Stay informed about any trail closures or area restrictions during your visit.
Accessibility varies across different areas of the park; inquire ahead for specific needs.
Remember to pack essentials, including water, snacks, and a first-aid kit, for a day of exploration.