Best Campgrounds near Bloomington Springs, TN
Center Hill Lake forms the centerpiece of camping opportunities near Bloomington Springs, Tennessee. The area features several established campgrounds including Edgar Evins State Park, Floating Mill Campground, and Defeated Creek Park, offering a range of accommodation options from tent and RV sites to cabins and glamping. Most campgrounds in this region provide water access, with Center Hill Lake and its tributaries creating numerous waterfront camping possibilities. Primitive camping areas exist alongside more developed sites with full hookups, particularly at places like Old Mill Camp and General Store in nearby Cookeville, which offers both tent and RV camping with modern amenities.
Seasonal considerations affect camping availability throughout the region, with several campgrounds operating only from spring through fall. Floating Mill operates from May through September, while Defeated Creek Campground remains open from mid-March to early November. Fall Creek Falls State Park and Rock Island State Park, both within driving distance, maintain year-round operations. Many campgrounds require reservations, especially during summer weekends and holidays when waterfront sites fill quickly. Cell service varies significantly throughout the area, with limited connectivity in more remote locations. A camper noted, "There wasn't a lot of cell phone coverage, but we didn't let that stop us from enjoying everything the park had to offer."
Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, with many campgrounds offering direct lake or river access. Center Hill Lake primitive camping areas provide more rustic experiences while still maintaining basic amenities like toilets and trash service. Several visitors mentioned the peaceful atmosphere and scenic views as highlights of their stays. One review described Floating Mill Campground as "an interesting campground in many ways" with "walk-in sites with some nice views" where "sitting on your deck overlooking the water would be plenty for many people just enjoying the moment." The region's campgrounds typically feature fire rings, picnic tables, and access to hiking trails, with state parks offering additional recreational opportunities including fishing, boating, and swimming areas.
