Camper submitted image from Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas — Center Hill Lake - 1

View Photos

Camper submitted image from Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas — Center Hill Lake - 2
Roads
Camper submitted image from Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas — Center Hill Lake - 3
Facilities
Camper submitted image from Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas — Center Hill Lake - 4
Nature
Camper submitted image from Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas — Center Hill Lake - 5
Buildings
Unlock Planning Tools in App

Established Camping

Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas — Center Hill Lake

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas, near Smithville, Tennessee, offers a straightforward camping experience for those looking to escape into nature. With sites that allow for both tent and RV camping, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to enjoy the great outdoors without the frills.

The campground is situated along the river, providing a scenic backdrop for activities like kayaking and fishing. Many visitors have enjoyed the spacious sites, particularly those near the water, which offer a peaceful setting for relaxation and outdoor fun. One camper noted, “We stayed right on the river for two nights and had a great time.”

While the amenities are basic, the campground allows campfires, which is perfect for gathering around in the evenings. Some campers have mentioned that the facilities are clean, and the views of the river are a highlight. However, be prepared for a no-frills experience, as there are no electric hookups or showers available.

For those who enjoy fishing, the nearby Caney Fork River is known for its trout, making it a popular spot for anglers. If you’re looking for a quiet place to unwind and connect with nature, Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas could be just the ticket.

Suggest an Edit

Location

Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas — Center Hill Lake is located in Tennessee

Detail location of campground

Directions

Directions to primitive camp sites start at the nearest USACE facility. The GPS coordinate \"Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas\" is for Center Hill Dam. 36\_\_05'52.3\"N 85\_\_49'32.4\"W or 36.097869, -85.825653

Coordinates

36.102344 N
85.829826 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-MobileLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Is Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas — Center Hill Lake sold out?

Quickly grab cancellations!

Learn More

Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
Belle and Beau Acres

Belle and Beau Acres

14 min away

Horseshoe Bend Marina

Horseshoe Bend Marina

42 min away

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-MobileLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • WiFi
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Water Hookups
  • Big Rig Friendly

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Reviews

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

30%
30%
20%
0%
20%

3.5

out of 5

10 Reviews

Reviewed May. 17, 2025

Beautiful campground

Only stopped for an overnight, so didn’t explore very much, but this is a very nice campground with large sites, hookups, a playground and friendly staff that’s still at work (6:30 pm as i write this).

Site48
Month of VisitMay
  • Play button icon
Reviewed Jul. 13, 2024

Don’t stay here

The people that run this campground are rude and considerate jerks and talk to my kids and I like we where not worth there time.

Site49
Month of VisitSeptember
Reviewed Oct. 15, 2023

Don’t stay here go somewhere els

 I have camped here for 18 to 20 years yearly multiple times a year I will not come back until the old people that work there no longer work there they’re unfriendly rude. Said I was feeding them a bull shot sandwich. It was 237. I was back in my truck up to my camper truck fully loaded camper broken down. All I do is hook up and pull out. He came up and goes. It’s 237. You know you need to fucking be gone by 2:30. I’m pulling out but check in is 330. They’re here early he said check-in is when I let them in that time doesn’t mean anything. Two months ago when I was here with my wife and kids. I had to wait two hours he said I don’t care what happened two months ago I said you know damn well I didn’t make a fuss about wanting I understood things happen but you coming over@2:37 talking to me like that there’s no excuse for that. He said I run this place the way I see fit. I said well you’re running all the young folks off and the old people can stay on their campsites till 530 and that’s OK but if I’m seven minutes late you come tell me to fucking move Kick rocks old man I won’t be coming back until he and his wife no longer work there and he is costing, the big rock at least$600 annually for my family not coming up there

Site56
Month of VisitOctober
Reviewed Sep. 5, 2022

Sweet little campground on the river

We loved our three nights at Long Branch. Nestled in downriver from the dam, this campground provides a great opportunity to kayak down the river. Sites 2-20 along the river are the best spots. We stayed at 15 and enjoyed the proximity to the river while feeling like we were close enough to its beauty.

