Dispersed camping options near Granville, Tennessee span across the Cumberland River and Cordell Hull Lake watersheds. The area sits within the Highland Rim geographic region at elevations between 500-1000 feet, experiencing typical middle Tennessee seasonal variations with humid summers and mild winters. Fall temperatures can drop rapidly, while spring brings significant rainfall amounts averaging 4-5 inches monthly.
What to do
Hiking the Bearwaller Gap Trail: Access this 6-mile trail near Defeated Creek Campground for moderate to strenuous hiking with lake views. "The Bearwaller Gap Trail is right near the campground, and the trailhead was super close to our site. It's a 6 mile trail (one way), and it's a pretty strenuous hike," notes Cassandra C.
Boat access and fishing: The Cumberland River at Holleman's Bend Camping Area provides fishing opportunities throughout the day and evening. "I woke up early enough to see the sunrise and the fog coming off the river. Simply magical," writes Devin R., highlighting the morning river conditions that attract anglers.
Kayaking on Cordell Hull Lake: Put in directly from waterfront sites at Floating Mill Campground for paddling. "Many sites have their own water access. You have to take steps down from the parking lot to get to your campsite," explains Clinton N., describing the setup for water access.
What campers like
Waterfront camping sites: Floating Mill - Center Hill Lake offers direct lake access from many sites. "Beautiful view from our camp site. It was one of the cleanest campsites I have been to. The park guy was very nice," shares Emily H., noting the maintenance standards.
Peace and quiet: The remote location of COE Cordell Hull Lake Salt Lick Creek Campground provides a genuine escape. "We went for an evening swim and we had a picturesque view of the sun setting over the mountains. This campground is situated perfectly alongside the creek in the mountains of Tennessee," writes Kristin K., describing the evening atmosphere.
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate room to spread out at many area campgrounds. "Really large grassy sites with plenty of room to maneuver an even. Perfect place for group camping. Overlooks river," shares Terri D. about Defeated Creek Park, highlighting the ample space available.
What you should know
No cell service: Most campgrounds in the area have limited or no connectivity. "There is absolutely no cell coverage for any carrier at the campground and about a 30 minute drive in any direction," warns Chris Y. at Salt Lick Creek, emphasizing the isolation factor.
Limited supplies: Stock up before arriving as shopping options are minimal. "There is only one gas station within 30-45 minutes that have ice and firewood. Make sure to bring everything you need," adds Chris Y., highlighting the supply limitations.
Temperature fluctuations: Spring and fall bring significant weather changes. "The day I got there it was 70, rain came in and temperature dropped to the 30s. In late April," reports Mathew P., confirming the rapid temperature shifts typical in this region.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Edgar Evins State Park Campground offers water access suitable for children. "We stayed at site #10 on Lake Loop, and we loved it. It wasn't completely flat for the tents, but close enough," shares Cassandra C., describing her family's lakefront experience.
Playground availability: Several campgrounds include play areas for children to burn energy. "Nice bathhouses but could use some updating. Very close stores and a boat rental and restaurant at the beginning of the park," writes Chris W., noting the family-friendly amenities.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids can spot deer and other wildlife throughout the area. "There are deer everywhere in park(fawns and even Bucks). Like COE's it is spacious with good space between sites," writes Larry S., describing the wildlife viewing potential.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require careful setup. "We were in site 68 and had plenty of room. The site had plenty of space, level, and fairly easy to back into," explains Mike M., offering insight on site selection at Salt Lick Creek.
RV site selection: Look for pull-through options at certain campgrounds to avoid tight turns. "Sites 51 and 52 are a shared pull through site, so if you book one of them, you will more than likely have people you don't know backed up right close next to you," cautions Campfiresandcoffee94, sharing important site selection information.
RV platform campsites: Edgar Evins State Park features unique platform sites. "The sites are all elevated platforms due to the steep slope to the lake, which we had not encountered before, but are very widely spaced. We were in site 50, which had no visibility to DISH west satellites," explains Ray & Terri F., describing the distinctive camping experience.
