Best Campgrounds near Lancaster, TN

Lancaster is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Tennessee camping has to offer. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Lancaster. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Best Camping Sites Near Lancaster, Tennessee (142)

    1. Edgar Evins State Park Campground

    56 Reviews
    214 Photos
    257 Saves
    Lancaster, Tennessee

    This recreation area is part of Center Hill Lake

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Cabins

    2. Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground

    144 Reviews
    633 Photos
    955 Saves
    Spencer, Tennessee

    Fall Creek Falls State Park is one of Tennessee’s largest and most visited state parks. The park encompasses more than 29,800 acres sprawled across the eastern top of the rugged Cumberland Plateau. Laced with cascades, gorges, waterfalls, streams and lush stands of virgin hardwood timber, the park beckons those who enjoy nature at her finest. Fall Creek Falls, at 256 feet, is one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern United States. Other waterfalls within the park include Piney Falls, Cane Creek Falls, and Cane Creek Cascades. The park is located in Bledsoe and Van Buren counties, 11 miles east of Spencer and 18 miles west of Pikeville. It may be entered from Highway 111 or Highway 30.

    In 1937, the federal government began purchasing the badly eroded land around Fall Creek Falls. The following year, the Works Progress Administration and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) began restoring the forest and constructing park facilities. A few years later in 1944, the National Park Service transferred ownership of the park to the State of Tennessee.

    Fall Creek Falls features 30 cabins, 222 campsites, and the 85-room Lodge Fall Creek Falls. Backcountry camping is also available with a permit.

    The park is home to a variety of activities suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities. Hikers can opt for short or long walks around the lake and to the base of Fall Creek Falls. There are two long-distance overnight trails for adventure-seeking visitors while the day-use trails are designed to accommodate recreational and educational activities for all ages. More than 56 miles of trails can be explored.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $8 - $32 / night

    3. Rock Island State Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    269 Photos
    379 Saves
    Rock Island, Tennessee

    This recreation area is part of Center Hill Lake

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    4. Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    136 Photos
    204 Saves
    Lebanon, Tennessee
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $25 - $30 / night

    5. Defeated Creek Campground

    28 Reviews
    85 Photos
    151 Saves
    Carthage, Tennessee

    Overview

    Defeated Creek Park Campground sits along the banks of Cordell Hull Lake on the Cumberland River System, just seven miles from Carthage, Tennessee. The lake was named after Cordell Hull, a politician that was born in the foothills of the Cumberland Mountains. Hull is best known for being the longest running secretary of state in American history, serving for 11 years. Click here for a virtual tour of the Cordell Hull Lake facilities.

    Recreation

    The 12,000-acre lake stretches 72 miles upstream and boasts 381 miles of shoreline, offering countless recreational activities for visitors. Anglers enjoy fishing for white bass, rockfish, largemouth bass, catfish, shad and crappie. Boating, sailing, water skiing and jet skiing are popular activities on the water, and boat ramps and a marina provide easy lake access. Miles of hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking trails surround the lake. The 6-mile Bearwaller Gap Trail has a trailhead within the campground. Other trails in the area include the Turkey Creek Nature Trail and Bear Wheels Trail.

    Natural Features

    Cordell Hull Lake is situated among rolling hills covered in a mix of shady maple, hickory, oak, beech and chestnut trees. Summer temperatures range from the 60s to the 90s. Wildlife is abundant around the lake. Whitetail deer, wild turkey, quail, squirrels, rabbits and a wide variety of waterfowl are commonly seen throughout the area.

    Nearby Attractions

    The historic town of Granville, Tennessee, is 25 miles from the campground. Visitors enjoy celebrating the town's Heritage Day annually in May. Events include the Uncle Jimmy Thompson Bluegrass Festival, antique car and tractor shows and Civil War living history presentations.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $25 - $100 / night

    6. Floating Mill - Center Hill Lake

    20 Reviews
    28 Photos
    22 Saves
    Silver Point, Tennessee

    Overview

    Floating Mill Park is located on the shores of the scenic Center Hill Lake on central Tennessee's Highland Rim. The lake stretches 64 miles up the Caney Fork River, where visitors come to enjoy boating, fishing and water sports. The 415 miles of forested shoreline provide excellent hiking, hunting and camping opportunities.

