The Hilham area of Tennessee sits at approximately 1,000 feet elevation in the Upper Cumberland region, offering camping experiences along reservoir shorelines and forested hillsides. Seasonal temperature variations can be significant, with summer highs regularly reaching the 90s while spring and fall provide milder conditions in the 60-70°F range. Most campgrounds near Hilham operate on varied seasonal schedules, with limited winter availability at select locations.
What to do
Trout fishing at Dale Hollow Damsite: The campground's proximity to the dam creates excellent fishing conditions. "Campground parallels the Obey River. Plenty of fish opportunities from boat, kayak, wading and shoreline," notes a Dale Hollow Damsite visitor, with another mentioning the adjacent "fish hatchery so you should be able to catch rainbow trout."
Paddling Dale Hollow Lake: The lake's numerous coves and inlets provide excellent kayaking opportunities. "The lake has dozens of little 'fingers' and 'tendrils,' making for great little coves to paddle, explore, or just find some peace and quiet," reports a camper at Lillydale Campground, which offers direct water access.
Hiking at Eagle Point: Several trails wind through the hills surrounding the reservoirs. "The trail to Eagle Point was well used and a good walk to an awesome view," states a visitor to Dale Hollow Lake State Resort Park, while another notes there are "plenty of trails available" throughout the region.
What campers like
Platform camping experience: Edgar Evins offers a unique camping setup unlike others in the region. "My first time to Edgar and I LIKE IT! First campground I've ever been to that you park on a deck," explains a camper at Edgar Evins State Park Campground. "The sites are tiered and you will get a workout if your walking from one level to the next."
Clean, maintained facilities: The Corps of Engineers maintains high standards at their campgrounds. "The bathhouse was clean with amazing water pressure," reports a camper from COE Cordell Hull Lake Salt Lick Creek Campground, with another adding, "This COE campground is great. We were in site 68 and had plenty of room."
Island camping at Lillydale: For a different experience, tent campers can stay on an island. "We stayed on the island (walk in spot) and it was quiet and had beautiful views right on the water. There are also toilets and water available on the island if needed," shares a visitor to Lillydale Campground.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service is extremely limited or non-existent at many camping sites near Hilham, Tennessee. "There is absolutely no cell coverage for any carrier at the campground and about a 30 minute drive in any direction," warns a Salt Lick Creek camper, while another notes, "We had zero cell phone coverage (our carrier is T-Mobile)."
Remote location preparation: The area's isolation requires advance planning. "There are no stores around as well. There is only one gas station within 30-45 minutes that have ice and firewood. Make sure to bring everything you need," advises a Salt Lick Creek visitor.
Water level changes: Reservoir levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline campsites. "We settled in and while it was pretty crowded at the campsite, it was not loud like some campgrounds I have stayed at along the way," shares a Standing Stone State Park Campground visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Primitive island camping with kids: Lillydale's island camping area provides a unique experience. "The tent camp sites on the island were aptly distanced from one another. The other campers seemed to have an unspoken sense of support. Multiple people offered ice, and even campground host offered to air up air mattresses," reports a Lillydale camper.
Family-friendly activities: Many campgrounds offer recreation beyond water activities. "The playground was great. The creek under the dam was awesome for wading, just look out for snakes," notes a Standing Stone camper, while another mentions the park has "a playground, volleyball courts, short hikes, and soccer fields."
Swimming options: Designated swimming areas provide safer alternatives to open water. "The immaculate beach/swimming area which our dogs loved. Only downside was the non-existent WIFI and no satellite," shares a camper from Salt Lick Creek, noting the clean facilities.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require extra equipment for RVs. "The site was very unlevel as well. It was list to have a 'slight' grade and I'd beg to differ on that. We were backed up to overhang the site and maxed out our tongue jack and was barely able to get level," warns an RV camper at Standing Stone.
Access restrictions: Larger rigs face limitations at some campgrounds. "The south entrance is a single lane bridge with a sharp turn so longer rigs need to come in on the north end," advises a Standing Stone visitor, critical information for RVers with longer vehicles.
Site selection for shade: Summer temperatures make shade important for comfortable camping. "We had site (7) was spacious (we had a teardrop, shower/changing tent, ground tent, and rooftop tent). Did not have any issues with electric the whole time we were there," shares a Standing Stone camper describing the amenities.
