Harpeth River Bridge Campground (Tn)
4.65119 reviews2914 Hwy 49W, Ashland City, TN, 37015, USA.
Harpeth River Bridge Campground (Tn)
$22.00 - $22.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Recreation Use Fee for camping is $22 per night during peak season. Reservation fees are $8 online/app, $9 via contact center, or $3 in-person. Additional fees may apply for changes ($10 fee) or cancellations ($10 fee + first-night recreation use fee). Discounts may apply for Interagency Senior Pass holders.
About this campground
Nestled along a scenic bend of the Harpeth River, this charming family-owned campground offers an intimate escape where the gentle sounds of flowing water create nature's perfect soundtrack. Spacious sites equipped with water and electric hookups spread beneath a canopy of mature trees, while thoughtful amenities—from the convenient boat ramp to the cheerful playground—ensure both adventure seekers and those seeking tranquility find their perfect balance. Consistently praised by guests for its pristine grounds and warm hospitality, Harpeth River Bridge has cultivated a reputation as a hidden gem where families return year after year.
Harpeth River Bridge Campground caters to a variety of campers, including those with tents and RVs. It offers reservable standard electric sites and is praised for its family-friendly atmosphere. All sites feature water and electric hookups, and the campground is small and quiet, making it ideal for peaceful getaways.
Weather and SeasonsWith its generous recreation season stretching from early spring through late fall, the campground welcomes visitors through nature's changing moods. Summer brings the full Southern experience—warm days perfect for river activities, though the humidity can settle heavily during peak months, particularly noticeable in the evening hours. Savvy campers often seek refuge under the abundant tree cover during afternoon heat, while spring and fall offer ideal conditions with crisp mornings giving way to comfortable afternoons.
ElevationSet within the gentle rolling landscape of Middle Tennessee's river valleys, the campground rests at a comfortable elevation that provides easy river access while remaining safely above typical water levels.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Harpeth River performs an elegant dance around the campground, nearly embracing it in a horseshoe bend that grants every camper proximity to the water's edge. Ancient hardwoods—some standing sentinel for over a century—create a natural cathedral overhead, their sprawling branches filtering sunlight into dappled patterns across the ground. This remarkable riverine setting transforms throughout the day, from misty morning river views to golden evening light reflecting off the water's surface.
Geological RegionPositioned on the Harpeth River's gentle right bank, the campground occupies a unique geographical treasure where the river's meandering path has carved an almost complete circle through the landscape. This distinctive oxbow formation creates a peninsula of camping paradise, surrounded by the life-giving waters of one of Tennessee's most beloved waterways. The mature riverine forest ecosystem supports a tapestry of native flora and fauna, from towering sycamores along the water's edge to the melodic chorus of songbirds in the canopy above.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground appears to offer level concrete pads and well-maintained facilities that may support accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. Reviews highlight the level sites and paved roads as favorable for RVs and campers with mobility needs.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and level, with one reviewer noting, 'Large level campsites on the river.' Certain sites accommodate larger RVs, though some users found specific spots challenging for big rigs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. While many sites are spacious, some, such as sites 14 and 15, share driveways, reducing privacy. A reviewer noted, 'Sites 14 and 15 share the same driveway... great for a group, terrible for a couple with a large dog.'
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid Sites 14 and 15 if privacy is a priority; these share a driveway. Large RVs may find backing into Sites 02 and 14 challenging.
Best CampsitesSites 05, 09, and 14 are popular for their scenic water views and spacious layouts.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
1:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights within any rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Two tents or one tent and one RV per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutAll sites are waterfront and spaced along the riverbank. Sites are level and paved, offering easy access.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens April 15, 2025, and closes October 30, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov website, mobile app, and contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityHarpeth River Bridge Campground has reservable sites only; no walk-up sites available.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee, plus first-night's recreation use fee withheld for late cancellations. Changes to reservations cost $10 and must be made before arrival dates. Late cancellations are defined as occurring after midnight the day before scheduled arrival.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Harpeth River Bridge Campground offers a range of recreational opportunities suitable for all ages. Popular activities include boating, canoeing, fishing, and enjoying the playground and horseshoe pits. The serene environment along the Harpeth River encourages relaxation and leisurely family gatherings.
