Camping near Granville, Tennessee ranges from free primitive tent camping to developed RV campsites with electric hookups, water, and sewer connections, centered primarily on reservoir shorelines and Corps of Engineers managed lands. Holleman's Bend Camping Area provides free primitive tent camping on a peninsula extending into Cordell Hull Lake, while COE Salt Lick Creek offers more developed facilities for both tent and RV campers. The region includes several marinas with cabin rentals, including Wildwood Resort and Marina and Defeated Creek Marina, providing options for those seeking amenities beyond traditional camping.
Most campgrounds in the area maintain seasonal operations, with many Corps of Engineers sites open April through September or October. "This is a perfect spot to just hideaway for a bit," noted one visitor about Salt Lick Creek Campground, highlighting its seclusion. Cell service is notably limited or non-existent at many locations, particularly at Salt Lick Creek and Holleman's Bend, requiring campers to plan accordingly. The area experiences typical Tennessee seasonal patterns with hot, humid summers and mild winters, though spring and fall offer the most comfortable camping conditions. Most waterfront sites require advance reservations during peak summer months, while primitive areas like Holleman's Bend operate on a first-come basis with 14-day stay limits.
Waterfront access represents the primary draw for most campgrounds in the region, with sites directly on Cordell Hull Lake commanding the highest demand. A camper reviewing Holleman's Bend noted, "I woke up early enough to see the sunrise and the fog coming off the river. Simply magical." The more developed campgrounds provide amenities like electric hookups, water, and occasionally sewer connections, while primitive sites offer a more rustic experience. Visitors frequently mention the clean facilities at Corps of Engineers campgrounds, though the remote locations mean limited access to supplies—the nearest stores and gas stations may be 30-45 minutes away. For those seeking a balance between amenities and nature, the campgrounds near Granville provide boat ramps, swimming areas, and occasionally on-site restaurants or small markets.
"I'm from New England and relocated to Tennessee in 2016. The first time I went camping at Edgar Evans, I had no idea what was going on!"
"The park is a gorgeous property with a lake and hiking trails. There are ADA sights. The hills are steep and some of the sights have angle ramps."
$25 - $100 / night
"Our site was atop a hill overlooking Cordell Hull Lake. The place was nearly full capacity yet quiet. Sites are spread out nicely, many are lakeside or have lake views."
"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."
$20 - $50 / night
"Our site was right on the creek and very near the beach. We went for an evening swim and we had a picturesque view of the sun setting over the mountains."
"And it was adequate but situated on an inlet with mucky water. We took a walk and found an empty site (45) with breathtaking views. We asked to switch and they were happy to oblige."
"I would stay away from the pull through sites by the bathroom if You prefer privacy."
"If you arrive early and are wanting to fully hike down to the waters it is a must to arrive early and by the time you finish enjoying activities driving is not something that sounds appealing."
$24 - $50 / night
"2nd the layout is more tent friendly (to me) with walk in sites with some nice views."
"It was okay, but not good for anyone who cannot handle a lot of stairs. 2) There was a lot of boat traffic on the lake, even late into the night."
"We thought this was a bust, turned around to leave, and then we spotted the gravel path into the site. It's easy to miss on the way in."
"While the cell service was a bit spotty, it actually helped me disconnect and enjoy the surroundings. Overall, a great site—quiet, scenic, and well worth the visit."
$30 - $50 / night
"We recently moved from Idaho to Tennessee, we booked two spots at Long Branch to stay for two weeks."
"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."
$25 - $168 / night
"Clean Beautiful
Nature
Bird watching
Near waterfalls
Only 1 hour away from Nashville airport"
$25 - $30 / night
"The campground at Cedars of Lebanon State Park deserves 5 stars for their proximity to Nashville, the large paved pads for campers, the peaceful woods, and their overall cleanliness."
"We hiked some of the 2 mile running trail and then veered off to explore the CCC original looking covered bench which overlooks a currently dry stream bed."
GuideArrived late, but had no problem finding a nice flat spot in the grass. Very quiet. Two clean porta potties as well as trash cans and picnic tables, everything well maintained. Perfect spot with the dog. Only drawback was minimal service with Verizon. Bonus is the super cute town of Granville (world’s largest decanter collection and town is decorated as Little Mayberry). Would definitely stay again.
