Collins West Campground

For Tennessee locals who are looking to step into the world of backcountry camping without the intense physical demands of a long, arduous hike, Collins West Campground in Savage Gulf State Park is an absolute must-visit. This campground is a true gem, offering the feel of a remote wilderness escape with a level of accessibility that makes it perfect for beginners, families, and those who want to carry in some extra comforts. Located just a short, half-mile walk from the trailhead, Collins West provides a peaceful and rustic setting that feels miles away from civilization. It’s a place where you can fully immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the Cumberland Plateau, surrounded by rugged terrain, dense forests, and incredible rock formations.

What sets Collins West apart is its status as an "ideal first and easy step" into backpacking, as noted by a seasoned camper. It strikes the perfect balance between a challenging hike and a simple car-camping trip, providing a sense of accomplishment without the exhaustion. The campground is nestled within the Collins Gulf area, one of three spectacular gorges in the Savage Gulf State Natural Area. This location means you are at the gateway to some of the most scenic and wild landscapes in the state. From your campsite, you have easy access to a network of trails that lead to majestic waterfalls like Suter Falls and dramatic overlooks of the canyon. The atmosphere is quiet and respectful of nature, perfect for a peaceful night under the stars. The feeling of being so deep in the wilderness, with the convenience of a short walk back to your car, makes this campground a unique and valuable resource for campers of all experience levels.

Collins West Campground is located in the beautiful Savage Gulf State Park near Gruetli-Laager, TN 37339. The most common access point is via the Savage Gulf South trailhead, which is a key part of the South Cumberland State Park system. Despite its primitive, backcountry nature, the campground is remarkably accessible, with a short walk from the parking area. The campground has a wheelchair-accessible car park, which is a significant convenience for all visitors. While the trails themselves can be rocky and rugged, the path to the campground is noted for being relatively easy and almost level, making it welcoming for a wide range of hikers, including families with children. On-site parking is available at the trailhead, which is a practical necessity for a campground of this type. This blend of accessibility and a deep-woods feel is what makes Collins West such a sought-after location for local hikers and campers.

Services Offered

• Backcountry Camping: The campground offers six primitive backcountry campsites, which must be reserved in advance through the Tennessee State Parks system.
• Public Toilets: A pit toilet (outhouse) is available, offering a basic but essential convenience for campers.

Features / Highlights

• Spectacular Views: Campsite #3 is particularly noted for its incredible views of the canyon, making it a highly desirable spot.
• Dog-Friendly: The campground welcomes dogs, allowing you to bring your furry friend along on your hiking and camping adventure.
• Good for Kids: The short hike-in distance and the availability of basic amenities make this a great place to introduce children to backpacking.
• Proximity to Waterfalls: The campground is a fairly easy walk down to Suter Falls, a majestic 40-foot waterfall.
• Picnic Areas: While not individual tables, the campsites are well-suited for setting up picnics, with fire pits and open space.

The reviews for Collins West Campground highlight its unique appeal and provide valuable, firsthand information for prospective campers. One review from a backpacker praised it as a "great backcountry campsite that's only a half mile walk that's almost level," calling it "ideal" for those new to backpacking. This camper appreciated the "creature comforts" of a pit toilet and noted the fantastic canyon views from specific sites, particularly #3. They also offered a useful tip about the nearby seasonal spring, which can have poor water quality after rain, recommending that campers bring their own water. This kind of practical advice is invaluable for a primitive campground and shows the kind of authentic experience you can expect.

Another review from a camper who stayed for four days confirmed the site's rustic nature, stating, "Bathroom was only an old out house so be prepared for no running water at all." Despite this, they "had a great time," which reinforces the idea that Collins West is for those who are prepared for and appreciate a genuine, primitive camping trip. The positive feedback consistently points to the campground's cleanliness and how well-cared-for it is, suggesting that despite the rustic facilities, the park service maintains it to a high standard. The reviews collectively confirm that while this is not a luxury camping destination, it delivers on its promise of a peaceful, well-maintained, and easily accessible backcountry experience. The fact that campers are already providing specific recommendations like "Campsite #3 is the best" speaks to a level of engagement and satisfaction that goes beyond a simple star rating, making it a trustworthy source of information for those planning their trip.

Contact Information

Address: Gruetli-Laager, TN 37339, USA

To contact the park office for South Cumberland/Savage Gulf State Parks, please refer to their official website or call the number listed for the main park office, as this is a primitive campground with no direct phone number.

What is worth choosing

Collins West Campground is an excellent choice for a wide variety of Tennessee campers, particularly those who are looking for a true backcountry experience without the overwhelming difficulty. What makes it so worthwhile is its unique blend of accessibility and a deep-woods feel. The short, half-mile hike-in is perfect for new backpackers, families with children, or anyone who wants to test out new gear without committing to a multi-day trek. The spectacular views, especially from sites like #3, provide an incredible reward for minimal effort. The presence of a pit toilet is a simple but important amenity that makes the primitive experience more manageable. The campground’s dog-friendly policy ensures that no member of the family has to be left behind. While it is essential to be prepared for the rustic conditions, such as the lack of running water, the overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight that the peaceful, well-maintained environment more than makes up for it. For anyone seeking a quiet retreat in one of Tennessee's most scenic state parks, Collins West offers a truly memorable and authentic camping adventure. It is a place that promises solitude and natural beauty, making it a top choice for a quick escape or an introduction to the joys of backpacking.

Collins West Campground

Gruetli-Laager, TN 37339, USA