Merriwether Lewis Boondocking in Hohenwald, TN
Guide to Remote Camping and History
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| Hohenwald, TN GPS: 35.522797, -87.455078 Elevation: 955′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – National Park Service (Official) 800-305-7417 This is a FREE campsite. |
Previous Reviews:
Merriwether Lewis Boondocking: The road in is Paved. Merriwether Lewis Boondocking is open Year-round. There are 30 or more campsites at this location and the maximum RV length is Any. You may stay 14 Nights at Merriwether Lewis Boondocking.
They do not offer electricity, showers, or dump stations. The maximum stay at our campgrounds is 14 days combined throughout the year. All camping must take place within designated campgrounds. The Natchez Trace Parkway does not allow dispersed camping. Those who are biking the Parkway may be interested in the bicycle-only campgrounds along the Natchez Trace Parkway.
The Natchez Trace Parkway manages three campgrounds along the length of the 444 mile Parkway. Those campgrounds are Merriwether Lewis at Milepost 385.9, Jeff Busby at Milepost 193.1 and Rocky Springs at Milepost 54. The three Parkway campgrounds are free, primitive, and available on a first come, first serve basis.
About This Location
Boondocking near Merriwether Lewis Boondocking in Hohenwald, TN, lets you camp for free and get right up close to nature. You’ll find 32 free sites at milepost 385.9 on the Natchez Trace Parkway, and it’s all first-come, first-served. No reservations, no fees—just show up, pick a spot, and settle in for some quiet, rustic camping.
There are hiking trails to wander and the Merriwether Lewis boondocking area memorial site right there, so you can mix a bit of history into your outdoor time. The area’s easy to reach by car, and the campsites have the basics: picnic tables and camp rings, good for tents or smaller RVs.
If you’re in the mood for a quick overnight or want to stay a bit longer, this place offers a peaceful way to unplug while still being near some cool landmarks. Perfect for folks who appreciate camping without a lot of complications.
Key Takeaways
- 32 free campsites, first-come, first-served
- Easy vehicle access and basic amenities
- Hiking and historical sites nearby round out the experience
Merriwether Lewis Boondocking In Hohenwald, TN
Merriwether Lewis boondocking area sits at milepost 385.9 on the Natchez Trace Parkway, just outside Hohenwald. With 32 free campsites, it’s a favorite for boondockers who want simplicity.
Each site gives you an asphalt parking pad, a picnic table, and a fire ring. Water spigots are around, but you won’t find electric or sewer hookups here—it’s a real boondocking experience. Restrooms and trash bins are available, so you’re not totally roughing it.
Easy hiking trails wind around the campground and let you soak in the natural beauty of the area. Nights are quiet and the stars are bright, but you’re still close to water and bathrooms.
Key Features:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Sites | 32 |
| Cost | Free |
| Facilities | Water spigots, restrooms, trash service |
| Parking | Asphalt spots |
| Hookups | None |
If you want a no-frills camping experience without paying a dime, this spot’s hard to beat. It’s right on the Natchez Trace Parkway, so it’s easy to get to and feels peaceful once you’re there.
Things To Do
Camping at Merriwether Lewis boondocking area puts you close to Merriwether Lewis Park and Monument. You can walk through the park, read up on Lewis’s life (and his mysterious death nearby), and just enjoy the quiet.
The Lewis County Museum is worth a stop too. Inside, you’ll find exhibits on early settlers and local history—pretty interesting if you’re curious about the area during Lewis’s time.
If you’re itching for a little more nature, drive out to Fall Hollow Falls. The hike isn’t tough, and the waterfall’s a nice payoff. Take your time and just enjoy being outside.
And for something different, the Elephant Discovery Center isn’t far. It’s all about Asian elephants, with educational displays and chances to learn about these animals. Adds a fun twist to your visit.
Here’s a quick list of things to check out:
- Walk the Merriwether Lewis Park and Monument
- Visit the Lewis County Museum
- Hike to Fall Hollow Falls
- Explore the Elephant Discovery Center
There’s plenty to do, whether you’re into history, hiking, or just seeing something new.
