Go tent camping in Tennessee and you'll see many of the same sights as the earliest pioneers and settlers. Enjoy your chosen park's history along with the surrounding mountains, lakes and wildlife. You can camp in the frontcountry state parks or backcountry national parks. All prices are as of 2010.
Cumberland Gap National Park
Visit Cumberland Gap National Park to get a sense of history and enjoy the outdoors. This is the gateway to the West. Go hiking on more than 85 miles of trails. The trails range in difficulty and length, from a quarter mile to 21 miles. While hiking, keep your eyes open for wildlife including foxes, bears and deer. Camping is available for $12 per night, while hot showers and potable water are available nearby.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers both history and nature. You can find towns that were abandoned after the National Park Service took over the land, like Cades Cove. You can also see wildlife like elk or deer, plus waterfalls and mountains, while hiking, horseback riding or biking. Fees at the park's 10 campgrounds range from $14 to $23 depending on the location and amenities offered. You can also go backcountry camping with just a camping permit.
Chickasaw State Park
Visit Chickasaw State Park and go hiking, biking, boating and horseback riding. Hike through the park and the forest trails or rent a paddle or rowboat and float onto Lake Placid. You can also rent a horse from one of the park's stables and take an hour-long tour around the park. The park features three different campgrounds. The campground specifically for tent camping has water available nearby. Camping costs $20 per night.
David Crockett State Park
David Crockett State Park is named in honor of the former pioneer and politician who hailed from Tennessee. You can enjoy biking on the paved bicycle trail and see wildlife including birds, turkeys and rabbits. Paddleboats are available for rental so you can relax on the water for the day. The park includes more than 100 campsites where you can set up your tent next to a picnic table and a grill. Hot showers and toilets are nearby. Camping costs $20 per night.
Norris Dam State Park
Explore valleys and ridges through the forests of Norris Dam State Park. Go hiking at any time of year and enjoy the views of Norris Lake. You can also swim in one of the public pools or take a boat onto Norris Lake, which features 700 miles of shoreline. The park has two camping areas and more than 70 campsites. Bathhouses and a laundromat are near the campgrounds. Campsites cost $20 per night.
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