Fishing
Fishing is a favored activity at the campground, with easy access to the Harpeth River. However, some users found bank fishing challenging due to overgrown weeds. A reviewer stated, 'The weeds along the bank made it hard to fish from our site.'Boating
Boating and canoeing are popular at the campground, facilitated by a new boat ramp. The Harpeth River's calm waters make it ideal for kayaking and other non-motorized watercraft. One reviewer noted, 'Great place to kayak!'Water Sports
The Harpeth River is suitable for kayaking, canoeing, and other non-motorized water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted but visitors are advised to use locally purchased firewood.
- Quiet hours are No curfew for noise explicitly stated; loud parties were reported lasting until 2 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsFalling tree branches are a natural hazard. Some users note tall grass and weeds along the river bank as minor inconveniences.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ashland City offers nearby emergency services including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 15, 2025 - October 30, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash pickup services are available, and protected metal garbage cans are provided. One reviewer commented, 'The protected metal garbage cans (and daily garbage pickup) made camp life so easy for us!'
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the Harpeth River, offering waterfront access at every site.
Common complaintsNoise from nearby bridge traffic is a recurring issue mentioned in user reviews. Limited privacy at shared campsites (e.g., Sites 14 and 15) was noted.
HostCamp hosts are frequently praised for their friendliness and attentiveness. They perform regular patrols and maintain cleanliness across the campground.
Campground Map
2914 Hwy 49W, Ashland City, TN, 37015, USA.
Driving directionsFrom Ashland City, Tennessee, head northwest on S Main Street. Take the first left on TN-49W/ Cumberland Street. Continue to follow TN-49W for 5 miles. The campground will be on your right directly before the Harpeth River Bridge.
The access road (Hwy 49) is narrow and depending on direction, limit time on it by going into Ashland City on Highway 12. Big rigs need to take caution. It is recommended to avoid River Road (Hwy 251) entirely due to its narrow and winding nature.Nearby places
Ashland City (10 miles, approx. 15-minute drive)
Nashville, TN (30 miles, approx. 30-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Ashland City (10 miles) provides access to groceries, fuel, and camping supplies. Additionally, there is a diner and an ice machine right across the highway from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.7
119 reviews
Harpeth River Bridge Campground (Tn) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, particularly for cleanliness, friendly hosts, and its serene riverside setting. Common praises include the well-maintained facilities, spacious and level campsites, and peaceful environment. However, some users noted noise from nearby traffic and issues with tall grass or weeds in certain areas.
Review Summaries
Based on 119 reviews
What Campers Love
Consistently clean and well-maintained facilities, friendly and helpful camp hosts, spacious and level riverside campsites, and a peaceful atmosphere are the most celebrated aspects. Additionally,...
Based on 119 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Noise from bridge traffic and occasional disturbances from other guests were common complaints. Fishing was noted as difficult at some sites due to overgrown weeds, and some users mentioned issues...
Based on 119 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Call the campground if arriving late to ensure your reservation remains secure. Avoid sites 14 and 15 if privacy is a priority, as they share the same driveway. Consider bringing a kayak to fully...
Based on 119 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are highlighted as the best seasons for camping, with mild weather and fewer bugs. Summer reviews frequently note high humidity in the shower facilities and occasional issues with...
Based on 119 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The camp directors really care about the guests... everything is so clean, especially the restrooms." "We had the best time at Harpeth River Bridge Campground! Our host, Pamela, was so helpful and...
Based on 119 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 14 and 15 are noted for shared driveways, reducing privacy. Site 6 is highlighted as ideal for first-timers with easy access. Site 2 was mentioned as challenging for a 36' 5th wheel.
Based on 119 reviewsAccessibility Features
Level pavement and well-maintained facilities make the campground suitable for individuals with mobility challenges. The accessible concrete pads and proximity to amenities are notable features.
Based on 119 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is described as very pet-friendly, with ample space for pets to enjoy. One reviewer noted, 'Very pet friendly. Never have had any issues.'
Based on 119 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025