The best camping near Savage Gulf State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Savage Gulf State Park adventure.

Camp among sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, and deciduous forests on the Cumberland Plateau.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Savage Gulf State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Savage Gulf State Park

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Fireside Camp + Lodge

30 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents22 acres · Sequatchie, TN

Tucked away on Sequatchie Mountain, this little campground and hostel invites you to experience some of East Tennessee's best parks for climbing and hiking. Cliffs and waterfalls are minutes away at near by Foster Falls, Denny Cove and Castle Rock. The hostel offers 3 bedrooms, fast internet, complete kitchen, comfortable beds, smart TV, fire pit, and laundry. The campground offers dispersed sites with fire pits and picnic tables, as well as clean bathrooms and a communal barn with a microwave, fridge, games, tables and chairs. You can walk our 22 acres and even take a short hike out to our bluff. Make sure to say "Hi" to our chickens and our barn cat, Strawberry, on the way. Add in the view of the stars and that makes this the perfect basecamp after a long day out.

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Quail Run Farm

19 sites · Lodging, Tents120 acres · Chattanooga, TN

We have a working farm with sweeping views of Lookout mountain and only 12 minutes from all the comforts of downtown Chattanooga. Our expansive 120-acre property provides campers with the freedom to choose their camping spots anywhere on the farm. Farm animals include horses, cattle, hogs, chickens, goats, bees, stocked ponds, gardens and much more. We have strategically placed signs throughout the property to help you identify potential neighbors. If you desire the company of ducks, consider setting up camp near our picturesque duck pond. For those who prefer the rustic crowing of roosters to a phone alarm, we have four chicken coops dispersed across the farm. Our horses freely roam the front pastures. The cows enjoy grazing on lush grass and taking refreshing dips in the ponds. They also relish watching the sunset from the hill's vantage point, as it offers the best view on the farm. We are a working farm with staff tending to various jobs throughout the day. We have a map to show some of the popular locations campers have enjoyed in the past, but it is first come first serve. We intentionally leave some of our fields uncut. In some fields, the grass can come up above the knees. If you are picky with the grass, these are pastures on a farm and we do not cut them. We leave that to the animals to take care of. All of our staff are super friendly and happy to help guide you to the best camping spot and answer any questions. In searching for your campsite please note that there may be livestock in and around certain areas as we rotate pastures. Please respect farm rules and do not camp in a pasture with cattle and do not enter any gated area without speaking to someone on the farm who knows which fields the cattle is in. Potable well water can be located from the blue spigot outside of the staff housing area, in between the orange and green tiny home, and outside the outdoor shower. Fire rings and chopped wood are ready for you to borrow and return by the outdoor shower area. Our outdoor shower is located by the yurts. If you are interested in a more posh experience, we have yurts and tiny homes for rent. We have a pool that is available to rent privately during your stay. You can use the Swimply app to book your time or you can message us through HipCamp, and we can set that up for you. Embracing farm life is not just an adventure but also a valuable learning opportunity, whether you're a family or an individual seeking a taste of the countryside lifestyle. We hope to see you soon on the farm!

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Beech Hollow Hideout

2 sites · Lodging100 acres · Dowelltown, TN

Peaceful healing property. We do organic gardening and have animals that you can visit with as well. I have a sculpture studio and art sales gallery that you can come check out. We've been living off the grid for over 30 years. Come visit us and learn about our way of life! Enjoy complete privacy in a cozy forest retreat hut in a beautiful hollow in Middle Tennessee. Accommodates 2. Pretty steep 200 yd uphill hike to hut. Perfect for relationship getaway, spiritual retreat, or writing - planning intensive. Nationally-known spelunking (Indian Grave Point Cave) within 1/2 mile. 3 miles from Center Hill Lake. Hiking trails. Experience our alternative lifestyle with owner built solar log home, organic gardens and sculpture studio. Guests must arrive before dark to ensure finding correct address (GPS errs at last moment) and to facilitate hike up to hut. Potable water, trash disposal, and a toilet are available on site. Pets are permitted, as well as campfires (outside of burn bans). Guests love staying here: "Wow! This place is amazing, beautiful, peaceful, relaxing, and super cozy on cold nights. I can not recommend this place enough. William is a gracious host. He made sure I had enough wood for the wood stove and spring water to drink. If you are anywhere close and want a totally unique experience check this place out."