TravelerWe had such a lovely stay at Born Again. We were genuinely surprised to be the only guests over Memorial Day weekend! Peggy was an absolute gem - so kind, generous, and truly someone with a heart of gold. It’s clear she has poured so much love and care into the campground, and it shows in every detail. The entire place is perfectly eclectic, charming, and delightfully quirky.
Her sweet dog, Lily, kept us company throughout our stay and quickly won our hearts. We also had visits from Boots the cat, who was just as friendly and welcoming. Peggy kindly let us peek into each of the themed cabins, and it was easy to see the thoughtfulness and creativity behind every space. Each cabin felt carefully curated to match its theme, making the experience even more special.
Her husband, Tony, also stopped by to say hello, adding to the warm, welcoming atmosphere. Overall, this was such a special place, and we already can’t wait for our next visit.
ScoutGreat folks to work with hand an amazing time will be back again and again must check it out for yalls own selves!
TravelerThe people who said this is just a parking lot probably never found the actual campsite, I almost missed it too! Cell service cut out far down the road, but since there were no turns we just kept going until we found the boat ramp (gravel lot, clear No Camping signs). We thought this was a bust, turned around to leave, and then we spotted the gravel path into the site. It's easy to miss on the way in. It's a small camping area between the boat ramp and the equestrian trail head, with two foot paths. One path leads to more sites closer to the water (still close enough to easily carry supplies) and the other leads to the equestrian section and a portapotty. Dyrt's location pin is for the boat ramp not the campsite, see my map for a more accurate location. It was quiet and relatively clean, with some horseback riders passing through during the day.
GuideDefeated Creek Campground Defeated, TN site L14. I’m not sure how we’ve gotten so lucky this year, but we’ve had 2 amazing sites back to back. Defeated Creek is another beautiful campground. We had another waterfront site, facing west, so the sunsets were amazing. Not a long walk to the bathhouse, volleyball area, or playground. It also has a beach and tons of room to go fishing. Lots of wildlife, we even spotted a couple of cows in the park lol. Chelle was able to launch her kayak just about 10 yards from our camper. The camp host are a very sweet older couple and the place is very well kept. It can be hard to get reservations here, so get a jump on that 6 month booking window. That said, if you can’t get in here, try Salt Lick Creek Campground in Gainesboro. The spaces are further apart and it’s very well kept also. Although we just drove through, I think it would also be a great place to stay.
ScoutStayed on a Thursday night at a pitch a tent spot. Beautiful farm but unfortunately the tent spots are right next to a very noisy 4 lane highway.
GuideI've lived close to Cages Bend for over 50 years, but have never camped here until this past weekend. Man I didn't know what i was missing. This little hidden gem is the perfect spot on Old Hickory Lake for camping and taking in an amazing sunrise. You can easily launch your kayak from the shore or catch that big bass you've been trying for. They have a boat launch if you want to bring that or your Jet ski with you. Lots of trees help keep the summer heat from beating down on you and did I mention wildlife? We saw tons of Deer, Ducks, Geese, squirrels, Turtles and snakes, but thankfully the snakes stayed in the water! The camp host, Tanya and Donnie(i hope i got their names right) were amazing from Day 1. Very helpful and kind, blows my mind to see any negative reviews about them, they were truly Amazing! The campground is kept very clean and they take pride in keeping it that way. We stayed in spot 28 the first night, then moved over to 30 for 4 nights. Both of them are great sites. We have verizon phone/internet service and it worked perfectly there. I could go on and on, but i'll finish by saying, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND a visit to Cages Bend Campground. We camped at over 50 campgrounds and this is in my top 3!
GuidePossibly the most extraordinary campsite I have been to. Large decks suspended over the hillside, some with excellent views of the lake. We were here for one night off season, I imagine if you are here in summer you wouldn’t want to be on the side of the marina. We were originally in site 7, but moved to 53… sites 1-12 definitely take some parking skills
ScoutWe camped at Howland's Hideout for two nights in our 5th wheel (water & electric hook-up plus they have a sewer dump).
So conveniently located (approx. 3 miles) from Fall Creek Falls State Park but much less noise and more relaxed.
The hosts (Kurt and Maria) went above and beyond to be sure we had everything we needed and so enjoyed getting to know them.
