Dale Hollow Lake and Center Hill Lake create a serene environment for glamping close to Gainesboro, Tennessee. The Cumberland Plateau region sits at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 feet, providing cooler summer nights than surrounding lowlands. Several campgrounds near Gainesboro offer wooden platform sites that stay dry during frequent spring and fall precipitation, with most sites accepting reservations up to 6 months in advance.
What to do
Kayaking in secluded coves: At Lillydale Campground, visitors can experience paddling through pristine water environments. "The lake has dozens of little 'fingers' and 'tendrils,' making for great little coves to paddle, explore, or just find some peace and quiet," notes Mike G. The minimal shoreline development creates a more natural paddling experience.
Trout fishing year-round: The Dale Hollow Dam area offers exceptional fishing opportunities below the dam. "Campground parallels the Obey River. Plenty of fish opportunities from boat, kayak, wading and shoreline," explains Kenny P. The nearby fish hatchery ensures consistent stocking of rainbow trout.
Hiking unique limestone terrain: Discover the cedar glades and limestone formations at Cedars of Lebanon State Park. "The natural area where it's located features tons of endemic species to the area!" shares Phoebe A. Several trails showcase the distinctive karst topography with sinkholes and unusual plant life adapted to thin, alkaline soil.
What campers like
Platform camping experience: The platform sites at Edgar Evins State Park create a distinct camping setup. "The sites are tiered and you will get a workout if you're walking from one level to the next," notes Shelly S. The elevated platforms provide better airflow and separation from potentially wet ground.
Primitive island camping: For a more secluded glamping experience near Gainesboro, Tennessee, consider Lillydale's island sites. "The tent camp sites on the island were aptly distanced from one another. The other campers seemed to have an unspoken sense of support," reports The Grass F. The island requires using carts to transport gear, creating a more intentional camping experience.
Clean facilities even in remote settings: Many reviewers note the maintenance level at Cumberland Mountain State Park. "The campground has clean water, plenty of hookups and is so incredibly quiet," states Paige D. Bathhouses are typically cleaned twice daily during peak season months.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds in the region experience road noise. "One advantage/disadvantage is it is located right off 40. If you are placed in one of the sites in the front it's going to be very noisy," explains Angela C. about Spacious Skies Belle Ridge. Request sites farther from highways when making reservations.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. "There was no wifi or cable/TV connection and we had zero cell phone coverage (our carrier is T-Mobile)," reports Megan C. about Lillydale Campground. Some parks offer limited WiFi near office areas, but many campgrounds remain digital deserts.
Site leveling challenges: The hilly terrain creates naturally uneven sites. "Not all are completely level," notes Lee D. about Rock Island State Park. Bring leveling blocks for RVs and look for designated tent pads when tent camping.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible swimming options: Several parks offer controlled swimming environments. "We stayed in a lot right on the lake and hiked down a few rocks to go swimming in the lake before dinner," shares one camper. Rock Island State Park provides "a swimming beach with a rentable pavilion and picnic tables" according to Lee D.
Child-friendly activities: Parks maintain dedicated recreation areas for younger visitors. "It has a park and volleyball area for kids to play at," mentions Chastity G. about Dale Hollow Dam campground. The fishing hatchery tours are particularly engaging for school-age children.
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds require careful planning with children. Regarding Edgar Evins, Leslie R. notes, "Each campsite was a ramp overlook, quite a pretty view, but people were all crowded with their tents on this wooden ramp." Platform sites may require extra vigilance with very young children.
Tips from RVers
Dump station timing: During peak seasons, plan for potential waits. "Also gets a little crowded at the dump station on the weekends at check out time," advises Beth H. about Bailey's Point campground. Arriving mid-week typically provides more flexibility.
Platform site considerations: RVers at Edgar Evins State Park should research their specific site dimensions. "Be wary of the speed bumps throughout the campground, they are closely spaced and rather abrupt, take them very slowly," warns Ray & Terri F. The platforms accommodate most medium-sized RVs but can present challenges for larger rigs.
Utility options vary significantly: Not all parks offer complete hookups. "With only one non improved site I was a little hesitant of this site. I didn't really need electricity but I went ahead and opted into the $27 site," explains Crystal C. about Dale Hollow Dam. Some campgrounds provide 50-amp service only, requiring adapters for 30-amp rigs.
