Cordell Hull Lake and the surrounding area near Lafayette, Tennessee provide camping options ranging from established campgrounds to primitive sites. The region sits within a moderately hilly section of the Highland Rim at approximately 500-600 feet elevation, with limestone karst topography creating unique landscapes. Water level fluctuations on Cordell Hull Lake can vary seasonally by 5-10 feet, affecting shoreline conditions at waterfront campsites.
What to do
Hiking the Bearwaller Gap Trail: This 6-mile one-way trail near Defeated Creek Campground offers moderately challenging terrain. "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.
Swimming at designated beach areas: Several campgrounds maintain swimming areas with sandy shorelines. At Barren River Lake State Resort Park Campground, "They have a beautiful beach which is why we came back here but unfortunately it was closed due to all the rain and high waters," reports Dawn C.
Boat rental opportunities: Explore lake waters through local marina services. "The Marina isn't far from the campsite just across the street, they have ice and firewood along with food and drinks," explains Campfiresandcoffee94.
Fossil hunting along shorelines: Some areas offer interesting geological exploration. "Enjoyed hanging out in the water and finding fossils on the rocky beach. Kayaking was easy and fun," notes reviewer C O.
What campers like
Large, spacious sites: Many campgrounds in the area provide ample room between sites. "Really large grassy sites with plenty of room to maneuver. Perfect place for group camping. Overlooks river," says Terri D. about COE Cordell Hull Lake Salt Lick Creek Campground.
Lakefront camping options: Direct water access ranks high among camper preferences. "We always get sites on the water. The kids ride bikes and fish," shares Holly G. Site selection can significantly impact your experience: "We started at site 18, which looked great on paper. 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."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained grounds and amenities receive consistent praise. At Mammoth Cave Campground, campers report "People here were kind and trustworthy. People were charging their power stations unattended in the bathrooms. We were given extra wood by our neighbors."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural setting provides animal sightings. "There are deer everywhere in park (fawns and even Bucks). Like COE's it is spacious with good space between sites," writes Larry S.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have minimal connectivity. "This is negative only because of bad weather alerts," explains a reviewer at Defeated Creek. Similarly, at Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground, "Like most parks/forests, you cannot bring your own fire wood."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts facilities and conditions. "One thing I love is that they have plenty of drive through spaces which makes it so much easier to park. The spaces are close together though," notes Dawn C.
Varying site layouts: Some campgrounds feature unique configurations. At Edgar Evins State Park Campground, "The campground is unique and in some cases, if your pulling/parking an RV, Challenging! First campground I've ever been to that you park on a deck."
Insect awareness: Ticks are prevalent in wooded areas. "If you plan to go hiking on the trails that are surrounding the area please know that there heavily wooded areas with ticks, we found out the hard way," warns Campfiresandcoffee94.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Lafayette maintain play areas. At Baileys Point, "It has nice showers and plenty of restrooms 3 or 4 playground areas and a volleyball court," according to Felicia W.
Beach swimming options: Sandy shoreline areas provide kid-friendly water access. "The beach was awesome. We swam at the beach, and in early September, we had the place to ourselves," shares Paul O.
Biking opportunities: Paved and unpaved paths offer recreational cycling, though some present challenges. "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."
Wildlife viewing: Children often enjoy animal sightings at dawn and dusk. "Fireflies are great at night. Frogs are singing in the evening. Tons of trees and shade," mentions Veronica S.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Choose carefully based on vehicle size and amenities needed. At Defeated Creek Marina Campground, "Most sites have good shade, water sites are great with grassy areas going straight to water. We always leave our boat or kayaks in water at sites," shares Mandy C.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional equipment for comfortable setup. "Our site was small and we prefer more space and seclusion since we travel with dogs. We stayed in site 94, which was on the water and nicely shaded," notes Alisha L.
Utility placement variations: Hook-up locations may require longer hoses or cords. "The site had plenty of space, level, and fairly easy to back into. The only downside is that the site did not have sewer hookup," reports Mike M.
Access road awareness: Interior campground roads may present navigation challenges. "Be wary of the speed bumps throughout the campground, they are closely spaced and rather abrupt, take them very slowly," advises Ray & Terri F.
