Cabins near Silver Point, Tennessee sit along the shores of Center Hill Lake, with the Cumberland Plateau creating a diverse landscape of limestone bluffs and hardwood forests. The area's elevation ranges from 600-1,000 feet above sea level, creating microclimates that affect camping conditions. Winter cabin stays typically see temperatures between 30-50°F, while summer cabin rentals experience temperatures around 85-95°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Paddling adventures: Center Hill Lake provides excellent kayaking opportunities from Edgar Evins State Park Campground, where campers can launch directly from the campground. "Very informative pontoon boat tour with a Park Ranger. Great lunch at the marina too!" notes Rosa B., highlighting water-based activities available beyond just self-guided paddling.
Waterfall hiking: Cabin stays near Silver Point provide access to numerous waterfall trails within a 30-minute drive. Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground features multiple waterfall hikes for various skill levels. "Hike to the bottom of the big waterfall (Fall Creek Falls), swim in the cascades next to the nature center, and stand on the edge of the bluff at Buzzard's Roost," recommends Myke C., outlining a perfect day itinerary.
Fishing: Launch directly from waterfront cabin sites at Defeated Creek Marina Campground for prime bass and crappie fishing. "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," explains Mandy C., describing the convenience for anglers staying in lakefront accommodations.
What campers like
Platform cabin experiences: Edgar Evins State Park Campground offers unique elevated cabins unlike standard accommodations. "I was very skeptical about the sites being pier-like decks. 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," shares Myke C., providing insight into this unconventional lodging style.
Waterfront cabins: Many visitors prefer cabin rentals with direct water access. "Ragland Bottom is a great lakefront campground. 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., highlighting a key feature many cabin renters seek.
Swimming areas: Rock Island State Park Campground provides natural swimming spots near cabin accommodations. "Great hikes and random places to jump into the water," notes Alicia F., pointing to the spontaneous swimming opportunities beyond designated beach areas that appeal to cabin guests.
What you should know
Booking windows: Reserve cabins 6-12 months in advance for summer weekends, especially at Defeated Creek Marina Campground. "We camp at the campground so much that we rent a boat slip here and leave our boat. They have the best prices!" mentions Holly G., indicating the popularity that drives the need for early reservations.
Cabin amenities: Bathroom facilities vary significantly between rustic and modern cabins. "Bathrooms and showers available close by," notes Gillian C. when discussing facilities, highlighting that even cabins without private bathrooms typically have access to clean shower houses within walking distance.
Seasonal considerations: Winter cabin stays require additional preparation for comfort. "We arrived after dark, and left fairly early the next morning so didn't spend a lot of time there. Went for a short walk before we left in the morning. Restrooms were clean and heated," reports John B., emphasizing the importance of heated facilities during colder months.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground offers family-friendly cabin options with nearby activities. "It has a great pool, and the natural area where it's located features tons of endemic species to the area!" shares Phoebe A., highlighting amenities that keep children entertained.
Educational opportunities: Schedule ranger-led programs for children staying in cabins. "Very informative pontoon boat tour with a Park Ranger," mentions Rosa B., pointing to educational activities that supplement a family cabin stay with learning opportunities.
Safety considerations: Cabins with toddlers require additional safety planning. "Parking sites are on wooden platforms which was fine for our Winnebago Revel, but a bit weird for my daughter who was sleeping in a tent," notes John B., highlighting platform considerations relevant to families with small children.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Rock Island State Park Campground cabin roads can be challenging for larger vehicles. "We visited this state park in our 40 foot motorhome. 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. The road to the park is winding but we had no issues," advises Cheryl C., providing context for those transitioning between RV and cabin stays.
Utilities and hookups: When comparing cabins to RV camping, electricity amperage varies significantly. "We were in site 22. It was right beside the shower house. It was a pull through site, but it was a little tight. To my surprise I opened the electric pedestal, and there was only 50 amp service. I'm set up for 30 amp, so I had to use an adapter," explains Gregory G., highlighting electrical considerations that also apply to cabin power systems.
Spacing between units: Cabin proximity varies widely between parks. "Site 28 was fairly level, and had water and 30a power. Fair warning, sites all seemed to be pretty small," warns Jon S., emphasizing the importance of understanding cabin spacing when booking accommodations.