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The Falls at Sewanee Creek

11 sites · Lodging, Tents45 acres · Tracy City, TN

45 private acres on our homestead for you to roam. Seven eclectic sites to choose from ranging from primitive camping to a lovely log cabin. All except the log cabin lovingly built by the owner, loaded with creative touches. Featuring: * Two gorgeous waterfalls. Each of our stay-sites are located within about 100-150 yards of Fifty-foot tall Miller’s Falls. * A large cave at the end of a short, but rugged hike. * A fairy Village filled with Hollow Oak Tree Fairy homes. The trees glow after dark. Magical. * Three acres for group camping centered on a well-equipped, covered outdoor kitchen. * Peaceful Meditation Retreats at the Outdoor Kitchen under brain-wave enhancing satellite dishes. * Certified Hypnotherapy Disclaimer: The flow of the waterfall is subject to fluctuations in temperature, seasonal droughts, & rain fall. The most favorable seasons for waterfall flow are fall, winter & early spring. We came to this magical place to found a self-reliant, homesteading eco-community when I retired from corporate life in 2006. It's called the Village on Sewanee Creek, named for the creek 800 feet below the bluff where we are located. I traveled the world as a senior executive for Baskin-Robbins, Dunkin' Donuts, Papa Johns, Blockbuster, 7-Eleven and other retail franchises, making the world safe for Pizza, Ice Cream, Pancakes Video Rentals and American convenience. And I was ready for something more fufilling. I scouted for a place of exquisite natural beauty and I found it here. I bought way too much land just before the real estate bust and learned how to turn a nice fortune into a very small one. I faced challenges and had lots of fun. Now I want to share our experience. It's the Village 2.0 for guests. Or not. Life in the city is OK as long as you can get away frequently. I'm convinced if you love nature and the outdoors, this is the best place to celebrate it.

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Elk Head Overlook

4 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Pelham, TN

**Please note the address is 9665 SR 50, Pelham, TN 37301** The best part about this site are the views! Relax on the side of the Cumberland Plateau while overlooking Burroughs Cove and the Elk River. Need firewood? Please let us know at least 48 hours prior to arrival and we can coordinate to have it delivered to your campsite before you arrive, enough wood for the night (and then some) $35. Specific Details: **Please note the address is 9665 SR 50, Pelham, TN 37301** You can see the sites from the main road, different maps (Google/Apple/etc.) show slight variations such as 9665 SR-50 or 9665 TN-50. If you find yourself on a gravel road for more than 50ft, STOP and verify the address. There is an electrical box at each end of the graveled parking area (Sites 1 and 2) with 20- and 30-amp plugs, plus 110v. If the power is not working, please check the panel and turn on/reset the breakers, many of our guests turn them off when departing. If you are at Site #2 and the steps above do not work, please check/do the same at the Site #1 panel (it is the master power source). Water is NOT available on site. NOTE: Depending on the time of year (warmer months only) a water container with a limited amount of NON-POTABLE water is on site for your use. Please plan on filling your water reservoir(s) PRIOR to arriving at the site. There is an outhouse for all guests, and picnic tables and fire rings for Sites 1 and 2. We are located just minutes away from The Caverns, South Cumberland State Park, Bigfoot Adventures, and many other outdoor attractions and hiking opportunities. The graveled camping area is fairly close to SR-50 so please expect to hear some road noise, more so in the winter months. The entrance/driveway is on a small incline, if you are traveling with a light vehicle and a heavy camper, its best to maintain a slow and steady speed to the camp site (for almost everyone, this is not an issue). If you are towing a camper, we recommend the total length of the vehicle and the trailer not exceeding 30ft, longer set ups can (and have been used) without issue. However, there is not a significant place to "turn around" at the sites and novice drivers (not used to backing out of tight spots with long rigs) may find this very challenging. Need firewood? Please let us know at least 48 hours prior to arrival and we will attempt to coordinate having it delivered to your campsite before you arrive, enough wood for the night (and then some) $35. This is a 3rd party service and not always available, please be proactive and plan accordingly. There is a double gate that is usually closed, and latched so it stays closed, it is not "locked". The site is self-serve (not manned), Site #1 is to the left, Site #2 is to the right, and Site #3 is down the path past the outhouse at the bottom of the path. It is recommended that campers set up early for Site 3 (still daylight) to get an idea of the layout. Parking for Site #3 is by the shed at the main entrance and power is not available at the site.

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South Suckcreek Campground

20 sites · RVs, Tents22 acres · Chattanooga, TN

Learn more about this land: Enjoy sunset views of the mountains, plus trails for bicycling, motorcycle riding, 4-wheelers nearby. Set on a low traffic road at the foot of the mountain, this property is close to Prentice Cooper State Forest. Find kayak rentals at the foot of the mountain!

