Center Hill Lake provides several dog friendly campgrounds near Silver Point, Tennessee where elevation ranges from 600-800 feet. The lake creates a moderately humid microclimate that affects camping conditions, with summer temperatures typically reaching 85-95°F during peak season and frequent afternoon thunderstorms from June through August.
What to Do
Hiking at Edgar Evins State Park: Access primitive camping areas with parking up top and a short hike down stairs into a wooded setting with approximately 7 sites. "We stayed 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. We could see and hear the lake from our campsite," notes Emily W. from Edgar Evins State Park Campground.
Kayaking from shoreline access: Many campsites at Center Hill Lake offer direct water access for launching kayaks without needing a boat ramp. "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," reports Shy-Anne W.
Fishing at Long Branch: Fish for trout directly from waterfront sites along the Caney Fork River. "We stayed right on the river for two nights and had a great time," says Michael L. from Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas.
Visiting nearby waterfalls: Drive approximately 30 minutes to Rock Island State Park to explore multiple waterfalls. "Make sure to visit the Twin Falls area but that is a 10-15 minute drive from the campground. The best hike is in the Twin Falls area," suggests Lee D.
What Campers Like
Privacy of wooded sites: At Belle and Beau Acres, campers enjoy secluded spots with natural screening. "You have your choice of sites, either in the heavily wooded timber, in the field, or by the creek. We stayed in the timber and it was glorious! Lots of downed wood to burn, several level sites, lighting bugs for entertainment at night," describes Lori H. from Belle and Beau Acres.
Waterfront camping options: Direct lake access from sites ranks highly among camper reviews. "Ragland Bottoms is such a fun place to camp! 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," explains Lori H. from Ragland Bottom.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses throughout the area. "The bathhouse was clean. Great location close to Cummins Falls, Burgess and others," notes Clinton N.
Boat ramps and water activities: Many campers appreciate the easy boat access at multiple campgrounds. "Campground has its own boat dock and plenty of parking around it," writes Chris Y. from COE Cordell Hull Lake Salt Lick Creek Campground.
What You Should Know
Limited cell coverage: Several campgrounds have minimal or no cellular service. "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 Chris Y.
Reserve lakefront sites early: Waterfront sites book quickly, especially during summer months. "I know that sites 1-15 are all lakefront sites with electricity and water, and they book up fast, so if you want one of those you need to plan to book well in advance," advises Lori H.
Pack all supplies: Limited shopping options mean you should arrive prepared. "There is only one gas station within 30-45 minutes that have ice and firewood. Make sure to bring everything you need," notes Chris Y.
Platform sites at some parks: Edgar Evins features unique wooden platforms for camping. "The sites are all elevated platforms due to the steep slope to the lake, which we had not encountered before, but are very widely spaced," explains Ray & Terri F.
Tips for Camping with Families
Choose campgrounds with playgrounds: Several parks offer dedicated play areas for children. "The kids ride bikes and fish. The campsite has a playground and sand volleyball court, boat ramp, and a hiking trail," recommends Holly G.
Look for swim areas: Dedicated swimming beaches provide safer water access for children than rocky shorelines. "The nearby swimming beach was great for the kids. Many short hiking options available," shares Christy E. from Rock Island State Park Campground.
Consider site location relative to bathrooms: Some campgrounds have widely spaced facilities. "Bathrooms are good in campground standards! The hiking trail is ok. Canoe the Caney is a few minute drive from the campground which is great if you like canoeing," notes Haley B. from Floating Mill - Center Hill Lake.
Book campsites with level terrain: Some areas feature significant slopes. "Pay attention to grades of sites when booking, you might need extra supports to level out," advises Richard F.
Tips from RVers
Check site length carefully: RV site lengths vary significantly throughout the region. "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," cautions Lee D.
Be aware of steep access roads: Some campgrounds have challenging approaches. "The drive in and out is rather steep but doable. The sites are great," notes Bill P.
Utility hookups vary widely: Check reservation systems for full hookup availability. "I didn't realize this when I reserved. They have great dump station but prefer to have that taken care of before we pull out," explains Betheny.
Pack extra leveling equipment: Many campsites throughout the region require additional leveling. "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," suggests Myke C.