    Recreation

    Boating, waterskiing, canoeing and fishing are popular activities on the water. Anglers will find bream, walleye, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish and white bass. Below the dam, the Caney Fork River is one of the most productive trout fisheries in the state. Nine miles of hiking trails meander around the lake. The Lost Springs Trail loops for two miles above the campground and Hurricane Marina.

    Natural Features

    Center Hill Lake is surrounded by lush mixed hardwood forests in the hilly Highland Rim region. Whitetail deer, wild turkey, squirrels and rabbits roam the wooded hills around the lake. Floating Mill Park is surrounded by the lake on three sides, providing sweeping waterfront views.

    Nearby Attractions

    Edgar Evins State Park, about 25 minutes from Floating Mill, sits on the shores of the lake. An observation tower at the Visitor Center offers a spectacular view of Center Hill Lake and the surrounding hillsides. Burgess Falls State Park is a 35-minute drive from the campground. Here, the Falling Water River drops approximately 250 feet, creating numerous breathtaking waterfalls. Hiking trails and overlooks help visitors enjoy the scenery. The large Native Butterfly Garden is a popular attraction within the park.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $24 - $50 / night

    7. Old Mill Camp and General Store

    22 Reviews
    78 Photos
    132 Saves
    Bloomington Springs, Tennessee
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    8. COE Cordell Hull Lake Salt Lick Creek Campground

    13 Reviews
    19 Photos
    34 Saves
    Granville, Tennessee

    Overview

    Salt Lick Creek Campground is located on Cordell Hull Lake on the Cumberland River System, just 10 miles from Gainesboro, TN. The lake itself was named after one of America's outstanding statesmen and one of Tennessee's finest volunteers. Hull was born in a log cabin in the foothills of the Cumberland Mountains. Families and friends enjoy coming to the lake for boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, hunting, and relaxing in the outdoors.Click here for a virtual tour of the Cordell Hull Lake facilities.

    Recreation

    The 12,000-acre lake stretches 72 miles upstream and has 381 miles of shoreline, offering recreational activities for just about any type of visitor. Anglers enjoy fishing for white bass, rockfish, largemouth bass, catfish, shad and crappie. Boating, sailing, water skiing, and jet skiing are popular activities on the water. Many miles of hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking trails surround the lake. The 6-mile Bearwaller Gap Trail has a trailhead in nearby Defeated Creek Park. Other trails in the area include the Turkey Creek Nature Trail and Bear Wheels Trail.

    Natural Features

    Cordell Hull Lake is situated among rolling hills wooded with a mixture of shady maple, hickory, oak, beech and chestnut trees. Summer temperatures range from the 60s to the 90s. Wildlife is abundant around the lake. Whitetail deer, wild turkeys, quail, squirrels, rabbits, and a wide variety of waterfowl are commonly seen throughout the area.

    Nearby Attractions

    The historic town of Granville, TN is a 45-minute drive from the campground. Visitors enjoy celebrating the town's Heritage Day in May. Events include the Uncle Jimmy Thompson Bluegrass Festival, antique car and tractor shows, and Confederate Civil War living history presentations.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $20 - $50 / night

    9. Bledsoe Creek State Park Campground

    33 Reviews
    74 Photos
    192 Saves
    Castalian Springs, Tennessee

    This recreation area is part of Old Hickory Lake

    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Market

    10. Ragland Bottom

    12 Reviews
    69 Photos
    87 Saves
    Smithville, Tennessee

    Overview

    Ragland Bottom Campground is located on the shores of the scenic Center Hill Lake on central Tennessee's Highland Rim. The lake stretches 64 miles up the Caney Fork River, where visitors come to enjoy boating, fishing and water sports. The 415 miles of forested shoreline provide excellent hiking, hunting and camping opportunities.