Their two dogs (Star & Sassy) were very friendly and our dog loved playing with them.
If you are looking for a relaxing spot to camp with great hosts, you should definitely give this place a try. We can't wait to go back.
Arnold & Debra Puckett
Primitive camping spots near Granville, Tennessee center on waterways and forested areas with limited facilities. Cordell Hull Lake dominates the region with multiple shoreline access points between 500-650 feet elevation. The landscape features limestone formations and mixed hardwood forests that provide natural boundaries between campsites.
Kayak launch access: At Holleman's Bend Camping Area, primitive shoreline camping offers direct water entry. "I woke up early enough to see the sunrise and the fog coming off the river. Simply magical," notes Devin R., who also recommends visiting Nostalgic Coffee Cafe in nearby Gainesboro.
Hiking trails: Explore the Lost Spring Trail at Floating Mill - Center Hill Lake, which features lookout points above the marina. A visitor noted, "There's a small hiking trail in the park also called the 'lost spring trail' not much of a spring to see, but a couple of lookout points."
Trout fishing: The rivers below Center Hill Dam provide cold-water habitat for trout. "Nice and quiet with a beautiful view of Caney Fork River. World class trout fishing," reports Marsha G. about riverside camping options, with sites offering direct water access for anglers.
Waterfront campsites: Defeated Creek Campground features spacious sites along Cordell Hull Lake. "The campsites are spaced apart and are nice size. We always get sites on the water. The kids ride bikes and fish," explains Holly G., highlighting the versatility for families.
Elevated platform sites: Edgar Evins State Park Campground offers unique wooden deck campsites built on the steep slopes. "We love the platform sites that are so spacious and private. Easy access to dump station and bath houses. Almost all sites have view of water," notes Betheny.
Clean facilities: Restrooms at most established campgrounds receive regular maintenance despite remote locations. "The bathhouse was clean. Great location close to Cummins Falls, Burgess and others," states Clinton N. about Floating Mill, reflecting the standard maintained at Corps of Engineers sites.
Cell service limitations: Most camping areas have minimal to no connectivity. "No cell service for any carrier at the campground and about a 30 minute drive in any direction," warns Chris Y. about COE Cordell Hull Lake Salt Lick Creek Campground, adding "no stores around as well."
Supply planning: The rural nature requires bringing most supplies. "Make sure to bring everything you need," advises Chris Y., noting "There is only one gas station within 30-45 minutes that have ice and firewood."
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate from April through September or October. "It gets chilly up there too. The day I got there it was 70, rain came in and temperature dropped to the 30s. In late April," reports Mathew P. about Salt Lick Creek.
Swimming areas: Old Mill Camp and General Store provides clean facilities near water recreation spots. "The bathhouse was clean and the showers were the nicest I've ever used. Single walk in showers with plenty of room," mentions Raeann B.
Privacy considerations: Some tent areas feature closely spaced sites. "Many of the sites were very close together. The weekend we stayed they were fully booked and we had site 31. Once everyone got in, it was a little noisy but nothing horrible," explains Raeann B.
Water access planning: For families with boats, consider logistics for launching and overnight storage. "We stayed at site 10 on Lake Loop, and we loved it. The Bearwaller Gap Trail is right near the campground, and the trailhead was super close to our site," describes Cassandra C. about Floating Mill.
Site leveling challenges: Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground offers RV camping with varied site quality. "We traveled in a 29' motorhome. We stayed in section 1, site 22. It was right beside the shower house. It was a pull through site, but it was a little tight," reports Gregory G.
Electric hookups: Check power requirements when booking. "To my surprise I opened the electric pedestal, and there was only 50 amp service. I'm set up for 30 amp, so I had to use an adapter," cautions Gregory G.
Site selection: Consider site location relative to amenities. "Keep in mind, while making reservations, section 1 has very small, cramped together sites. We took a walk around section 2, and section 3. There was a lot more room, and seemed a little more private," suggests Gregory G.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Granville, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Granville, TN offers a wide range of camping options, with 139 campgrounds and RV parks near Granville, TN and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Granville, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Granville, TN is Edgar Evins State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 59 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Granville, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Granville, TN.
What parks are near Granville, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 24 parks near Granville, TN that allow camping, notably Stillhouse Hollow Lake and Center Hill Lake.
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