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Magnolia Campground at Hixson Farms

5 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Chickamauga, GA

Are you trying to talk your spouse into moving to a farm and starting your own homestead? Come spend time on a real working farmstead. Spend your days petting goats, feeding snacks to the pigs, and listening to cows moo in the field. Collect your own eggs from the coop and fresh veggies from the garden. Meet Fergus and Ellie, our Scottish Highland calves. Then hang out by the campfire or swing in a hammock in the evenings. Take a tour of our 12 acres and learn the ins and outs of homesteading. We are a first-generation farm and we love sharing our passion. You’ll be picking out a farm of your own in no time! Includes 30 or 50 amp hook-ups, septic, water, and wi-fi. Just a few miles from Cloudland Canyon State Park and historic downtown Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Chickamauga, Georgia.

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Eads Bluff Farm

41 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Georgetown, TN

You won’t find a better view anywhere with easy access from interstate 75. Enjoy all kinds of water sports while you’re just 20 minutes from shopping and restaurants in Charlston TN. Up nTo Six guest on this site Kayaks for rent so bring your camping gear and camp with us take a look at Eads Bluff Overlook.. Don't forget to bring your pets as they make any campfire so much better. https://youtu.be/pPBPh2Hdy-o

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Raccoon Mountain Caverns and Campground

95 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Chattanooga, TN

Here in Lookout Valley, you’ll have access to stunning views, top-notch amenities, and dedicated, hardworking staff that provides exceptional hospitality. Whether you’re camping with us, staying in one of our beautiful cabins, or taking a tour of our spectacular caverns, you’ll love the tranquility of our retreat. Experience the wonder of a natural underground world at Raccoon Mountain Caverns! Rated as the #1 ‘Thing To Do’ in Chattanooga on TripAdvisor, with over 5.5 miles of passageways, our caverns boast an incredibly well-preserved landscape filled with countless natural formations. Considered one of the most geologically active caverns in the south, you’ll be amazed by the beauty that surrounds you. Don’t miss out on this adventure!

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Greeter Falls Campground

66 sites · RVs, Tents24 acres · Altamont, TN

Greeter Falls Campground is open for business! We want to welcome all you happy campers to our timberland escape. Greeter Falls Campground is located less than a half mile from the Greeter Falls Trailhead, adjacent to the 16,000 acre Savage Gulf State Park offering over 50 miles of well-marked trails for every skill level. The .08 mile Greeter Falls Trail loop connects you to three awe inspiring waterfalls as well as the nearby Blue Hole swimming area. We offer many recreational options to help you enjoy the area including Primitive Tent spots, furnished Yurts (Bell Tents) and RV/Travel Trailer sites (each with electrical and water hook-ups). Unlike many RV camps where sites are over-packed into a cramped trailer park setting, all our sites are ensconced within sparsely inhabited raw timberland; with less than 3 sites per acre versus an average of 10-15 nationally. Currently we offer over 50 campsites: 25 RV Sites: - 12 Premium RV and Travel Trailer Sites - FHU with Septic and/or "Pull Thru". - 11 Regular RV Sites with standard electric/water hook ups - 2 Premium RV Sites with Small Private Dog Parks 8 Furnished Yurts (Glamping) Sites– on Wooden Platforms with Porches: - 4 11' x 11' Square Military Style Command Tents - 4 16' x 16' Square Military Style Squad Tents 17 Primitive Tent Sites: - 5 Primitive Tent Spots – Solo/Duo - 5 Primitive Tent Spots – Group/Family - 4 Primitive Tent Spots - Deluxe Group/Family with Water/Power - 3 Deluxe Group/Family Tent Spots on Main Campus with wooden platforms Come to Greeter Falls Campground to Retreat, Relax, Be Refreshed & Get Renewed Here is some useful information: • If you have any questions or need additional information, please Call: Our Camp Hostess at 1-800-MTN-CAMP (800-686-2267) Or by Email: Camp@GreeterFalls.com • Greeter Falls Campground Website: Greeter: https://greeterfalls.com • Greeter Falls Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greeterfalls/?hl=en • Directions Via Google/Apple Maps: Greeter Falls Campground. 180 Greeter Falls Road North, Altamont TN 37301 Thanks. We Look forward to seeing you soon!

