Spring Camping in Tennessee

Discover the best spring camping across Tennessee. Welcome the new season with spring camping. Wildflowers bloom, waterfalls surge, and nature awakens.

20+ Campgrounds4.6★ AverageBest: March through May

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Featured Campgrounds

Handpicked destinations that define the region

Lillydale Campground And Day Use

Allons · Dale Hollow Lake

Spring transforms Dale Hollow Lake's shoreline into a wildflower-dotted paradise, where mild temperatures invite anglers and boaters onto crystal-clear waters before summer crowds arrive.

4.7(524 reviews)

Ragland Bottom

Sparta · Center Hill Lake

Spring transforms Center Hill Lake's shoreline into a wildflower-lined paradise, where mild temperatures draw fewer crowds to nine miles of hiking trails that lead past rushing waterfalls.

4.7(768 reviews)

Lock A

Ashland City · Cheatham Lock and Dam

Spring transforms the Cumberland River corridor into a wildflower-lined sanctuary where mild temperatures invite anglers to cast for bass and hikers to explore blooming trails without summer's crowds.

4.7(772 reviews)

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About Spring Camping in Tennessee

Spring camping Tennessee offers an exceptional blend of awakening wilderness, pristine waterways, and perfect weather that transforms the Volunteer State into a camper's paradise from March through May. As winter's chill fades and temperatures climb into the comfortable 60s and 70s, Tennessee's diverse landscapes burst into life with blooming dogwoods, redbuds, and wildflowers painting the forests in vibrant colors.

Best Time

The prime window for spring camping Tennessee runs from mid-April through late May, when temperatures consistently reach the 65-75°F range and wildflowers peak throughout the state's forests and meadows. Early April offers cooler conditions (55-65°F) perfect for hiking without crowds, though some higher elevation campgrounds may still be closed.

Season Highlights

Wildflower displays
Flowing waterfalls and streams
Mild, comfortable weather
Fewer crowds than summer

More Spring Camping in Tennessee

Discover 17 additional top-rated spring camping in Tennessee

Dale Hollow Damsite

Celina · Dale Hollow Lake

Spring transforms the Obey River corridor into a vibrant tapestry of blooming dogwoods and redbuds, while mild temperatures draw anglers to uncrowded waters teeming with post-spawn bass.

4.6(372)

Meriwether Lewis Campground, Milepost 385.9

Hohenwald · Natchez Trace Parkway

Spring transforms the surrounding woodlands into a tapestry of wildflowers and fresh greenery, while mild temperatures invite leisurely hikes along the Old Trace without summer crowds.

4.6(357)

Harpeth River Bridge Campground (Tn)

Ashland City · Cheatham Lock and Dam

Spring transforms the Harpeth River's horseshoe bend into a wildflower-lined sanctuary, where comfortable temperatures invite you to paddle calm waters or cast a line from the riverbank.

4.7(250)

Seven Points (Tn)

HERMITAGE · J Percy Priest Lake

Spring transforms the shoreline into a wildflower showcase while mild temperatures draw paddlers and anglers to calm lake waters before summer crowds arrive. Waterfall-fed coves reach peak flow from seasonal rains, and empty campsites mean spontaneous weekend escapes without advance reservations.

4.7(677)

Long Branch

Lancaster · Center Hill Lake

Spring transforms the riverside into a wildflower-lined corridor where dogwoods and redbuds frame the rushing Caney Fork, while mild temperatures bring trophy trout to the surface and keep the trails comfortably uncrowded.

4.6(608)

Chilhowee Campground

Benton · Cherokee National Forest

Spring transforms the trails to Benton Falls into a wildflower-lined path, with cascading waters at peak flow from seasonal runoff. Fewer crowds during shoulder season mean you'll have McKamy Lake's sand beach and 25 miles of mountain trails largely to yourself.

4.6(705)

Bandy Creek

Oneida · Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area

Spring transforms Big South Fork into a wildflower wonderland, where blooming trillium and mountain laurel line trails to thundering waterfalls and historic Mine 18.

4.6(1180)

Defeated Creek Park

Carthage · Cordell Hull Lake

Spring transforms Cordell Hull Lake's shoreline into a wildflower-dotted paradise, where mild temperatures draw fewer crowds yet offer full access to swimming, boating, and miles of hiking trails.

4.6(1297)

Anderson Road Campground

Nashville · J Percy Priest Lake

Spring transforms the lakeside trails into wildflower corridors while mild temperatures draw hikers and anglers before summer crowds arrive. The adjacent fitness trail winds through blooming dogwoods and redbuds, offering peaceful morning walks with frequent deer sightings along the shore.

4.5(327)

Explore Spring Camping in Tennessee

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

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Popular Activities

Spring wildflower viewing and photographyBass and crappie fishing in warming lake watersHiking through blooming forests and along scenic trailsBoating and kayaking on calm spring lakesBird watching during peak migration seasonSwimming at lake beaches as temperatures rise

Tips & Recommendations

1Reserve lakeside sites at popular destinations like Lillydale Campground and Ragland Bottom at least three weeks ahead for April and May weekends, as waterfront locations fill quickly during prime spring fishing season.
2Bring layered clothing—spring mornings can start in the low 50s while afternoons reach the mid-70s, and evening temperatures drop significantly after sunset.
3Pack rain gear and a quality tent footprint, as spring showers occur 2-3 times per week, though they rarely last more than an hour.
4For fishing enthusiasts, bring bass tackle and crappie jigs, as both species become highly active in April and May around lake structures and creek channels.

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Curated for Spring Camping in Tennessee

Spring Camping in Tennessee FAQ

We've ranked 20+ spring campgrounds in Tennessee based on wildflowers, weather, and accessibility. Top options feature blooming landscapes and rejuvenated waterfalls.

Spring camping season in Tennessee typically runs March through May, though opening dates vary by location and elevation. Mountain campgrounds may open later due to snowmelt.

Tennessee offers excellent spring camping with wildflower displays, flowing waterfalls, comfortable temperatures, and fewer crowds than summer. It's perfect for hiking and photography.

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