Columbia, TN, is a nice little town only about 45 minutes away from Nashville. If you’re looking for a good place to camp in the area, there are lots of places to choose from, with a variety of amenities. Read on to learn more.
If you find yourself wondering about the best camping spots in Columbia, Tennessee, you’re in for a treat! The region offers many stunning locations to pitch your tent and embrace the beauty of nature.
Located in the heart of Tennessee, Columbia is a charming city with a rich history and various outdoor recreational opportunities. Whether you’re an avid hiker, fisherman, or just looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, the area surrounding Columbia is home to several beautiful campgrounds that offer a chance to reconnect with nature.
You may be surprised to learn that Nashville actually has beaches! If you want to sneak in some sun and sand while you’re in the area, you may enjoy my post on the Best Beaches in Nashville.
Quick Guide: Columbia, TN Camping
Henry Horton State Park
4209 Nashville HWY
Chapel Hill, TN 37034
Open 7AM to dark
931-364-2222
Reservations 1-888-TN-PARKS
Located in the heart of Tennessee, Henry Horton State Park is a natural oasis that offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the stunning landscapes of the state. Established in 1963, the park spans over 1,140 acres and is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkey, and foxes.
The park’s namesake, Henry Horton, was a former governor of Tennessee who believed in the importance of preserving the state’s natural beauty. The park was built on his former estate, which has been restored and is now open as a Bed and Breakfast.
About the Campground
There are a variety of camping options at Henry Horton. They are spread out among two sites: the Main Campground and the Primitive Campground.
The Main Campground has over campsites with water and electrical hookups, as well as 10 tent-only sites. The campsites are situated in a wooded area and offer picnic tables, fire rings, and grills for cooking. There is also a camp store, bathrooms and shower facilities, and plenty of parking.
For visitors looking for a more secluded camping experience, the Primitive Campground offers a number of sites without electricity or water hookups. The sites are located in a wooded area along the Duck River and offer a more rustic camping experience. The campground features vault toilets and a water spigot for drinking water.
Visitors can reserve campsites up to a year in advance by phone or online, and prices vary depending on the season and type of site. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the outdoors, camping at Henry Horton State Park is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Tennessee.
Activities
There are plenty of great activities at Henry Horton, including hiking, golfing, and paddling.
Hiking
The park offers over 10 miles of hiking trails that wind through the park’s beautiful forests and along the Duck River. Hiking trails include easy, moderate, and difficult trails.
Easy Trails
- Hickory Ridge Loop Trail – 1.50 Miles
- Henry Horton Greenway – 0.25 Miles
- Wetland Trail – 0.95 Miles
- Wild Turkey Trail – 1.70 Miles
Moderate Trails
- Adeline Wilhoite River Trail Loop – 1.65 Miles
- Hickory Ridge Outer Loop Trail – 1.25 Miles
Golfing
The Buford Ellington championship golf course at Henry Horton State Park is one of the park’s main attractions. Designed by noted golf course architect Joe Lee, the 18-hole course is named after Buford Ellington, a former governor of Tennessee who was instrumental in the development of the park. The course features Bermuda grass fairways and greens, and is known for its challenging layout and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
The course is suitable for both beginners and experienced golfers, with multiple tee boxes and a range of hole lengths to accommodate different skill levels. In addition to the main course, the facility also includes a practice range and putting green, as well as a pro shop that stocks a wide range of golf equipment and accessories.
Paddling
The park also offers guided river floats along the Duck River during the summer. The tour lasts about 2 hours and is great for all experience levels.
Chickasaw Trace Park
1419 New Hwy 7
Columbia, TN 38401
Chickasaw Trace Park (CTP) is a 300-acre park located just outside of Columbia, Tennessee. Also situated along the Duck River, which is known for its beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife, this park offers a wide range of outdoor recreational activities for visitors of all ages and interests.
About the campground
Chickasaw State Park boasts three campgrounds to accommodate a variety of visitors. The RV campground offers 53 sites, complete with water and electrical hookups, and some sites even offer full hookups with sewer. Meanwhile, the tent campground provides 29 sites with access to water.
For equestrian enthusiasts, the wrangler campground features 32 sites with water and electrical hookups designed for those traveling with horses. All campsites feature picnic tables and grills, and modern bathhouses are available for hot showers and restroom facilities. Additionally, the RV campground includes a dump station, and each campground features a playground for added entertainment.
Activities
Activities available at Chickasaw include hiking, road and mountain biking, and paddling. There is also golf and horseback riding.
Hiking
There are a variety of hiking trails to choose from. Here they are, by difficulty.
Easy Trails
- Fern Creek Trail 0.65 Miles
- Lake Lajoie Trail 1.80 Miles
- Lake Shore Trail 1.75 Miles
- Tent Loop Trail 0.8 Miles
Moderate Trails
- Forked Pine Trail 0.95 Miles
- Friends Trail 1.20 Miles
- Owens Spring Trail 0.80 Miles
Biking
You can bike on the road and also bike on numerous trails in the Chickasaw State Forest. Check out more info here.
