Edgar Evins State Park offers unique platform camping experiences built over Center Hill Lake, creating a distinct type of glamping in Granville, Tennessee. These elevated wooden decks range from 18 to 51 feet in length. Sites at Edgar Evins are tiered, requiring some effort to reach bathhouses and facilities on different levels. The park sits at approximately 900 feet elevation and features limestone formations throughout the landscape.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground features numerous trail options, from short paths to overnight hikes. "One of the best hiking parks I've ever been to. Miles and miles of trails; short, long, loops, overnights. This place has it all," notes Myke C. The Cable Trail is particularly recommended, offering a more challenging route.
Swimming spots beyond the lake: Rock Island State Park Campground offers swimming beaches and natural water features. "The kids had the best time," shares Drew E., who visited with a day pass costing $5 per adult with children under 6 free. The park maintains an Olympic-sized pool with diving boards and snack options during summer months.
Fishing opportunities: Dale Hollow Damsite provides excellent fishing access along the Obey River. "Plenty of fish opportunities from boat, kayak, wading and shoreline," explains Kenny P., though he recommends bringing plenty of ice as "there is no ice machine on site. Nearest place to get ice is 2 miles away in Celina TN."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many glamping options near Granville provide separation between accommodations. At Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground, "The spots are decently spaced apart with many trees," according to Laura C. Sites in loops 2 and 3 offer more privacy than section 1, which tends to have smaller, more cramped sites.
Clean facilities: Baileys Point maintains well-kept bathhouses and grounds. One camper noted, "Shower house was clean," while another mentioned the grounds were "very clean and maintained including the bath house." Most glamping locations near Granville prioritize facility cleanliness, with regular maintenance schedules.
Accessibility for beginners: Several locations are suitable for first-time glampers. "A great place for novice campers due to the fact that the facilities are very nice. Modern bathhouses located in each camping area, swimming pool, golf course and restaurant make roughing it easier," explains Sandra V. about Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground.
What you should know
Platform camping challenges: The wooden deck sites at Edgar Evins State Park Campground can feel unusual to some campers. "It is the weirdest idea of camping I've ever seen. Each campsite was a ramp overlook, quite a pretty view, but people were all crowded with their tents on this wooden ramp. The fire pit was elsewhere," noted Leslie R., who decided the setup wasn't suitable for their needs.
Busy seasons require advance planning: Most glamping sites near Granville fill quickly during peak seasons. Baileys Point often reaches capacity, with one regular visitor advising, "Book early as the campground fills up often." Holiday weekends and summer months typically see the highest demand.
Access considerations: Some areas have challenging terrain. Gregory G. observed at Cedars of Lebanon, "Keep in mind, while making reservations, section 1 has very small, cramped together sites," recommending sections 2 and 3 for more space and privacy.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Nashville East-Lebanon KOA provides family-friendly amenities including play areas for children. A visitor mentioned, "There is a lot of kids! Mainly kids with parents," making it suitable for family outings. Most sites have picnic tables and fire rings for family meals.
Swimming options: Belle Ridge Retreat offers multiple water recreation areas specifically designed for children. "Took my kids swimming here last weekend. We got a day use pass pass $5 per adult. Kids under 6 are free to get in so all my kids were free. The kids had the best time," shares Drew E.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer ranger-led programs. At Edgar Evins, a camper described a "Very informative pontoon boat tour with a Park Ranger. Great lunch at the marina too!" These educational components enhance glamping experiences for families with children of various ages.
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Many RV sites in the Granville area require leveling equipment. At Nashville East-Lebanon KOA, one RVer warned, "The site was nowhere near level side to side," while another advised, "Bring leveling blocks" because "the entire campground is kinda hilly."
Site selection for larger rigs: Some campgrounds have specific loops better suited for larger vehicles. One RVer at Cedars of Lebanon noted, "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."
Speed bump awareness: When driving through campgrounds, proceed with caution over speed management features. "Be wary of the speed bumps throughout the campground, they are closely spaced and rather abrupt, take them very slowly," warns an RVer about Edgar Evins State Park Campground.
