Camping near Lafayette, Tennessee offers access to both Cordell Hull Lake and Center Hill Lake within a 30-minute drive. The region sits at elevations between 500-1,200 feet, creating varied terrain from lakefront flats to wooded hills. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, while spring camping often faces afternoon thunderstorms that can quickly saturate unpaved sites.
What to Do
Fishing access points: At Defeated Creek Campground, the lake is steps away for shore fishing. "We always get sites on the water. The kids ride bikes and fish," mentions Holly G., who found the waterfront spots ideal for quick fishing access.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Edgar Evins State Park offers excellent deer spotting. "Deer would just walk up near you and just say hello. It's so peaceful," notes Grace E., who found the abundant wildlife a highlight of her stay.
Swimming beaches: Barren River Lake features dedicated swimming areas. "The beach was awesome. We swam at the beach, and in early September, we had the place to ourselves," shares Paul O., who appreciated having lake access without crowds during shoulder season.
Historical exploration: Cedar forests contain unique limestone formations. "The park was wet and infested with BOY SCOUTS! Facilities were clean, trails and signage well maintained. Historical stuff too," mentions Shelly S., who noted the educational opportunities beyond just natural features.
What Campers Like
Platform camping: Edgar Evins State Park offers unique raised deck campsites. "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," reports Betheny, who found the elevated sites provided better views than traditional pads.
Clean facilities: Bledsoe Creek State Park maintains excellent bathhouses. "The bathhouses were VERY clean, and the hosts were friendly and helpful," notes Robbie M., who found the cleanliness standards exceeded expectations even during busy periods.
Space between sites: COE Cordell Hull Lake Salt Lick Creek Campground provides generous site dimensions. "Great size sites. Many with waterfront property and others totally wooded. Shower house had amazing water pressure," reports Chris Y., who appreciated both the privacy and amenities.
Family activities: Cedar parks organize seasonal events. "Their halloween weekend is a great time of fun for the kids!" mentions Justin L., highlighting the organized activities that supplement natural recreation options.
What You Should Know
Cell service limitations: COE Cordell Hull Lake Salt Lick Creek Campground has virtually no connectivity. "There is absolutely no cell coverage for any carrier at the campground and about a 30 minute drive in any direction. Also no stores around as well," warns Chris Y., emphasizing the importance of bringing all supplies.
Site drainage issues: Gravel sites can become problematic after rain. "Site 22 has a slightly declined slope and is right next to another site that is a pull through. It is also right next to the main road for the park," explains Kyle S., highlighting how site selection impacts water runoff.
Tick prevalence: Wooded areas harbor ticks year-round. "Our dogs picked up ticks every day, and we had a few as well. Watch out for lyme and other tick born illnesses," cautions Kyle S., who encountered disease-carrying ticks during their stay.
Supply distance: Remote campgrounds require planning. "There is only one gas station within 30-45 minutes that have ice and firewood. Make sure to bring everything you need," advises Chris Y., noting the lack of nearby resupply options.
Tips for Camping with Families
Beach options: Defeated Creek Marina offers kid-friendly swimming. "Clean baths and sandy shore swimming area - book sites 90, 91 or 92!" recommends LuAnn R., who found these specific waterfront sites ideal for families with children.
Biking considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain for young cyclists. "It is pretty spread out, so biking with the family was a little challenging. And their bike loop was really pretty, but SUPER bumpy and hilly. Pretty hard for the younger ones," cautions Paul O., whose children struggled with the terrain.
Primitive camping access: Some parks offer backpack-in sites for more adventurous families. "We camped in the primitive camping section which has a parking area up top and you hike with your equipment down some stairs into a wooded area with about 7 primitive campsites," explains Emily W., describing the layout for families considering non-vehicle sites.
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: Baileys Point provides water and electric but limited sewer. "Beware of some of the best sites in the B loop. Some of them do not have electric hookup, but the view is amazing!" warns Beth H., highlighting the trade-off between premium views and full hookups.
Platform challenges: Edgar Evins State Park's unique design requires adaptation. "The sites are tiered and you will get a workout if your walking from one level to the next, which if you need the showerhouse, you will be on certain tiers," explains Shelly S., noting the physical demands of the multi-level design.
Dump station timing: Plan your departure to avoid waits. "Also gets a little crowded at the dump station on the weekends at check our time," advises Beth H., suggesting off-peak timing for easier service access.
