Kayak, Camp, Repeat: The Best Spots for Paddle-In Camping
There’s something special about pulling up to camp not by car, but by kayak. The paddle slows you down, makes you notice the shoreline, and by the time you pull your boat onto the bank, you’re already in tune with nature. Tennessee (and beyond) is full of incredible places where paddling and camping come together — and I’ve been lucky enough to explore some of them.
Here’s my guide (and a few stories) from some of the best kayak-friendly camping spots.
🌅 Nashville – Percy Priest Lake (Island Camping)
The Experience: Imagine paddling out as the sun sets, your gear packed in dry bags, and setting up camp on your very own island. Percy Priest offers that kind of adventure — close to the city, but it feels worlds away.
Travel Tip: Summer weekends can get busy. Paddle out early for the best island spots, and don’t forget a lantern for those lakeside nights.
🌊 Polk County – Lower Ocoee
The Experience: Known for its rapids, the Ocoee also has spots where you can pull over and camp. After a day of paddling, falling asleep to the sound of rushing water is unbeatable.
Travel Tip: Best for experienced paddlers — the river can be intense. Bring a sturdy tent that can handle damp riverbanks.
🏞️ Norris – Norris Lake (Loyston Boat Launch)
The Experience: Wide open waters, tree-covered hills, and starry skies. Norris Lake is perfect if you love long paddles followed by quiet nights on the shore.
Travel Tip: Early fall is magical here — crisp air, colorful leaves, and fewer crowds.
🚣 Sevierville – Douglas Lake
The Experience: With mountain views in the distance, Douglas Lake is a favorite for a mix of kayaking and camping. Paddle by day, camp under the stars by night.
Travel Tip: Spring and fall are best. In summer, water levels fluctuate due to dam release.
🌲 Blount & Monroe Counties – Calderwood Lake (Tunnel Camp)
The Experience: Paddling into Calderwood Lake feels like stepping into a hidden world. Remote and quiet, it’s a dream for those who want to disconnect. Camping near the historic tunnel makes it feel like you’ve discovered a secret spot.
Travel Tip: Bring all your supplies — no shops or rentals nearby.
🏜️ Utah – Glen Canyon
The Experience: Out west, Glen Canyon offers a completely different vibe. Red cliffs tower above the water, and nights are warm under desert skies. It’s a bucket-list paddle-camp experience.
Travel Tip: Best from late spring to early fall. Bring extra water and sun protection.
🦆 Murfreesboro – Duck River (Lucky Duck Rentals)
The Experience: A friendly river with calm currents, perfect for families or new paddlers. Renting gear makes it easy, and plenty of sandbars invite overnight camping.
Travel Tip: Great for weekend getaways. Pack lightweight gear — you’ll likely want to move camps as you float downstream.
🌄 Winchester – Tims Ford State Park (Turkey Creek Campground)
The Experience: A mix of lake paddling and state park camping. I loved waking up to mist rising off the water before paddling out for the day.
Travel Tip: Reservations are recommended in summer — Turkey Creek fills up quickly.
🌳 Ozarks – Missouri / Arkansas
The Experience: This one was pure wilderness. With winding rivers, caves, and bluffs, paddling through the Ozarks felt like stepping back in time. Camping under the stars here is unforgettable.
Travel Tip: Late spring is perfect — good water levels and vibrant greenery.
🌊 Waynesboro – Buffalo River (Crazy Horse)
The Experience: Known for its laid-back paddling, the Buffalo River is all about floating with friends and setting up camp along the sandy banks. It’s a classic Tennessee river-camping experience.
Travel Tip: Summer is best for groups, but spring and fall offer quieter, more peaceful trips.
🧭 Final Thoughts
Kayak camping isn’t just about where you sleep — it’s about how you get there. Every paddle stroke carries you closer to adventure, and by the time you set up camp, you’re already part of the landscape. From island camping near Nashville to desert nights in Glen Canyon, every trip leaves a story worth telling.
So pack light, paddle far, and find your perfect spot where water meets wilderness.
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