Meriwether Lewis Campground, Milepost 385.9
4.57139 reviews191 Meriwether Lewis Park
Meriwether Lewis Campground, Milepost 385.9
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Camping is completely free, with no reservation fees or use fees.
About this campground
Nestled in the serene woodlands along the historic Natchez Trace Parkway, Meriwether Lewis Campground beckons travelers with 32 complimentary campsites that blend modern comfort with rustic charm. While you won't find electrical hookups or showers here, the campground compensates with smooth paved roads, clean flush toilets, and fresh drinking water. This hidden gem serves as your gateway to meandering hiking trails and fascinating historical exhibits, where the whispers of America's past meet the tranquility of Tennessee's natural splendor.
The Meriwether Lewis Campground provides primitive camping options, accommodating both tents and RVs. All camping is on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reservations.
Historical SignificanceHistory comes alive at this campground, where you're just moments away from the final resting place of the legendary explorer Meriwether Lewis. The surrounding Natchez Trace Parkway tells the story of centuries-old Native American trails, frontier post riders, and traveling preachers who shaped the American frontier. Each campsite connects you to this storied corridor that has witnessed the footsteps of countless travelers throughout our nation's journey.
Weather and SeasonsTennessee's gentle climate graces this woodland retreat with comfortable temperatures throughout the year, punctuated by refreshing rain showers that keep the forest lush and vibrant. While adventurers can pitch their tents any season, late spring transforms the campground into a botanical wonderland of wildflowers and fresh greenery, while early autumn paints the canopy in brilliant golds and crimsons. These shoulder seasons offer the perfect balance of pleasant weather and nature's most spectacular displays.
ElevationPerched atop a gentle Tennessee hilltop, the campground offers a commanding view of the surrounding woodland valleys. This elevated position not only provides natural drainage during rainy weather but also captures cooling breezes that whisper through the trees, creating a naturally comfortable environment even during warmer months.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of towering hardwoods where morning mist dances between ancient trees and wildlife awakens with the dawn. Visitors consistently marvel at the campground's enchanting atmosphere, where deer might graze near your tent and songbirds provide nature's alarm clock. The dense canopy creates intimate, shaded sites that feel worlds away from civilization, while the understory blooms with native wildflowers and ferns that carpet the forest floor.
Geological RegionSet within Central Tennessee's rolling hills, the campground showcases the region's characteristic hardwood forests that have flourished along the Natchez Trace for millennia. This geological tapestry of limestone ridges and fertile valleys has created an ecosystem where oak, hickory, and maple trees thrive, forming the iconic woodland landscape that defines this historically significant parkway corridor.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has one designated handicap-accessible site located near the bathroom. Paved sites also make the campground easier to navigate for some individuals with mobility concerns.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, allowing for easy parking of various RV sizes and tents. Some pull-through sites are available.
Sites PrivacySites are spaced out enough to offer some level of privacy, though the presence of many RVs can reduce the feeling of seclusion.
Total Campsites32 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTo avoid tick-heavy areas, consider staying closer to the paved roads. For better privacy, pull-through sites are recommended.
Best CampsitesSite 5 is specifically mentioned as a pull-through site and easy to access, even in the dark.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specific check-in time mentioned.
Check-out
No specific check-out time mentioned.
Stay Limit
Visitors can stay up to 14 days per calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests per site are not explicitly stated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutPaved sites are laid out in loops with a mix of pull-through and back-in spots.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations required; sites are first-come, first-serve.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-serve, with no reservation system.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not applicable since the sites are first-come, first-serve. Cancellation policies hence do not apply.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Meriwether Lewis Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities suitable for nature enthusiasts and history buffs. Campers can explore hiking trails, enjoy the serenity of the Old Trace, and visit historical exhibits, including the gravesite of Meriwether Lewis. Wildlife viewing is another highlight.
