Quick Links

Tennessee is known for its stunning mountain retreats and scenic natural wonders that make it ideal for both recreation and relaxation. With a plethora of state parks and an untold number of outdoor activities right on the doorstep of spectacular sights like the Great Smoky Mountains, it’s no wonder vacationers everywhere decide to pack their bags and seek out that TN tranquility during the summer.

And for those that like their retreats a little more luxe and a little less rustic, glamping is the ideal vacation. Often set in out-of-the-way wilderness locations that are still close to all the outdoor activities, Tennessee’s glam camping adventures are chock-full of choices for the intrepid traveler looking for it all: comfort, charm, and a taste of the great outdoors.

RELATED: Board The Ark: This Tennessee Airbnb Is A Boat-Shaped Dream

Get Above It All At Treetop Hideaways

A scenic southern spot just a tick over the Georgia border, Treetop Hideaways is a lovely Lookout Mountain getaway that’s the perfect combo of a mountain retreat and outdoorsy (yet upscale) fun. Self-described as “rustic and refined,” the property’s two tree houses offer the ultimate glamping experience: a cozy yet refined way to ‘rough it’ without sacrificing the comfort and amenities of a boutique lodging experience.

  • Address: 576 Chattanooga Valley Rd, Flintstone, Georgia
  • Rates: Luna Loft $405 and up/night; Elements Tree House $378 and up/night
  • Amenities: Kitchenette stocked with complimentary drinks and snacks, AC, floor-to-ceiling valley views, reclaimed barn wood decor, fire pit, luxe furnishing, nearby trails, linens, and toiletries (Luna Loft); climate-controlled environment, fire pit, kitchenette stocked with complimentary drinks and snacks, private decks, loft room, heated bathroom floors and walk-in shower, linens and toiletries (Elements Treehouse). Onsite massages are also available.
  • What’s Nearby: Downtown Chattanooga; Lookout Mountain attractions, including Ruby Falls, Rock City, and the Incline Railway; Cloudland Canyon State Park (25 minutes)

Little Arrow Outdoor Resort Has A Lodging For Everyone

Surrounded by miles of forested wilderness and nestled amid the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Little Arrow Outdoor Resort is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. Close to all the area action, including hiking, tubing, biking, and wine tasting, this majestic mountain retreat is truly where “wanderlust meets leisure,” and with a number of accommodations to choose from, guests can choose their own lodging adventure, too. The amenities and prices below reflect Little Arrow’s glamping options (two-story canvas lodge and luxury tents); for additional lodgings, see the website for more info.

  • Address: 118 Stables Drive, Townsend, Tennessee
  • Rates: All rates include four guests and one vehicle. Luxury Glamping Lodge rates $175 and up/night; Luxury Glamping Tents rates $162 and up/night.
  • Amenities: Heat and AC; small kitchen with fridge and freezer; fire pit with grill grate; plush bedding; wood-walled, separate living spaces; gas stovetop (lodge only). The resort also has an onsite coffee lounge, pool with grottoes, splash pad, and hot tub; nearby hiking trails; sports courts; dog park; community garden and fire pit; luxury bath houses; and more.
  • What’s Nearby: The great Smoky Mountains National Park; Tuckaleechee Caverns; Dark Island Swinging Bridge

RELATED: 10 Best Glamp Retreats You Can Find In Iowa

A Quirky Dome, A Secluded Spot In Altamont

This Airbnb is more than just the ultimate glamping experience—its a TV star in its own right. Appearing on DIY Network’s “Building off the Grid, this 450-square foot mountaintop geodesic dome by Tennessee Glamping is low-key luxe. The perfect place to bask in that signature TN tranquility, this cozy spot allows guests to soak up the area’s starry skies and wilderness views without sacrificing all the amenities and comfort of a five-star boutique hotel.

  • Address: Altamont, Tennessee
  • Rates: Rates start at $447/night
  • Amenities: Kitchen (microwave, fridge, cooking, and BBQ utensils); outdoor grill and fire pit; heat and AC; wrap-around deck with hot tub; stunning mountain views; pet-friendly; additional fire pit and swings on the bluff below the dome; access to nearby local trails
  • What’s Nearby: Cumberland Caverns; Fiery Gizzard Trail; Greeter Falls

Grandview Camp Is The Best Of Glamping & Farm Life

Grandview Camp at Lemon Lane Farm is a unique glamping experience that has all the charm of a working farm—complete with all the animals that go with it, including pigs, donkeys, bunnies, turkeys, and dogs. But the appeal of Grandview Camp goes so much farther than its barnyard denizens: it’s historic (founded in the 1860s!); it’s picturesque (gardens, pond, rolling hills, and forests); and it offers guests a bevy of beautiful accommodations that are as eclectic as they are inviting. With quirky quaintness and atmosphere to spare, Lemon Lane farm is more than just lodgings; it’s a distinctive experience all its own.

  • Address: 2392 Possum Trot Rd, Grandview, Tennessee
  • Rates:
  • Amenities: All properties have their own distinctive amenities; some of the most common include: toiletries; grill (or camping stove) and fire pit; outdoor picnic area; full kitchen; electric hook-ups (camper and Winnebago), access to onsite trails; indoor fireplace (cowgirl cabin). There is also an onsite outdoor sauna that can be booked in advance. Guests should be aware that these glamping sites are rustic and may not have every modern convenience like running water and power, indoor showers, and plumbing. See the website for more details.
  • What’s Nearby: Lost Sea Caverns; Rhea Springs Lake Park; Cumberland State Park

RELATED: Visit The Unique Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Find Your Inner Hobbit At Forest Gully Farms

These Airbnb, glamping gems from Forest Gully Farms, are not your typical glam camping experiences: think underground huts that even Frodo Baggins would find cozy; secluded, hobbit hole-Esque retreats that give all new meaning to the word getaway. The ultimate vacation experience that allows guests to forage, gather, and farm on a sprawling 15-acre wilderness retreat, this trip is truly one glamping adventure to rule them all.

  • Address: Santa Fe, Tennessee (less than one hour from Nashville)
  • Rates: Starting at $375/night (includes access to all three onsite huts and exclusive access to the property, nearby bathhouse, and laundry room)
  • Amenities: Heat and AC; Full kitchen, cooking basics, and utensils; Charcoal grill; fire pit and outdoor furniture; washer/dryer; toiletries and linens; beautiful forest environment; creek and two small waterfalls
  • What’s Nearby: Jackson Falls; Chickasaw Trace County Park; President James K. Polk Home & Museum

Tennessee is an iconic vacation destination and southern retreat that’s famed for its stunning natural scenery and myriad adventures for any outdoor enthusiast. And for those that want to ‘rough it’ this summer without sacrificing all those creature comforts, glamping is the way to go; and TN is the place to be. With breathtaking and distinctive lodgings galore, the Volunteer State is packed with a number of spectacular glamping sites that range from treetop lodgings to farm-friendly adventures; and everything in-between—the perfect place for relaxation and recreation this summer.