Directions
To get to Merriwether Lewis, head for milepost 385.9 on the Natchez Trace Parkway. It’s up near the north end of the parkway, so you’ll see signs as you get close.
If you’re coming from Hohenwald, drive east toward the Parkway. Once you hit it, go north until you spot the campground entrance. The campground sits about half a mile off the main road, tucked back in the woods.
From Nashville, take I-40 south to Exit 148 for U.S. Highway 412. Head south on 412, then jump onto the Parkway and drive north to milepost 385.9.
Watch for signs and stick to the speed limits. Parking and campsites are marked, so you’ll know when you’ve arrived.
A quick rundown:
- From Hohenwald: Head east to the Parkway, then north to milepost 385.9
- From Nashville: I-40 to Exit 148 -> Highway 412 south -> Parkway north
- Look for campground signs at milepost 385.9
- Follow posted speed limits on the Parkway
A GPS or map app helps, but keep in mind cell service can get spotty in the woods.
Vehicle Access
Getting to Merriwether Lewis boondocking area is easy for most vehicles. The road’s paved and well kept all the way to milepost 385.9 on the Natchez Trace Parkway.
Each site has a cement parking pad—plenty of room for cars, trucks, small trailers, and a lot of RVs. If you’ve got a really big rig or a long fifth-wheel, you might find things a little tight, especially around some turns.
The parkway’s speed limit tops out at 50 mph, which keeps things pretty relaxed. There aren’t any steep or rough stretches on the way in, so standard vehicles won’t have trouble.
Once you’re parked, coming and going is no hassle since the campground’s layout is straightforward. Since it’s first-come, first-served, it pays to keep an eye out for open spots, especially during busy weekends.
Main vehicle access points:
- Main entrance just off the Parkway
- Paved roads right up to the parking pads
- Clear signs point the way in
If you’re driving something big, double-check your length to make sure you’ll fit. It just makes everything easier.
RV And Camping Trailer Information
At Merriwether Lewis boondocking area, you’ll find 32 free campsites that work for RVs and camping trailers. The pads are paved, so parking’s a breeze and you won’t be fighting with mud or uneven ground.
Don’t expect hookups—there’s no water, electricity, or sewer at the sites. You’ll need to be self-contained or use the shared water spigots and dump stations nearby.
Since it’s first-come, first-served, try to show up early if you want a spot, especially when it’s busy.
Park rangers stop by daily, and there’s a campground host around to answer questions or help out. Folks tend to keep things tidy and quiet, which makes for a pleasant stay.
The campground’s close to hiking and everything else the Parkway offers, so you won’t be bored.
Here’s a quick summary:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Sites | 32 |
| Site Surface | Paved |
| Hookups | None |
| Cost | Free |
| Reservation | No, first-come, first-served |
| Location | Milepost 385.9, Hohenwald, TN |
With a little planning, you can enjoy a laid-back RV or trailer camping trip at Merriwether Lewis.
Paid Or Permit Sites
At Merriwether Lewis boondocking area, every campsite is free. You won’t find any paid or permit-required spots here. No need to reserve ahead or mess with payments—just show up.
The campground runs on a first-come, first-served system. Basically, you roll in, pick an open site, and settle down—no permits, no headaches. It keeps things straightforward and, honestly, way less stressful.
Don’t expect hookups or fancy extras like electricity or showers. There’s water, but you’ll want to come ready for a basic camping experience.
If you’re after more comforts—showers, electrical hookups, all that—you’re out of luck here. You’d have to check out nearby private campgrounds or maybe a state park for those kinds of upgrades.
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| ADA accessible Drinking Water Pets Welcome Picnic Tables Restrooms |
RV Parking Tent Camping Hiking Wildlife Viewing |
Helpful Boondocking Information Links:
Over 10,000 Free Boondocking Locations
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Bureau of Land Management
Government Recreation Area
National Park Service
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State Specific Information Links
Tennessee Park Service
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