Mountain Camping in Tennessee
Discover the best mountain camping across Tennessee. Rise above it all in mountain campgrounds. Crisp air, towering peaks, and endless alpine adventure.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Indian Boundary
Towering hardwoods frame panoramic views of the Southern Appalachians, where ancient forest canopy gives way to scenic overlooks revealing layer upon layer of rolling mountain ridges.
Chilhowee Campground
Towering Appalachian hardwoods frame this Cherokee National Forest retreat, where forest trails lead to cascading Benton Falls and McKamy Lake mirrors the surrounding peaks.
Smokemont Group Campground
Tucked at 2,198 feet elevation where the Smokies' ancient ridgelines tower overhead, this campground positions you beneath some of the Appalachians' most dramatic peaks.
About Mountain Camping in Tennessee
Mountain camping in Tennessee offers some of the most spectacular and diverse alpine experiences in the southeastern United States, from the towering peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains to the rugged wilderness of Cherokee National Forest. The state's eastern border rises dramatically along the Appalachian chain, creating a paradise for campers seeking elevation, cooler temperatures, and breathtaking vistas.
Best Time
The prime season for mountain camping in Tennessee runs from late April through October, with each period offering distinct advantages. Late spring (April-May) brings spectacular wildflower blooms, rushing waterfalls fed by snowmelt, and comfortable temperatures in the 60s-70s, though occasional rain showers are common.
Scenery Highlights
- Stunning mountain panoramas
- Cool alpine temperatures
- Alpine lakes and meadows
- World-class hiking trails
Explore Mountain Camping in Tennessee
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve Great Smoky Mountains National Park campgrounds exactly six months in advance through recreation.gov when booking windows open, as sites at Cades Cove and Smokemont fill within minutes.
- 2For Cherokee National Forest campgrounds, booking 2-3 months ahead is usually sufficient except for holiday weekends.
- 3Pack layers regardless of season—mountain weather changes rapidly, and temperatures can swing 30 degrees between day and night.
- 4Bring a quality sleeping bag rated for at least 40°F even in summer.
Mountain Camping in Tennessee FAQ
We've ranked 20+ mountain campgrounds in Tennessee based on elevation, scenery, and access to trails. Top options offer stunning alpine views and cool summer temperatures.
Mountain camping in Tennessee requires preparation for cooler temperatures and changing weather. Bring layers, be prepared for afternoon storms, and allow time for altitude acclimation at higher elevations.
Mountain camping season in Tennessee typically runs June through September, though lower elevations may be accessible earlier. Snow can linger at higher elevations into July.
Popular Tennessee Campgrounds Book Fast
The best mountain camping in Tennessee book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Indian Boundary
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- Search 20+ mountain camping in Tennessee
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