    Recreation

    Boating, waterskiing, canoeing and fishing are popular activities on the water. Anglers will find bream, walleye, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish and white bass. Below the dam, the Caney Fork River is one of the most productive trout fisheries in the state. Nine miles of hiking trails meander around the lake. The Red Post Trail is a short, but steep, two-mile trail that loops above the campground. Hikers who brave the moderately difficult climb are rewarded with beautiful overlooks of the lake and nearby Sligo Bridge and Marina.

    Natural Features

    Center Hill Lake is surrounded by lush mixed hardwood forests in the hilly Highland Rim region. Beautiful dogwoods bloom in the campground in springtime. Whitetail deer, wild turkey, squirrels and rabbits roam the wooded hills around the lake.

    Nearby Attractions

    Burgess Falls State Park is a 25-minute drive from the campground. Here, the Falling Water River drops approximately 250 feet, creating numerous breathtaking waterfalls. Hiking trails and overlooks help visitors enjoy the scenery. The large Native Butterfly Garden is a popular attraction within the park.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $16 - $50 / night

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Recent Reviews near Lancaster, TN

983 Reviews of 142 Lancaster Campgrounds



Guide to Lancaster

Camping near Lancaster, Tennessee, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to different needs and preferences.

What to do:

  • Hiking and exploring nature: Many campgrounds, like Rock Island State Park Campground, have well-marked trails. One visitor mentioned, "The hikes are amazing!!!" This is a great way to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and wildlife in the area.
  • Water activities: At Floating Mill - Center Hill Lake, you can enjoy fishing, swimming, or just relaxing by the water. A camper shared, "It’s a beautiful place to stay for water sports, fishing, or just relaxing by the lake."
  • Family-friendly fun: Campgrounds like Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground offer playgrounds and bike-friendly roads. One family noted, "There are so many trails, playgrounds, and bike/walk friendly roads."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. A visitor at Bledsoe Creek State Park Campground said, "The bathhouse was quite adequate, clean and hot showers."
  • Spacious sites: Many campgrounds provide roomy spots for tents and RVs. A reviewer at Edgar Evins State Park Campground mentioned, "All the spots were clean and spacious."
  • Friendly staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. One camper at Defeated Creek Campground noted, "The staff was super friendly and helpful."

What you should know:

  • Site selection matters: Some sites can be tricky to access. A camper at Rock Island State Park Campground advised, "I definitely recommend either scouting out a site before booking or researching well which site would be a good fit."
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have laundry facilities or markets nearby. A visitor at Old Mill Camp and General Store mentioned, "Only drawback was lack of laundry facility."
  • Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds have specific open seasons. For example, Floating Mill - Center Hill Lake is open from May 2 to September 24.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose kid-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities. A family at Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground enjoyed the "playgrounds for children" and noted the "view of the lake from most sites."
  • Plan for meals: Bring easy-to-cook meals or snacks. One camper at Defeated Creek Campground mentioned, "The sites are not stacked on top of each other," making it easier to enjoy family meals outdoors.
  • Engage in nature activities: Encourage kids to explore nature. A visitor at Edgar Evins State Park Campground noted, "Kayaking is great!" which can be a fun family activity.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site dimensions: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Bledsoe Creek State Park Campground mentioned, "This is not a big rig friendly park," so it's essential to verify before booking.
  • Leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven sites. A reviewer at Standing Stone State Park Campground said, "The RV sites all have slope and not great if you have a large RV."
  • Bring extra supplies: Some campgrounds may have limited resources. A visitor at Nashville East-Lebanon KOA noted, "It’s nice but pricey for low water pressure and okay camping," suggesting that being prepared can help enhance your experience.

Camping around Lancaster, TN, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Lancaster, TN?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Lancaster, TN offers a wide range of camping options, with 142 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 56 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 Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.