Camping & Cocktails

If you’re like us, you’re looking for an escape to the great outdoors after this gloomy Tennessee winter. Whether you're an experienced camper or just starting out, one thing is for sure: camping is always more fun with a refreshing cocktail in hand. They’re immeasurably easier to carry as well. We’ve paired our favorite cocktails with our favorite campsites near Nashville. And just like the drinks, the camping goes from primitive to glamping.

South Cumberland State Park

For the serious camper

Located two hours from Nashville, South Cumberland State Park straddles Grundy, Franklin, and Marion Counties. Guests to this 12,000-acre park can expect to hike, climb and swim their way through winding trails and gorgeous scenery before setting up camp in one of three primitive backcountry (and one drive-up) campsites.

Campers at South Cumberland are going to want to pack light for hiking, so we’re suggesting a no-frills pairing here: a pre-diluted, smoky Old Fashioned and your favorite tinned fish with crackers, perfect for relaxing by the fire after conquering the Fiery Gizzard Trail.

Oaxacan Old Fashioned

1.5 oz Reposado Tequila .50 oz Mezcal
.50 oz Simple Syrup
.25 oz Water
1 dash Angostura Bitters

Combine all ingredients and stir—you can scale this to the size of the bottle you’re bringing, and it’s always ready to enjoy.

Montgomery Bell State Park

For the glamper

Only 40 minutes from Nashville, Montgomery Bell State Park is the perfect campground for campers looking for something with a bit more air conditioning. With boat launches, a variety of short hiking trails and even a golf course, this park is perfect for a relaxing weekend getaway. Guests can choose between RV or tent campsites, opt to rent a cabin, or even book a stay at the luxurious Lodge hotel (complete with full-service bar and restaurant).

Watermelon Sour Mix

300g Watermelon Juice 400g White Sugar
30g Citric Acid

Combine all ingredients thoroughly. Mix will last up to one week in the fridge.

Watermelon Sour

2 oz of your favorite clear spirit (we love tequila)
1.5 oz of Watermelon Sour Mix

Combine both ingredients in a shaker-tin with ice and shake for 10 seconds. Strain over ice.

Cage’s Bend

For the nature lover

Located on the shores of Old Hickory lake, Cage’s Bend is the perfect campsite for the amateur ecologist. The lake attracts an array of migratory birds and wildlife and is perfect for fishing. With 43 RV and tent sites (including some along the waterfront) equipped with picnic tables, grills and electrical/water hookups, this campground is perfect for a low-tech getaway. Beer is the way to go here as your car will be nearby.

For this site, we’re recommending a simple and refreshing shandy.

Simple Shandy

1.5 oz Grapefruit Juice
12 oz Wheat Beer Salt Rim (Optional)

Pour the beer into a glass, then top with grapefruit juice.

Anderson Road Campground

Fun for the whole family

Anderson Road Campground is one of many campgrounds surrounding Percy Priest Lake. Only 30 minutes from Nashville, this campsite is full of attractions perfect for families, boasting playgrounds, light trails, boating and fishing, and even a beachfront. Guests can expect restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities when they stay on one of Anderson Road’s 10 RV sites or 26 tent sites.

For this family-friendly campground, we’re recommending a Homemade Lavender Lemonade for the kids that’s ripe for spiking for the adults (hello, Honeysuckle Vodka).

Homemade Lavender Lemonade

1 Tablespoon Dried Lavender Leaves, or 10 Sprigs of Fresh Lavender
1 Cup Sugar
1 Cup Water
1.5 Cups Fresh Lemon Juice Honeysuckle Vodka (Optional)

Combine lavender, white sugar and water and bring to a boil. Drop heat to low and let simmer for 5 minutes. Strain syrup.

Combine lavender syrup and lemon juice in a pitcher and dilute to taste. Add an optional shot of Honeysuckle Vodka.