The area surrounding Lancaster, Tennessee provides several established campgrounds primarily situated around Center Hill Lake. Edgar Evins State Park Campground offers tent camping, RV sites, cabins, and glamping opportunities along the lake's northern shoreline. Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas feature more basic accommodations for both tent and RV campers seeking a less developed experience. Floating Mill Campground on Center Hill Lake provides water and electric hookups with boat-in access. These mixed-use campgrounds typically operate year-round or with seasonal closures between late fall and early spring.
Center Hill Lake dominates the camping landscape near Lancaster, with most campgrounds offering water access for swimming, fishing, and boating. Summer months bring warmer temperatures ideal for water recreation, while spring and fall provide more moderate conditions for hiking and outdoor activities. Many campsites require advance reservations, particularly during peak summer weekends when waterfront sites fill quickly. Most established campgrounds provide basic amenities like drinking water, fire rings, and toilets, though amenities vary significantly between locations. Road access to most campgrounds is generally good, though some areas may have steep terrain. As one visitor noted, "We could reach the edge of the lake from our campsite and launched our kayaks from there. The boats made it a little difficult to kayak the lake, but some kayakers towards the front of the campground at the day beach seemed to do okay."
Waterfront camping sites consistently receive the highest ratings from visitors, with campers particularly appreciating the scenic views of Center Hill Lake. Edgar Evins State Park features unique platform camping sites that elevate tents above the ground, which proves beneficial during Tennessee's frequent rain showers. A camper observed, "Where as I was at first turned off by the platform, there are a few pluses: It rains A LOT in Tennessee. When I used to camp up north, we got flooded out during heavy rains, as we were camping directly on the ground. The platform keeps you elevated." Wildlife sightings are common throughout the camping areas, with deer frequently wandering through campsites. While campgrounds closer to the lake may experience more boat traffic and noise, particularly near marinas, those seeking more solitude can find it in the more wooded camping areas or at primitive sites that offer fewer amenities but greater privacy.
"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."
$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."
$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."
$8 / 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."
$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."
$24 - $50 / night
"Snuggle deep in Ragland bottom Tennessee this nice Corps of Engineer campground is nestled. The campground is very well-kept. With plenty of room on the camping pads for all types and sizes of RVs."
"RV’s are at lake edge, there are several walk in tent sites near the lake too. If you have your watercraft along direct put in is possible but it’s rocky."
"Rock Island State Park is situated in the middle of Tennessee. The park itself is surrounded by beautiful forest and some pretty great and easy hiking trails. The falls themselves are a sight to see."
"Off I24 near Murfreesboro, Tn and a leisurely drive through the Tennessee countryside. Small towns, pickups and cows. Watch for stop signs, I almost missed one while looking at the scenery."
"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."
$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."
"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."
"Cute little town nearby, decent service when we were expecting none, and a cute little peninsula to camp on! The water is BEAUTIFUL, though you’ll hear fish splashing all night."
GuideDecent space between camps. Well priced. Stayed overnight on our way from Missouri to Atlanta. Good place to take a walk before hitting the road again. It's beautiful and wooded. Quiet and lots of morning birds. No gate or code to enter. Clean bathrooms & showers.
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
GuideCamp hosts were extremely friendly, bathrooms were very clean, site was perfect right on a sandy beach.
ScoutBathrooms and showers are clean. Laundry is cheap! Pool heated!
GuideI go across country to camp in the southwest twice a year and I always stop here coming and going. This is one of the best places I ever camped out due to the platforms or decks coming out of the mountain facing the lake. Bathrooms are always very clean and whole campground is always kept up. I'll be heading back to EISP sometime in May.
TravelerWe arrived just after sunset. We never saw a campground. Stayed overnight at the boat ramp in a large quiet lot next to the reservoir surrounded by trees. A few cars were in the lot in the morning but I didn’t hear a sound. There are no services here.
LegendLots of amenities, close to broadway, great for massive rigs. Definitely dated, seemed a tad bit run down, super loud right off highway. It’s mostly 3* cause way over priced for what it is. If in this area I’d definitely stay at elm hill for the same price. 10x nicer and same price.
RangerEverything is clean and perfect space between RV’s. Office people were friendly, they took us to our site (wish they all did instead of wandering around) it was easy in and easy out. Place was well marked off the highway and close to 40E.
