Looking for the Best Camping in Tennessee?

Tennessee has a way of stealing your breath. The Smoky Mountains, the rolling hills, the quiet valleys that seem to hum with secrets. But there’s a place that doesn’t beg for attention. We’re tucked into 600 acres in Pleasantville, just a short drive from Nashville, where the air feels fresher and the days seem to stretch a little longer. We’ve been here since 1940, turning strangers into friends among old-growth forests and trickling springs.

Yes, we’re a Christian camp connected to the Presbytery of Middle Tennessee and the Mid-South. But that’s not all we are. We welcome anyone craving a break, a laugh, or a moment to breathe. Summer camps for kids? Absolutely. Family getaways? We love them. Group retreats? We’ve got room for more than 300. We’re not your average campground. We’re the kind of place where stories begin, and stick with you long after you’ve left.

Let the Summer Adventures Begin

At our summer camps, kids stay active, try new things, and build real connections. We offer programs for every age, from curious second graders to high schoolers looking for something deeper. Each camp offers a different experience, shaped by the age group and the kind of adventure they’re ready for.

• Express Camp A three-day adventure for rising 2nd to 4th graders. It’s short, exciting, and just right for first-time campers. Activities include creek splashing, beginner-friendly archery, and simple crafts that kids are proud to take home. Campers sleep in cabins, enjoy meals together, and get their first taste of camp life in a fun and comfortable setting.

• Springs Camp A full week built for rising 3rd to 5th graders. This is where campers start to dive into the rhythm of camp, with canoeing, kayaking, nature hikes, camp-wide games, and sleeping under the stars. They grow more independent, make lasting friendships, and try new things in a safe, encouraging space.

• Village Camp For rising 6th to 8th graders, Village Camp brings a little more adventure. Along with favorites like swimming and archery, campers take on the zipline and the Giant Swing. One night is spent camping outside in shelters, building resilience and trust with their group. It's a time when middle schoolers can challenge themselves and begin stepping into leadership.

• Ridge Camp Designed for rising 9th to 12th graders, Ridge Camp blends the best parts of traditional camp with deeper moments for reflection and connection. Campers enjoy all the usual activities while also engaging in conversations that help them think about faith, purpose, and their role in the world. It’s a week full of laughter, movement, and meaning.

• Eclipse Camp For rising 6th to 12th graders who thrive after dark, Eclipse flips the schedule and brings the energy. Picture archery by flashlight, glow-in-the-dark games, late-night worship, and creative challenges that come alive under the stars. It’s unusual in the best way, offering something different for campers who want a twist on the typical routine.

• Verge Camp This is for rising 11th and 12th graders ready to lead. Verge is our Counselor-in-Training program, where teens learn the basics of leadership, responsibility, and camp management. They shadow staff, guide younger campers, and build skills that go far beyond the week. It’s hands-on, high-energy, and helps shape the next generation of camp leaders.

Each day starts with a hearty breakfast, followed by a full schedule. Maybe archery, maybe hiking, maybe a dip in the creek. At night, we gather around the fire. We sing, we share, and sometimes we just sit under the stars. Faith is part of the camp rhythm through daily worship and group chats. Nothing is forced, just space to reflect and reconnect. Our cabins are cozy, our counselors are sharp, and the energy is electric. Everyone finds their thing here.

What to Know Before Camp Starts

• Packing made easy We keep things simple, but it helps to come prepared. From swimsuits to flashlights, we’ve created a short packing list so campers feel ready from day one. You can find it on our website or reach out if you have any questions.

• Safety is a priority All staff go through training in safety procedures, first aid, and youth leadership before the season begins. We stay present with each group, offering guidance, support, and attention every step of the way.

• Campers are in good hands Some kids are stepping into their first camp experience, and others have been with us for years. Either way, we make sure everyone feels welcomed, cared for, and safe throughout their stay.

A Weekend to Reconnect

If you’ve ever wanted to hit pause and simply enjoy time with your family, our Family Camp offers that chance. It’s built for every generation, from kindergartners to grandparents, and creates space to unplug and reconnect without the usual distractions.

You’ll hike through forests that smell like pine and earth. Paddle a canoe and laugh when no one can steer straight. At night, we gather around the fire and let stories spill out. We also offer time for grown-ups to recharge, with adult Bible studies included in the weekend rhythm.

The experience brings everyone a little closer. You’ll talk more, listen better, and notice the small things again. Our staff will be there to welcome you, help you settle in, and make sure your family feels cared for from the moment you arrive.

Retreats for Every Group

NaCoMe welcomes all kinds of groups. Small crew of 15? Big gathering of 300? We’re ready. From corporate events to church trips to family reunions, we’ve hosted them all. Our cabins include heat, air conditioning, and private bathrooms, so there’s no need to rough it unless that’s your thing. Meeting spaces range from cozy rooms to large open halls. And the food? It’s homemade, fresh, and often the reason people go back for seconds.

The activity lineup brings it all together:

• Archery – hit the target and cheer each other on

• Canoeing – quiet mornings on the water

• Ziplining – high energy and fast fun

• Team challenges – crate stacking, low ropes, and more

Each retreat is shaped to fit your group’s pace and purpose. Some prefer a full schedule, others keep it open. Either way, we’ll help make it work. Pricing can shift based on your needs, and we’ll walk you through it. Groups like Church of the City and Memphis North Stake return again and again because they feel the warmth, the care, and the connection this place offers.

Why NaCoMe Feels Different

Tennessee has plenty of beautiful places, but NaCoMe Camp & Retreat Center offers something more lasting. The land stretches across 600 acres of quiet trails, flowing springs, and open skies. It’s a space where kids grow in confidence, families reconnect in meaningful ways, and groups find new purpose together. Faith is part of what we do, gently woven into the rhythm of each day, never forced or loud.

If you're looking for something that feels honest and meaningful, we’d be glad to welcome you. Visit the NaCoMe Camp & Retreat Center website to learn more about our camps, retreats, and programs. Reach out with questions, explore what feels right for you, and come spend time in a place where connection comes naturally.