Paddling
The park boasts a pair of magnificent 54-acre lakes that are ideal for paddling. Lake Placid is situated in the primary section of the park and is accessible to the general public throughout the year. From Memorial Day until the first weekend in August, as well as on weekends until October 16, the boat dock is available.
During this period, kayaks, canoes, SUPs, and pedal boats can be rented at the boat dock. Personal kayaks and canoes can be launched from the boat dock at any time of the year.
Lake LaJoie, on the other hand, is located 8 miles west of the park within the Lake LaJoie Group Camp. When the Group Camp is unoccupied, Lake LaJoie is open to the general public. Personal canoes and kayaks are permitted during this time, but please contact the park office to confirm availability.
Golfing
This remarkable 18-hole golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus Signature is both challenging and rewarding. Golfers will immediately appreciate the exceptional attention to detail that only the legendary golfer-turned-designer could provide. From the course layout to the stunning natural surroundings, this par 72 golf course is unlike any other in the region.
The log cabin-style clubhouse offers a comfortable haven to unwind and socialize before or after your round. Guests can enjoy refreshments in the dining area or lounge on one of the couches by the magnificent stone fireplace. There is also a wonderful veranda you can kick back and relax on.
Horseback Riding
Chickasaw State Park offers five miles of horse trails, and the surrounding Chickasaw Forest has hundreds of miles of trails for visitors to explore. You can bring your own horse or rent a horse ride over at the stable.
The park also has a wrangler campground, which offers 32 sites specifically designed for visitors traveling with horses.
Bone’s Canoe and Campground
16520 Bakerville Rd
Hurricane Mills, TN 37078
(931) 209-5908
Bone’s Canoe and Campground is about one hour outside of Columbia. They offer camping on a first-come, first-serve basis. They do not take reservations. They are located right on the Buffalo River, along what the owners call the most beautiful part, and they are among the only campsites there!
Camping
The campground offers various camping options, including riverfront sites or cozy spots amid lush greenery. Connect with nature and embrace the peaceful ambiance by setting up a camp along the banks of the picturesque Buffalo River.
Paddling
The main attraction here is definitely the paddling. Bone’s offers canoe and kayak rentals as well as a shuttle service so you can take a nice leisurely paddle downriver. If you rent with them, the rental includes a shuttle service.
They also rent rafts, which is really cool and not offered at many other places! Children 5 and up are allowed on canoes and kayaks. No glass beer bottles or styrofoam coolers.
Stoney Creek Travel Park (Formerly Texas T Campground)
2499 Lynnville Hwy
Cornersville, TN 37047-5124
Texas T Campground is in Cornerville, TN. It is a year-round camping destination only 28 miles from Columbia. Texas T Campground is now known by its new name, Stoney Creek Travel Park, and is under new management.
Please note Stoney Creek is an RV Campground – tent camping is not allowed here.
Modern Amenities
The campground provides essential amenities, including a bathroom with hot showers and a well-stocked camp store where you can buy ice cream or cold beverages to treat yourself after a day of adventure.
Many campsites at Texas T Campground offer free Wi-Fi and cable TV, allowing you to stay entertained and connected with the world. The warm and friendly environment at the campground will make you feel right at home.
Proximity to The Music City
Situated midway between two cities, Cornerville and Nashville, Texas T Campground provides a strategic location for campers to explore the Music City. Other nearby attractions include Grand Ole Opry, famous for its country music performances, the iconic Jack Daniels Distillery, and Space Center. Additionally, the campground offers plenty of dining and shopping options nearby, ensuring that you can make the most of your visit.
Beyond popular attractions, the campground offers access to numerous area events held throughout the year and various interests of historical sites, adding charm and appeal to your camping experience.
Premium RV sites
The campground offers 40 premium RV sites, all designed as pull-throughs with full hookups, ensuring a hassle-free experience for campers. Texas T Campground offers cozy cabin accommodations for those without an RV, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their stay.
So, whether you’re traveling with an RV or looking for a cabin retreat, Texas T Campground welcomes you to enjoy a memorable and enjoyable experience in the picturesque town of Tennessee.
Nashville Koa Resort Campground
2626 Music Valley Dr
Nashville, TN 37214
Located about 50 miles away from Columbia, TN, Nashville Koa Resort Campground offers a carefree getaway in the great outdoors.
As part of the Kampgrounds of America (KOA) network, this KOA campgrounds location offers a wonderful camping experience with a blend of modern amenities and proximity to downtown Nashville’s vibrant attractions.
Deluxe RV Sites and Cabins
The resort offers a range of accommodations to suit different preferences. From deluxe RV sites with KOA Patios to cozy cabins with full baths and linens, you can choose the options that fit your camping style.
Resort-Style Amenities
The campground provides an array of amenities to enhance your camping experience. It features an activity park, playground, hammocks, lounge area, basketball court, bicycle rentals, and an inviting resort-style pool for the whole family.
The Notes Cafe, a full on-site restaurant, serves delicious meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, providing a convenient dining option for campers. The campground offers a variety of family-friendly activities and entertainment options, including live music performances by the pool and guided recreational activities by the pool.