Hiking
The campground features hiking trails, including sections of the historic Old Trace. However, some users have noted overgrowth and issues such as ticks on the trails ('We tried to hike the loop, but it was really overgrown and the ticks were bad,' reported user Brianna B).Swimming
No designated swimming areas are provided within the campground itself, but some visitors mentioned bathing in nearby creeks and rivers, such as Little Swan Creek and Metal Ford on the Buffalo River.Biking
The paved roads within the campground are suitable for biking, and some visitors specifically mentioned enjoying bike rides along the historic Natchez Trace Parkway.Wildlife viewing
Bird watching and encounters with local fauna, such as squirrels, are common. One reviewer described, 'You'll fall asleep to the sound of the whippoorwill's call and wake to the sound of all their bird friends.'Cultural and Educational Programs
The campground includes historical exhibits and a memorial for Meriwether Lewis, offering cultural and educational opportunities for visitors.Winter Activities
Winter activities like camping in colder conditions are possible. However, minimal amenities and exposure to the elements make preparation critical.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are not mentioned in association with this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted at designated fire rings; wood must be scrounged from the area.
- Quiet hours are Generators are not allowed after 9 PM, as noted by user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention ticks, poison ivy, and a 4-foot rattlesnake sighting as potential hazards.
Active alertsNo active alerts are specified in authoritative sources.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Closest emergency services are in Hohenwald, approximately 7 miles away, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo peak seasons specified; the campground appears to operate year-round.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are located at each site, and staff reportedly pick up trash daily. Some reviewers noted that trash bags are provided by staff.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near creeks and waterfalls, including Metal Ford and the Buffalo River.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints from user reviews include high tick populations, poison ivy, issues with homeless individuals overstaying, and limited ranger presence.
HostCampground hosts are mentioned as being friendly and helpful, with periodic trash pickup and restroom cleaning.
Campground Map
191 Meriwether Lewis Park
Driving directionsAt milepost 385.9, exit off the Natchez Trace Parkway. At the dead end, turn right, follow to the fork in the road and turn right. Take the second right to enter into the campground.
Paved roads lead to the campground from the Natchez Trace Parkway. Seasonal closures and adverse weather are not mentioned, suggesting year-round accessibility.Nearby places
Hohenwald, TN (7 miles, approximately 15 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
Hohenwald, TN, approximately 7 miles away, offers groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.6
139 reviews
Meriwether Lewis Campground, Milepost 385.9 is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Meriwether Lewis Campground is highly praised for its peaceful atmosphere, historical significance, and clean facilities. However, some reviews highlight issues such as overgrown trails, ticks, and occasional disturbances from other campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 139 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers frequently mention the campground's cleanliness, the spacious and paved sites, and the beauty of the natural surroundings. Common phrases include 'clean bathrooms,' 'quiet and peaceful,'...
Based on 139 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include overgrown trails, high tick populations, inconsistent cell service, and the presence of some long-term campers who may not adhere to rules. A few reviewers also noted safety...
Based on 139 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
1. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially on weekends. 2. Bring bug repellent to address issues with ticks. 3. Prepare for primitive camping with no hookups or showers. 4. Explore the historical...
Based on 139 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are popular due to milder weather and blooming flowers. Summer can be hot, and some campers noted challenges with heat. Winter camping is quieter but requires preparation for cold...
Based on 139 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'This was a beautiful campground!!! I live near Nashville and can't afford much at the moment. Very dark and creepy at night.. lol.. VERY DARK!!!!' - Marc Bills. 2. 'The flush toilets are probably...
Based on 139 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 5 is a pull-through site noted for being easy to access even in the dark. Other pull-through and back-in sites are also highlighted for their spacious layouts.
Based on 139 reviewsAccessibility Features
A designated handicap-accessible site near the restroom is mentioned as a key feature for accessibility.
Based on 139 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground allows pets, and many campers brought their dogs. 'Our neighbors were super friendly and you could definitely bring your dog here!' - Emily Smith.
Based on 139 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025