Woodbury, Tennessee sits at approximately 700 feet elevation in the eastern Highland Rim region, characterized by rolling hills and limestone formations. Summer temperatures average in the high 80s with moderate humidity. Most campgrounds in this area offer year-round camping with peak seasons from April through October, when water activities and hiking trails are most accessible.
What to do
Hike to waterfalls: Rock Island State Park Campground features multiple waterfall hikes within a short distance of camping areas. "Great hikes and random places to jump into the water," notes Alicia F., while another visitor mentions "The hiking trails are well maintained so hiking to the three waterfall's inside the park is a mild hike."
Historical exploration: Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park offers educational opportunities with Native American history. "This park is known for its archeology, but don't miss the beautiful waterfalls," writes Nancy R. The park includes interpretive displays explaining why "Native Americans considered this area spiritually significant."
Fishing spots: Center Hill Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities from multiple access points. "We could see and hear the lake from our campsite," reports Emily W. about her primitive camping experience at Edgar Evins State Park Campground. Floating Mill and Ragland Bottom also offer direct water access for anglers.
Bird watching: Cedar forests and mixed woodlands support diverse bird populations. "Sitting on your 'deck' overlooking the water would be plenty for many people just enjoying the moment," explains Shelly S. about the quiet observation opportunities at Floating Mill.
What campers like
Platform sites: The unique construction at Edgar Evins State Park creates distinctive camping experiences. "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," shares Betheny.
Wooded campsites: Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground offers densely wooded sites that provide natural privacy. "The spots are decently spaced apart with many trees," notes Laura C., while another camper mentioned "We had a nice clean site...It had a fire pit, grill and picnic table."
Clean facilities: Consistently maintained bathhouses receive positive mentions. At Rock Island State Park, a camper observed "Shower and toilets were clean and well kept," while another noted "The bathrooms were clean and in great shape."
Water access: Ragland Bottom features excellent lake access directly from camping areas. "The lakefront sites all have water access right from the site, so you can launch a kayak, or throw out a line, or just go for a swim right from your site," explains Nate H.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Edgar Evins State Park, platform sites vary significantly in quality and space. "Some of the sites just don't have a lot of room, especially around the fire pit and bbq. But there are a couple gem spots if you scout before you book," advises Myke C.
Weather considerations: Flash flooding can occur in low-lying areas during heavy rains. At Floating Mill Campground, "The sites are gravel pads that flood when it rains," notes one visitor.
Reservation timing: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially during summer months. For Ragland Bottom, one camper advises "The campground is right on Center Hill lake, and the lake is really nice and clean! We stayed on site 10, and had the perfect lake front spot! I know that sites 1-15 are all lakefront sites with electricity and water, and they book up fast."
Highway noise: Manchester KOA offers convenient access but with some traffic sound. "The main downfall is that the campground is close to the interstate (noise). But, it is a close distance to any store/food if you need to make a run," reports Kayla L.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Rock Island State Park offers multiple water access points. "The nearby swimming beach was great for the kids. Many short hiking options available," explains Christy E. about the tent-only loop area.
Playground facilities: Fall Creek Falls State Park provides extensive recreation options beyond hiking. "There's tons to do from hiking, to swimming, waterfall gazing, rock climbing, ziplining, and much more. The park itself has a scenic loop drive of the gorge, multiple waterfalls to visit, miles on end of hiking trails," shares a visitor.
Educational opportunities: Floating Mill - Center Hill Lake offers wildlife viewing that appeals to children. "We had deer in our site everyday," notes one camper, while others mention spotting blue herons and various waterfowl along the shore.
Seasonal events: Several campgrounds host special weekend activities during holiday periods. At Cedars of Lebanon, one camper specifically mentioned "their halloween weekend is a great time of fun for the kids!"
Tips for RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. At Fall Creek Falls, campers should "Pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out."
Navigating platform sites: Edgar Evins State Park presents unique challenges for RVs with its platform design. "The sites are tiered and you will get a workout if your walking from one level to the next," notes one reviewer, while another mentions "Be wary of the speed bumps throughout the campground, they are closely spaced and rather abrupt, take them very slowly."
Pull-through options: Campsites designed for easier RV access can be found at several locations. At Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park, "We had nice paved pad. The picnic table was located behind the camper. There is a cool bridge that is a single lane that you cross on to go over to the campground."
Ranger