Downtown Shuttle
Nashville KOA Resort offers a downtown shuttle service to Music City, making it convenient for campers to explore the city’s attractions and events without worrying about driving or parking.
Local Attractions
Staying at Nashville KOA Resort allows you to experience the best of Music City. You can easily explore the city’s iconic landmarks like Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium and visit trendy areas like The Gulch. You may like exploring The Greenways, which connect the neighboring areas and shopping sites, or visiting the Cheekwood Estates and Gardens, a beautiful botanical garden and museum.
After exploring Nashville’s hiking trails, return to Nashville KOA Resort for a peaceful evening of relaxation and recovery before your next adventure.
Whether you’re an experienced camper or new to camping, this campground offers a welcoming and comfortable environment for a memorable getaway.
Meriwether Lewis Campground
Natchez Trace Parkway
Hohenwald, TN
Located in Hohenwald, TN, Meriwether Lewis Campground offers a delightful camping experience amidst picturesque landscapes and a rich historical background.
Historical Significance
Located at milepost 358.9 on the historic Natchez Trace Parkway, the campground holds great historical significance. The campground was named after the renowned explorer Meriwether Lewis, a prominent member of the Lewis and Clark expedition.
Visitors can explore the pioneer cemetery, exhibits, and a section of Old Natchez Trace, adding to the rich historical background of the campground.
Campground Features
Campground map: https://www.nps.gov/natr/planyourvisit/camping.htm
Meriwether Lewis Campground features 32 well-spaced-out campsites, perfect for RVs, trailers, and tent camping. The sites do not have hookups, but each site is equipped with a table, fire pit, and grate. Large trees provide ample shade, adding to the overall comfort and ambiance of the camping area.
The campground features many amenities such as drinking water and both the vault and flush toilets and trash collection services for the convenience of campers.
One of the most attractive features of the campground is that it is entirely free, with a maximum stay of 14 days, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Recreation and Activities
The campground offers a range of outdoor activities for adventure lovers, like hiking, biking, beach activities, fishing, bird watching, mountain biking, nature trails, walking trails, wildlife viewing, and photography. These activities allow campers to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of the area.
Nearby Attractions
Meriwether Lewis Campground is conveniently situated 30 miles from Columbia, 59 miles from Nashville, 73 miles from Huntsville, and 125 miles from Chattanooga.
The campground provides easy access to Natchez Trace Parkway, offering scenic drives and picturesque landscapes.
For history lovers, there are numerous nearby historical sites to explore, like Fall Hollow Falls and the Elephant Discovery Museum. David Crockett State Park and Rocky Springs Campground (at Milestone 54) are nearby camping options.
Reservation and Availability
The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis for campsite reservations. It requires no advanced reservations, allowing visitors to plan their visit more spontaneously. Campers have a choice of pull–through and back-in sites, offering flexibility to accommodate various camping preferences. As a popular destination, the campground experiences its peak seasons during the spring and fall, particularly during holiday weekends.
So, whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat in nature or an adventure-filled getaway, the campground promises a wonderful camping adventure for all.
Campers RV Park
Photo: http://campersrvtn.com
1792 Bear Creek Pike
Columbia, TN 38401
Nestled in Maury County, Campers RV Park boasts picturesque surroundings that add to the tranquility of your stay. Campers RV Park offers a range of amenities and a prime location to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable.
Park Amenities and Facilities
Campers RV Park offers a range of amenities, including Wifi to stay connected and share your adventure, swimming pools, hot showers, a dump station, and more. The park also features pavilions for celebrations or gatherings and an outdoor stage to enjoy performances in the open-air setting.
Campers RV Park offers tent sites, RV sites, and cozy cabins. All RV sites at the park are equipped with full hookups, providing campers with essential amenities and conveniences during their stay. The park offers 30 and 50-amp connections to meet varying needs. Campers RV Park also offers short-term monthly rentals for non-local individuals working in the region.
Nearby Activities
Conveniently located off I-65, Campers RV Park is a great place for travelers passing through or visiting the Maury County area in Tennessee. The campground location allows easy access to various outdoor activities, including hiking, exploring historical sites, visiting museums, dining at local restaurants, shopping, enjoying state parks, and indulging in wine-tasting experiences at nearby wineries.
Proximity to Popular Attractions
The campground is located south of Williamson County, near Spring Hill, which is teeming with historic charm.Take the opportunity to explore Historic Franklin and Brentwood, and take in the beautiful tree-lined streets. You can enjoy places like the Franklin Theater, get coffee at High Brow Coffee, or head to one of Franklin’s many boutiques, like the Purple Butterfly.
The Bottom Line
Columbia, TN, and its surrounding areas offer a variety of excellent campgrounds, each offering its unique charm and experiences. From historical significance and scenic landscapes to recreational activities and modern conveniences, these campgrounds offer a memorable and enjoyable camping experience in the heart of Tennessee. Whether you prefer tent camping, RV sites, lodges, or cabins, there are accommodation options for everyone.
