Best Campgrounds near Smithville, TN
Center Hill Lake provides the foundation for camping near Smithville, Tennessee, where multiple recreation areas and state parks offer various accommodation types. Established campgrounds like Ragland Bottom and Floating Mill operate under U.S. Army Corps of Engineers management, providing waterfront sites with amenities. Edgar Evins State Park and Rock Island State Park support tent camping, RV hookups, and cabin rentals within 20 miles of Smithville. Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas provide more basic sites for campers seeking fewer amenities but maintaining lake access.
Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally from spring through fall, though some remain open year-round. "This campground is a hidden gem. The hosts are very helpful and friendly and the campground is well kept," noted one visitor about Ragland Bottom. Reservations through recreation.gov are strongly recommended, especially for lakefront sites which typically book months in advance. Roads to campgrounds can involve steep grades in some areas, particularly at Floating Mill where some tent sites require navigating stairs from parking areas to campsites. Cell service varies throughout the region, with better coverage near developed recreation areas and spotty service in more remote sections of the lake.
Waterfront access represents the primary draw for campers in the Smithville area, with sites directly on Center Hill Lake commanding premium rates and earliest reservations. Several campgrounds feature boat ramps and swimming areas, allowing for multi-day water recreation. While the lake provides excellent fishing and boating opportunities, campers report varying experiences with site privacy. "The sites are also extremely close together," noted one camper about Floating Mill, while others praised the same campground for its "beautiful views" and "great for first-time campers." Bathhouse facilities receive mixed reviews across campgrounds, with cleanliness varying by location and season. Nearby attractions include Burgess Falls State Park and Window Cliffs Natural Area, providing hiking opportunities when not enjoying the lake.
