Camping
The backcountry campground is located one mile from the Wilderness Station and is accessible only by walking. Approved groups such as scouts, church youth groups, and college organized clubs are allowed to camp without a staff member. To qualify as an approved group, a Wilderness Awareness workshop and a leader orientation must be completed.
The 275 acre back country area boasts approximately 5 miles of hiking trails. Beginning from the Wilderness Station, the paved portion of the trail cuts through a hardwood forest that rises above limestone outcrops. This eventually leads to the River Overlook and Back country Campground. Here the trail turns into a dirt path that skirts along the West Fork of the Stones River. This begins the Marshall Knob trail with red blazes along the trees. Climbing higher towards the peak, there are limestone sinks and a long stone fence that is thought to be Civil War-era. The Valley View trail is accessible from this point of Marshall Knob and has blue trail blazes. This 1 mile loop passes several crevasse-like sinks. Both ends of the Rocky Path Trail are passed as the Marshall Knob trail continues back towards the Wilderness Station. The Rocky Path trail is also a 1 mile loop with white tree blazes. Wildlife viewing is a favorite among hikers who report sightings of Barred owls, deer, turkeys, or an occasional snake, bobcat, or coyote. NO BIKING OR SKATING OF ANY KIND IS ALLOWED ON THESE TRAILS.
A TreeMendous Tree Trail runs along the first 0.7 mile of the paved trail. Twelve stations are featured and are marked by a number. The Tree Trail map is available at the Wilderness Station, along with a Tree Trail Guide.
Amenities
- Picnic tables
- Garbage receptacles
- Central fire pit
- Vault toilet
- Lantern holders
Family Campouts
At least two staff-led Family Campouts are scheduled each year. A campfire dinner and breakfast along with equipment rental, night hikes, and live music are provided in the fee. More information and dates can be found in the Rec Connection program guide as well as on the Outdoor Murfreesboro Facebook Event page.
Group Camping
- Walk in only: you must carry all of your gear in on a paved trail approximately 1 mile
- No potable water available at campground
- Alcohol and drugs are prohibited
- Maximum length of stay is 2 days
- Camping available on Fridays and Saturdays only
- All campers must complete a free Wilderness Awareness Workshop prior to camping
Booking
- Camping offered April – November. Restroom facilities are winterized during December - March.
- Camping available on Fridays and Saturdays only
- Minimum: 10 campers or $50.00
- Must check in at the Wilderness Station by closing unless otherwise approved
- Must reserve campsite(s) at least 1 week in advance
- The Wilderness Station staff has the right to cancel a reservation due to inclement weather.
- Educational and interpretive programs can be added for an additional fee and must be set up prior to the arrival of campers
- All participants must sign a waiver prior to camping
- All participants ages 6 and older must complete a Wilderness Awareness Workshop (free)
- All leaders must complete a Leader’s Orientation (free)
- Minimum: 2 adults, 18 years of age or older
- Groups camping with kids must have a 5 : 1 ratio of minors : adults
Costs
| Organized Groups | $5 per person |
| Campfire Program | $3 per person |
| Family Campouts | $10 per adult / $5 per child |
| Leave No Trace Class | Free |
Equipment Rental Costs
| 2-man tent (includes ground cloth | $8 per day |
| 4-man tent (includes ground cloth | $12 per day |
| Ground cloth | $1 per day |
| Backpack (adult) | $4 per day |
| Backpack (child) | $2 per day |
| Sleeping pad | $1 per day |
| Hammock | $5 per day |