Long Hunter State Park Campground

About

Long Hunter State Park, established in 1978 on 2,600 acres along J. Percy Priest Lake, provides a true backcountry camping experience just outside Nashville. The park's two primitive tent sites sit on the lake shoreline, surrounded by hardwood forest that offers shade and seclusion. Getting there requires a 6-mile hike via the Day Loop or Volunteer Trail from the main parking area. This is pack-it-in, pack-it-out camping with no facilities at the sites. There is no potable water, electricity, restrooms, or showers. Campers must carry all water or filter from the lake. Each site has a designated fire ring; only certified heat-treated firewood may be brought into the park. The wooded lakeside setting rewards the effort with solitude and direct water access for fishing or paddling. Reservations are required through the Tennessee State Parks system, with a minimum 2-night stay and maximum 14 consecutive nights. A $5 non-refundable reservation fee applies. Overnight campers must display their camping receipt on their vehicle dashboard at the trailhead. The park's electronic gate opens at 5 AM and closes at 8 PM daily.

Directions

The park is located at 2910 Hobson Pike, Hermitage, TN 37076, east of Nashville near J. Percy Priest Lake. From the main parking area, the backcountry campsites are accessed via a 6-mile hike starting at the Day Loop/Volunteer Trailhead.