Fall Camping in Tennessee

Discover the best fall camping across Tennessee. Embrace the magic of autumn camping. Vibrant foliage, crisp air, and campfire nights under the stars.

20+ Campgrounds4.6★ AverageBest: September through November

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Top Picks

Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region

Lillydale Campground And Day Use

Allons · Dale Hollow Lake

Autumn transforms Dale Hollow Lake into a quieter retreat where vibrant foliage frames 112 waterfront campsites and the cooler air creates comfortable conditions for fishing, boating, and lakeside exploration.

4.7(524 reviews)

Ragland Bottom

Sparta · Center Hill Lake

Autumn transforms the 9 miles of hiking trails into a kaleidoscope of color while cool breezes off Center Hill Lake chase away summer's heat and humidity.

4.7(768 reviews)

Indian Boundary

Tellico Plains · Cherokee National Forest

Cherokee National Forest's hardwood canopy erupts in brilliant reds and golds come October, while crisp mountain air and thinner crowds let you savor the 96-acre lake and surrounding trails at your own pace.

4.7(1130 reviews)

About Fall Camping in Tennessee

Fall camping Tennessee offers some of the most spectacular outdoor experiences in the southeastern United States, with vibrant autumn foliage painting the landscape in brilliant shades of gold, crimson, and amber from late September through November. Tennessee's diverse geography creates distinct fall camping experiences, from the misty peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains to the serene shores of highland lakes and the rolling hills of the Cumberland Plateau.

Best Time

Peak fall foliage in Tennessee follows a predictable elevation-based progression, with higher elevations in the Smokies and Cherokee National Forest reaching peak color in mid-October, while lower elevation campgrounds around lakes and rivers peak from late October through early November. The optimal camping window runs from late September through mid-November, with October offering the most reliable combination of comfortable temperatures, vibrant colors, and manageable crowds.

Season Highlights

Stunning fall foliage
Cooler, comfortable temperatures
Fewer crowds and quiet sites
Perfect campfire weather

More Fall Camping in Tennessee

Discover 17 additional top-rated fall camping in Tennessee

Dale Hollow Damsite

Celina · Dale Hollow Lake

Autumn transforms the Obey River corridor into a blaze of color while anglers enjoy trophy smallmouth bass fishing in comfortably cool conditions with far fewer boats on the water.

4.6(372)

Chilhowee Campground

Benton · Cherokee National Forest

The forest erupts in brilliant reds and golds come October, while crisp mountain air and nearly empty trails create an intimate wilderness experience along the 25-mile network leading to Benton Falls.

4.6(705)

Lock A

Ashland City · Cheatham Lock and Dam

Brilliant autumn foliage frames the Cumberland River as temperatures drop into comfortable camping range and summer crowds disappear, leaving peaceful riverside sites and vibrant hiking trails along the Bicentennial route.

4.7(772)

Bandy Creek

Oneida · Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area

Crimson and gold foliage blazes across Big South Fork's gorges while crisp autumn air energizes hikes to Mine 18 and riverside bluffs, all without summer's stifling heat and congestion.

4.6(1180)

Defeated Creek Park

Carthage · Cordell Hull Lake

The brilliant reds and golds reflecting off Cordell Hull Lake create a stunning backdrop as September brings quieter shores and comfortable temperatures for extended hikes and fishing.

4.6(1297)

Long Branch

Lancaster · Center Hill Lake

Fall transforms the Caney Fork River into a trout fisher's paradise, with cool mountain waters drawing trophy browns while crimson and gold leaves drift downstream from the Highland Rim.

4.6(608)

Smokemont Group Campground

Gatlinburg · Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Autumn transforms the surrounding mountains into a spectacular canvas of crimson and gold, while October's crisp air and thinner crowds let you fully immerse in the backcountry tranquility.

4.5(367)

Cades Cove Group

Townsend · Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Brilliant autumn colors blanket the mountain valley as crowds thin and temperatures drop, making wildlife like black bears and deer easier to spot along the famous loop road. Pedal the 11-mile circuit during car-free mornings, then hike through golden forests to thundering Abrams Falls.

4.5(713)

Cades Cove Group Campground

Gatlinburg · Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Brilliant fall colors blaze across the mountain ridges while crisp autumn air brings wildlife like black bears and deer down into the meadows for easier viewing.

4.5(671)

Explore Fall Camping in Tennessee

Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.

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Popular Activities

Fall foliage viewing and scenic drivesHiking through colorful forest trailsLake and river fishing for bass and troutBoating and kayaking on calm autumn watersWildlife watching including deer, turkeys, and migratory birdsPhotography of autumn landscapes

Tips & Recommendations

1Reserve campsites early for October weekends, as Tennessee's fall foliage attracts visitors from across the region—booking three months ahead ensures your preferred dates and locations.
2Pack layered clothing including warm base layers, fleece mid-layers, and waterproof outer shells, as temperatures can drop significantly after sunset, especially at mountain campgrounds where nighttime lows may reach the 30s by late October.
3Bring quality sleeping bags rated for temperatures at least fifteen degrees below the forecast low.
4A reliable campfire setup is essential for fall camping comfort—gather or purchase firewood locally to prevent spreading invasive pests, and check current fire restrictions before your trip.

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Curated for Fall Camping in Tennessee

Fall Camping in Tennessee FAQ

We've ranked 20+ fall campgrounds in Tennessee based on foliage, weather, and reviews. Top options feature stunning autumn colors and comfortable temperatures.

Fall foliage in Tennessee typically peaks during September through November, though timing varies by elevation and latitude. Check local foliage reports for optimal timing.

Tennessee offers excellent fall camping with colorful foliage, mild temperatures, and fewer crowds than summer. Many campgrounds have special fall activities and harvest-season events.

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