GuideGood overnight with some issues. The staff is great. The location is good. The road noise isn't a problem. The issues: our site up front was hard to back into (in the dark) and it wasn't level. They offered us a bigger site towards the back for another $20 before we got there. We should have accepted! The main issue is that the bathroom/ showers need updating. On our cross country trip this was too often the case at KOAs. Now that so many RVs are essentially homes on wheels, the bathroom/ showers are no longer a priority. Those of us who intentionally travel light need them though. I would like to see KOA encourage their members to bring them up to standards. It is not fun taking a lukewarm shower that dribbles out and then getting dressed in a cold room.
Camping spots near Lancaster, Tennessee cluster around several reservoir lakes at elevations between 600-800 feet. The region has distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 85-90°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. The Tennessee Valley Authority manages many of these reservoir areas, with campgrounds situated on peninsulas and in coves where limestone formations create unique shoreline features.
Trout fishing along river sites: Long Branch Campground offers direct access to quality fishing. "Nice and quiet with a beautiful view of Caney Fork River. World class trout fishing," notes camper Marsha G. The sites include access to the river via steps.
Visit the falls in nearby parks: Several parks within driving distance showcase waterfalls. "Burgess Falls State Park is nearby with Windows Cliff Natural Area and Cummins Falls, Edgar Evins and Rock Island State Parks are further out but also worth a visit," mentions a reviewer at Floating Mill Campground.
Explore cave systems: The area features underground attractions as well. "Close to Cumberland Caverns where we enjoyed a concert in the cavern," reported one camper who stayed at Rock Island State Park Campground. The caverns offer guided tours year-round.
Platform camping at elevated sites: Edgar Evins State Park Campground features unique raised camping platforms. "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, highlighting a distinctive camping style not found at most parks.
Primitive camping areas for solitude: Some campers prefer less developed options with fewer amenities but more privacy. "We stayed here in November 2017; 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," shares Emily W. about her experience.
Wineries and breweries: The surrounding region offers adult beverage options. "The area is right on the Upper Cumberland Wine Trail so lots of impressive wineries nearby. There is also 4 breweries (a fifth opens the end of Oct 2018) in the area," notes one reviewer who camped at Old Mill Camp.
Limited cell service in many areas: Connectivity varies widely across campgrounds. "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 a camper about Salt Lick Creek Campground.
Boat traffic impacts swimming and kayaking: Water activities may be affected by motorboats. "There was a lot of boat traffic on the lake, even late into the night. I'm not sure if it is always like this or because there is a marina near by the campground. The boats made it a little difficult to kayak the lake," reports Shy-Anne W.
Varying campsite privacy levels: Site selection matters for those seeking seclusion. "The tent sites were really nice. I love how close you are to the water. It also includes two swim areas which is nice," shares Haley B. about Floating Mill, while other campers note some sites have neighbors in close proximity.
Bring water toys for lake activities: Defeated Creek Campground offers excellent water access for children. "We love to camp here it's so relaxing and restful. The campsites are spaced apart and are nice size. We always get sites on the water. The kids ride bikes and fish," reports Holly G.
Plan for ticks during hiking season: Take precautions when exploring trails. "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. Make sure you have plenty of repellent and/or dress properly for the woods," advises one experienced camper.
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: Several sites offer dedicated play areas. "Enjoyable camp ground. Sites are nice and large, easy to back into. There are steps down to the river," notes Gabe W. about Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas, while other campgrounds feature volleyball courts and designated swimming beaches.
Navigate steep access roads carefully: Some campgrounds have challenging approaches. "The drive in and out is rather steep but doable. The sites are great," notes Bill P. about Ragland Bottom, a common consideration for larger rigs.
Check site dimensions before booking: RV site sizes vary significantly across campgrounds. "While there are only a few spots that will accommodate a rig this large, it's worth the time to haunt the reservation system and snag one," advises an RVer with a 40-foot motorhome who stayed at Rock Island State Park.
Bring leveling equipment: Many sites require adjustment. "Camper pads are all paved but vary in length from 18 to 51 feet. The width of some can also accommodate two cars side by side. Not all are completely level," reports Lee D. at Rock Island State Park Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Lancaster, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, Lancaster, TN offers a wide range of camping options, with 145 campgrounds and RV parks near Lancaster, TN and 2 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Lancaster, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Lancaster, TN is Edgar Evins State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 57 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Lancaster, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Lancaster, TN.
What parks are near Lancaster, TN?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 25 parks near Lancaster, TN that allow camping, notably Center Hill Lake and Stillhouse Hollow Lake.
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