Summer Camping in Tennessee
Discover the best summer camping across Tennessee. Experience the best of outdoor camping during the warmest months. Long days, starry nights, and endless adventure await.
Summer Camping in Other States
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Dale Hollow Lake
Dale Hollow Lake's crystal-clear waters lap against 112 campsites where swimmers, boaters, and anglers spend sun-drenched days exploring one of Tennessee's most stunning reservoirs.
Center Hill Lake
The pristine shores of Center Hill Lake deliver endless summer days of waterskiing, swimming from the beach, and boating adventures right from your campsite.
Cheatham Lock and Dam
The Cumberland River flows right past your campsite, offering endless days of fishing, boating, and swimming in cool waters under the warm Tennessee sun.
About Summer Camping in Tennessee
Summer camping in Tennessee offers an extraordinary blend of lake recreation, mountain adventures, and river escapes that make the Volunteer State a premier warm-weather destination. From the crystalline waters of Dale Hollow Lake to the misty gorges of Big South Fork, Tennessee's diverse landscapes provide endless opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking under sunny skies.
Best Time
The prime summer camping season in Tennessee runs from late May through early September, with peak activity occurring during June, July, and August when temperatures are warmest and lake water is most inviting for swimming. June offers the advantage of longer days and slightly smaller crowds before school vacations begin, making it ideal for those seeking a more peaceful experience.
Season Highlights
- Warm weather and long days
- Swimming and water activities
- Full amenities and services
- Family-friendly activities
Campground Locations
Showing top 20 campgrounds near Summer Camping in Tennessee
Plan Your Trips
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve popular lake campgrounds like Lillydale and Ragland Bottom well in advance—holiday weekends often book up 6 months ahead through Recreation.gov.
- 2Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as Tennessee summers can be hot and humid with temperatures reaching the 90s; a pop-up canopy provides valuable shade at open lakeside sites.
- 3Pack insect repellent for evening hours when mosquitoes are most active, particularly near water.
- 4If visiting mountain campgrounds like Bandy Creek, bring layers as temperatures can drop significantly at higher elevations even in summer.
Summer Camping in Tennessee FAQ
Popular Tennessee Campgrounds Book Fast
The best summer camping in Tennessee book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Lillydale Campground And Day Use
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