Tennessee’s state parks offer premium amenities and unrivaled natural beauty. From staggering waterfalls to striking scenic vistas, the Volunteer State has it all.
But you’ll find a lot of options to choose from. And although we can’t think of any you should stay away from, a few shining gems stand out against the crowd.
Today, we’re bringing you five of Tennessee’s best budget camping destinations.
Let’s jump in!
Why Travel to the Volunteer State?
Tennessee is home to 57 state parks, ranging from a mere 19 acres to a whopping 31,500. Each offers visitors a unique experience. In fact, history buffs, birdwatchers, spelunkers, and paddlers can all find something to enjoy here.
Best of all, many destinations provide scenic accommodations with easy access to big-city amenities. You can take advantage of Nashville’s music scene, Memphis’ culinary delights, and the excitement of Dollywood without spending all your time in metropolitan areas.
In order to sweeten the deal, the parks service offers many discounts for visitors. State residents get 10% off stays. Senior citizens and those with proof of ADA eligibility can also receive 25% to 50% off camping and lodging fees. Finally, veterans, state employees, and others can take advantage of reduced rates too.
Before you pack your bags, take a look at these five highly-rated Tennessee state parks with RV hookups.
#1 Edgar Evins State Park
Edgar Evins State Park is about an hour and 20 minutes east of Nashville, Tennessee. This spot on the shores of Center Hill Lake features plenty of hiking, boating, and fishing opportunities. Additionally, birdwatchers have reported more than 150 species throughout the year, and many enjoy climbing to the top of the observation tower to see them in the canopies.
A one-mile trail links the campground to the marina, which has a restaurant, boat launch, playground, and other facilities. For a more substantial trek, the Merritt Ridge Trail traverses a peninsula and stretches over five miles into the glorious wilderness.
The campground at Edgar Evins won’t disappoint, either. Sixty sites have water and electrical hookups with 20-, 30-, and 50-Amp service. There’s a restroom with showers and flushing toilets, a dump station, and a general store where you can pick up last-minute necessities.
A number of spots put your camper on an elevated platform, giving you unencumbered views of the reservoir. We know many can accommodate 36-foot rigs, but if your setup is longer, give them a call to see if you’ll fit.
#2 Fall Creek Falls State Park
Fall Creek Falls State Park is one of the most popular in Tennessee. Located an hour north of Chattanooga, this destination features striking waterfalls that plunge into immense gorges. In fact, it’s a prime example of the Cumberland Plateau’s beauty.
You can explore nearly 30,000 acres of hardwood forest surrounding Fall Creek Lake here. Over 55 miles of hiking trails traverse the property, ranging from quick jaunts to overnight excursions. Many visitors also enjoy casting a line for catfish, bluegill, and largemouth bass.
However, this park includes modern amenities you rarely see at state-run facilities. You can play a round of golf on the award-winning 18-hole course. There’s also a driving range and putting green if you want to practice a bit. The Canopy Challenge Course lets you zipline through the trees and tackle up to 70 suspended obstacles.
Additionally, there’s a nature center with tons of interpretive displays, as well. Naturalists offer daily programs like arts and crafts, eco-demonstrations, and game nights.
If that’s not enough to convince you to visit, the campground might seal the deal. You’ll find 222 RV sites, with about half boasting full hookups. Most have a picnic table and a fire ring. You’ll also have access to seven bathhouses, trash service, and a dump station. Some spots can hold setups up to 65 feet long.
Here are the Best Free Camping Spots in Tennessee!
#3 Pickett CCC Memorial State Park
Pickett CCC Memorial State Park is about two hours north of Knoxville, Tennessee. This destination is in the 20,887-acre Pickett State Forest and adjacent to the 125,000-acre Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. Its status as an International Dark Sky Park is no surprise.
But there’s also plenty to do here during the day. Arch Lake is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and paddling. Nearly 60 miles of hiking trails lead to rock houses, sandstone bridges, and other unusual geologic formations.
Next, stop by the Pickett CCC Museum to venture back in time and learn about the Civilian Conservation Corps’ contributions to preserving the landscape. Interactive and interpretive exhibits help tell the story of Tennessee’s state parks.
Over 30 RV campsites include water and about twenty of those have electrical hookups with 20- and 30-Amp service, too. We’ve heard of rigs up to 34 feet fitting into these spots, but you may want to call if your setup is longer.
The sites have picnic tables and fire pits. A nearby dump station and restrooms with showers make for convenient stays. You can also purchase firewood without leaving the grounds.
As far as Tennessee budget camping is concerned, this destination is a winner!
Looking for more? Check out Tennessee’s Secret City!
#4 Rock Island State Park
Rock Island State Park is another wildly popular budget camping spot in Tennessee. Situated between Nashville and Knoxville, its proximity to the big city falls in its favor.
Caney Fork River Gorge draws visitors from all over. Its cascading waterfalls and stony riverbeds are a photographer’s dream. This is where the Collins, Caney Fork, and Rocky Rivers converge with Center Hill Lake.
In the early 1900s, a textile mill was the area’s cornerstone. Later, a hydroelectric dam was built to supply power to the region. It’s now a major recreational zone, but the dam is still operating. Of course, you’ll need to steer clear of certain parts of these rivers, as large amounts of water are regularly released.
Despite the dangers, there’s a lot to enjoy about this park. Anglers fish for crappie, catfish, walleye, and smallmouth bass year-round. Eight recreational trails, from short stretches to three-mile hikes, provide access to scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and wildflowers.
Fifty campsites offer water and 20-, 30-, and 50-Amp electrical service. A handful also have sewer, but you’ll need to book far in advance to score one of these treasured spots. They all have charcoal grills, picnic tables, and lantern holders. Rigs up to 35 feet should fit comfortably.
Finally, bathhouses with hot showers, trash service, and a dump station help ensure you’ll have the essentials.
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#5 Roan Mountian State Park
Located in the northeast corner of Tennessee, Roan Mountain State Park offers rest and relaxation for weary travelers.
You can get a sense of Southern Appalachia’s history by browsing the museum and visitor center. Here, you’ll see interpretive displays on past mining, logging, and farming ventures. The area was also a waypoint for soldiers during the Revolutionary War. In the summer months, you can tour the old Miller farmhouse, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Of course, there’s no shortage of recreational activities to enjoy. About 12 miles of multi-use trails meander the park. Furthermore, the Doe River is home to three trout species and is frequently restocked by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. You’ll even find tennis courts where you can put your arm to the test.
The campsite features 86 RV spots with water and 20-, 30-, and 50-Amp electrical hookups. They can accommodate rigs up to 45 feet, but folks with extended units should call ahead. In addition, restrooms with showers, trash service, and a dump station are all available.
Country Music and Hot Chicken are Just the Beginning
Tennessee’s state parks are an excellent option for folks traveling through on a budget. Campers can explore the great outdoors, learn about local history, and even take in the big-city sites while having a peaceful place to call home at the end of the day.
The next time you head to the Volunteer State, be sure to check out its many natural wonders!
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