Site15
Month of VisitSeptember
Reviewed Jul. 18, 2022

Large Site

We had a large campsite along the river, but our view was blocked by overgrowth. I was super disappointed as this was our last stop on a long road trip. We came here to trout fish and watch the river float by. We didn’t get to do either because the water was too high (not the fault of the campground). The camp host at check in wasn’t the friendliest person when we had a few questions. The bathhouse was clean. I did think that the dump station was located in a strange spot as it was right on the main road in The campground and in front of someone’s campsite. You had to walk across a large field to take your garbage to the dumpster. We left a day early. This was a one and done place for us.

Site5
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas — Center Hill Lake by Shana D., July 18, 2022
  • Review photo of Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas — Center Hill Lake by Shana D., July 18, 2022
  • Review photo of Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas — Center Hill Lake by Shana D., July 18, 2022
  • (12) View All
Reviewed Oct. 22, 2021

Peace of mind.

We recently moved from Idaho to Tennessee, we booked two spots at Long Branch to stay for two weeks. The views are beautiful, we visited in October, nice and warm during the day cool at night perfect for fires in the morning and at night. Nice size campground clean and well kept. Bathrooms are fabulous.

No laundry at this campgrounds, internet is hit or miss if you don't have internet in your trailer. But we're on Verizon and we seem to get it very well in the morning and during the day.

All in all the site is clean, quiet, and beautiful, right at the base of a dam, and the river flowing next to us is gorgeous. Wish they stayed open all year long but they don't. We will be back early for camping on the weekends.

There is a little noise from the road but not very often only when cars pass.

Site37/38
Month of VisitOctober
Reviewed Jul. 21, 2020

Mixed bag of Campsites

We ususally try to find the Army Corp of Engineers campgrounds as they're so nice!  This particular one has two areas - the main one and a few separated campsites over a bridge.  We were over the bridge and I would not recommend it - dogs could not cross bridge and sites are very small.

Facilities clean and well lit.

Site51
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Jun. 13, 2019

Spacious and clean

Enjoyable camp ground.  Sites are nice and large, easy to back into.  There are steps down to the river.  Many sites have plenty of shade especially the ones in the small loop. I will be coming back here for sure.

Site17
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas — Center Hill Lake by Gabe W., June 13, 2019
Reviewed May. 19, 2018

Riverside

Nice and quiet with a beautiful view of Caney Fork River . World class trout fishing.

Site11
Month of VisitMay

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to camp at Center Hill Lake?

Center Hill Lake camping fees vary by site type and location. The campground is managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, which typically offers reasonable rates compared to private campgrounds. For specific pricing, it's best to contact the campground directly or check the official Corps of Engineers website as fees may vary by season and site type. Riverfront sites may come at a premium price compared to standard spots.

What camping options are available at Center Hill Lake?

Center Hill Lake offers several camping options including the main campground area and primitive sites. Long Branch campground features spacious sites along the Caney Fork River with both riverfront and non-riverfront options. The campground has two distinct areas - a main section and a smaller area accessible via a bridge. The sites in the small loop area provide good shade. For a more natural experience, primitive camping areas are available. Sites vary in size, with many being large enough for easy backing in of camping vehicles.

What recreational activities are available at Center Hill Lake?

Center Hill Lake offers abundant recreational opportunities, with world-class trout fishing in the Caney Fork River being a major highlight. The area is perfect for kayaking downstream from the dam. Campers enjoy swimming and water activities at the lake, though water levels can fluctuate depending on dam operations. The campground provides steps down to the river for easy access. Beyond water activities, visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and relaxing around evening campfires. The beautiful river views make this a scenic spot for outdoor photography and nature appreciation.

How do I get to Center Hill Dam Campground?

Center Hill Dam Campground is located downstream from Center Hill Dam on the Caney Fork River. From Nashville, take I-40 East toward Cookeville, then follow signs to Center Hill Lake and the dam. The campground is situated below the dam with the main entrance clearly marked. Some areas of the campground are accessible via a bridge. Upon arrival, you'll find the check-in area where staff can direct you to your specific site.