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Hammock’Sway Off Grid & Private

29 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents37 acres · Spencer, TN

Get Lost or Find Yourself. Sway Camping is a private, Off Grid camping experience in Rock Island TN. Situated between Isha Yoga center, Fall Creek Falls, and Rock Island state park, this property is something special. Each campsite offers a private space perfect for getting away, or large enough for family and groups. Pet Friendly property with lots of room to be a part of nature along the beautiful Rocky River. Camp along the river or up in your own private forest. One of the darkets skies around so be ready for some stargazing at night by the fire. This is a property I purchased in 2018 to create a camping experience that reflected the image of camping as a kid. This isn’t a "hotel without walls." This is real camping. No phone signal. No electric wires. Just nature and beauty in a quiet environment. Get lost or find yourself relaxing along the Rocky River. Stay in a hammock, a tent, camper, RV, or one of our cabins. Privacy and freedom is what we are about. Pet friendly camping that should be shared, but please don't tell everyone you know. Only your favorite people.. Then come camp!

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Broken Banjo

64 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Manchester, TN

The Broken Banjo RV park Come by way of Nashville or from Chattanooga – we’re halfway between, in the middle of the Secret Smokies, our name for a sequestered wonderland of waterfalls and caves, fantastic formations and bountiful wildlife. Enjoy swimming, splashing, fishing and lawn games, and campfires made for campfire songs. As many ways to stay as there are to play! From cabins to tepees and safari tents, plus campsites for your RV, trailer, or tent – if it’s camping and you want to try it, it’s here. The accommodations are ample, and we’re very strategic in locating the conveniences, close and easy to get to, whether you’re driving your home, pulling it or pitching it. All RV sites are pull-throughs with water, electric and sewer and 20/30/50-amp electric service options. Lodging options include: camping cabins, deluxe cabins, treehouse, teepee, glamping, covered wagon, patios. Please note that not all accommodations are pet friendly. Please check the listing description. Individual tent sites: pond side, creek side and wooded, include pond side grass and sand pads, service options.

The best camping near Savage Gulf State Park guide

Overview

About

Tennessee’s Savage Gulf State Park spans some 19,000 acres around the Savage Gulf State Natural Area and along the western shelf of the Cumberland Plateau. The park’s soaring sandstone cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and deciduous forests make a gorgeous backdrop for hiking, camping, and rock climbing. The nine campgrounds are made up of a mix of walk-in and backcountry sites with no drive-up options. These campgrounds are distributed around 60 miles of hiking trails that interlace the park’s vistas, springs, and historic sites like Stagecoach Road. A standout feature of the park is the Great Stone Door, a towering cliff line that stands sentinel over the Savage Gulf. Its name springs from a giant crack running from the cliff's top to its base, suggesting the image of a giant door left slightly ajar. The nearest town is Beersheba Springs, while Chattanooga is an 80-minute drive away.

Notable campgrounds

Best for walk-in camping: Stone Door and Savage Station campgrounds are just a few hundred yards from the parking area.
Best for backcountry camping: Collins West and Savage Falls campgrounds are both close to waterfalls.
Best for cabin camping: You can stay in a rustic cabin with bunk beds and a fireplace at the Hobbs Cabin Campground.

Tips for snagging a campsite

All Savage Gulf State Park campsites—even those deep in the backcountry—must be reserved in advance. No sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Reservations can be made up to one year in advance, either online or by calling (888) 867-2757.
Because the Stone Door and Savage Station campgrounds have the shortest approach from the parking lot, they tend to book up first.

When to go

Savage Gulf State Park’s peak season is summer, when visitors enjoy temperatures in the mid-80s with some humidity. Impressive spring wildflower and fall foliage displays are compelling reasons to plan a shoulder season trip. Although the park is open year-round, winters are cold, with the possibility of snow and ice. Avoid holiday weekends if you prefer a quieter experience.

Know before you go

With the exception of water stations at Stone Door and Savage Station, no potable water is provided at Savage Gulf campgrounds. This means all water must be carried in or filtered from natural sources. Some of these sources (streams, spring, or falls) are seasonal, so it's best to consult with park rangers about water access both when planning your trip and before heading out. You can reach the park rangers at (931) 692-3887.
Remember to pack out all trash and leave no trace to preserve the park's natural beauty.
Cell service may be limited, so download maps and important information before you arrive.
Hike-in distances to each campground vary—Stone Door and Savage Station are several hundred feet, Collins West is a half-mile, Savage Falls is 1.5 miles, Alum Gap is 2.9 miles, Dinky Line is 3.5 miles, Sawmill is 4.2 miles, Stagecoach Road is 6.1 miles, and Hobbs Cabin is 8.5 miles.
Top-rope climbing is permitted in the Stone Door area. Advanced online registration required. There are additional crags nearby at South Cumberland State Park, and you'll find outdoor/climbing stores in Chattanooga.
If you're looking for the convenience of a drive-up campground, try the nearby South Cumberland State Park.