Camper Van Rentals in Tennessee

Tennessee might be known for its famous music scene in Nashville, but there’s much more to this Southern state. Yes, you should experience Nashville’s neon-lit honky-tonks and the musical genius at the Bluebird Cafe, but don’t stop there! Jump in a camper van rental and venture beyond the city limits. See Civil War battlefields, hike though Cherokee National Forest and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, kayak along a portion of the mighty Mississippi River, or even rock climb on world-class cliffs around Chattanooga. Whether you’re looking for a road trip of relaxation, history, or adrenaline, you can find it in Tennessee. And we’ve got the details for you here.

1. Why Rent a Camper Van in Tennessee?

Because Tennessee is way too diverse to stay in one spot! Mountains in the east, music in the middle, Mississippi River in the west and all within a half-day’s drive of each other.

With a camper van, you can camp and enjoy the tranquility of nature at one of the state parks just outside of Nashville, drive to Nashville for live music, then camp near Fall Creek Falls by sunset. No hotel check-ins, no extra rental car fees.

Tennessee has 54 state parks with RV camping and hundreds of free dispersed spots in Cherokee National Forest. Plus, with the ability to cook your own meals in a Class B RV, your main costs are gas and campground fees (often under $30/night).

2. How Much Does a Class B RV Rental Cost in Tennessee?

For budget vans, you’re looking at $100-$150 per night. This will typically get you a basic van with a sleeping platform and cooking equipment (though sometimes more). Mid-range conversion vans with a kitchenette, toilet, and other basic amenities run $175-$250 per night. Luxury Mercedes Sprinter Van rentals can be anywhere from $280-$450 per night.

Peak season (April-October) drives prices up. Book 2-3 months ahead for summer. Winter rates drop 30-40% but mountain campgrounds may close.

Related Blog Post: How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Conversion Van

3. Where Can I Pick Up a Sprinter Van Rental in Tennessee?

Nashville has the most inventory so you’ll get the most options and best prices. Plus, Nashville International Airport (BNA) has several companies within 15 minutes so it’s easy for fly-and-drive trips.

Memphis works for western TN and Mississippi River routes. However, there are fewer options here, so book early.

Knoxville is best for the Smokies. McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is 45 minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains.

Chattanooga has a few rental options to choose from and gets you close to lots of outdoor sports. However, Nashville suburbs (Franklin, Murfreesboro) sometimes have better prices that make the drive worth it.

4. Where Should I Go on a Tennessee Sleeper Van Road Trip?

There are tons of great spots around Tennessee. For a quick highlight reel of the state, hit these:

• Nashville: There’s a reason this city is so popular! A trip to Tennessee wouldn’t be complete without at least a night or two in the Music City.

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park: America's most-visited park with over 800 miles of trails, synchronous fireflies in June, and ten campgrounds including Cades Cove.

• Fall Creek Falls State Park: 256-foot waterfall, gorge views, over 56 miles of hiking trails, and 198 campsites.

• Natchez Trace Parkway: 444-mile scenic route from Nashville to Natchez with three free primitive campgrounds along the way.

If you're willing to commit a bit more time, add these to your list too:

• Cherohala Skyway: 43-mile mountain drive with stunning views of the Tennessee Valley, mountain peaks, and wildflower meadows, and dispersed camping in Cherokee National Forest.

• Chattanooga and Lookout Mountain: Tennessee’s very own enchanting outdoor hub with Rock City Gardens, Ruby Falls, Walnut Street Bridge, and other adventure spots just outside of town.

5. Is Nashville Accessible by Camper Van?

Yes, but downtown doesn't allow overnight RV parking. Most lots charge $20-$50/day with low clearances.

Best strategy? Stay at campgrounds 10-15 miles out and Uber into downtown. Nashville KOA is 12 miles from Broadway with shuttle service ($50-$140/night).

Smaller vans and Class B RVs under 22 feet handle downtown way better than big rigs.

Related blog post: How to Choose the Right Campervan Rental for Your Adventure

6. Are There Dispersed Camping Options in Tennessee?

Yes! Cherokee National Forest (650,000 acres in eastern TN) has hundreds of free primitive spots.

Best areas:

• Citico Creek: Pull-offs right next to water near Tellico Plains

• Lost Creek: Former developed campground, now free with vault toilets and fire rings

No water, electricity, or trash service. Pack in, pack out. Check fire restrictions as summer droughts can trigger bans.

Note: Great Smoky Mountains National Park does NOT allow dispersed camping.

7. What's the Best Scenic Drive in Tennessee?

Cherohala Skyway wins hands down. 43 miles connecting Tellico Plains, TN to Robbinsville, NC, climbing to 5,400 feet with stunning mountain views. Spring has rhododendron blooms while fall (mid-October to early November) explodes with color.

Other great drives:

• Foothills Parkway: 33 miles of Smoky Mountain ridgeline views

• Natchez Trace: 444 miles with no commercial traffic and free campgrounds

• Ocoee Gorge (Highway 64): Whitewater views and Olympic kayak course

8. Are Campfires Allowed at Tennessee Campgrounds?

Yes, but only in designated fire rings. Don't move rings or build ground fires.

Buy firewood at park stores or collect dead wood near your site. Don't bring wood from other counties because it can be an invasive species risk.

However, summer droughts often trigger fire bans so always check before you go. When allowed, watch fires constantly.

October 15-May 15: You need a free burn permit from the Tennessee Division of Forestry (get it online). Summer doesn't require permits, but bans can happen anytime.

9. What Are Tennessee's Best RV Parks and Campgrounds?

Here are the top spots:

• Nashville KOA: 233 pull-through sites, pool, hot tub, dog park, and a shuttle to downtown.

• Anchor Down RV Resort: Enthralling waterfront sites on Douglas Lake near Knoxville. Amenities include a pool with a waterslide and paddleboard and kayak rentals, among other more classic RV park amenities.

• Fall Creek Falls State Park: 198 sites with electric hookups among the trees. The park features its namesake 256-foot waterfall plus over 56 miles of hiking trails.

• Cades Cove Campground: Great Smoky Mountains' most popular camp spot with 161 sites. There are no hookups or showers here, but you do get flush toilets and drinking water.

• Indian Boundary Campground: Within the Cherokee National Forest, this lakeside campground has 87 sites, beach swimming access, and picturesque mountain views.

10. Can I Rent a Campervan for a One-way Trip from Tennessee?

Yes, but double-check with the individual host before booking, and expect potentially steep relocation fees.

Pro tip: Companies sometimes waive fees in shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) or offer "relocation specials" with crazy cheap rates ($50/night) to move vans between cities. These pop up 1-2 weeks before departure. It can be a good way to have a spontaneous budget trip, but not something to rely on.

Ready for a Tennessee Adventure?

Music lovers, nature nerds, history buffs, and thrill seekers can all find their perfect match in Tennessee. So buckle up and get ready to drive into the sunset in your dream van for an unforgettable trip through the Volunteer state. Reserve with altCamp today!

Also search nearby rentals in North Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, and Kentucky.