Center Hill Lake features limestone formations and deep water surrounding many of the dog friendly campgrounds near Smithville. The lake reaches depths over 150 feet in some areas, with heavily wooded shorelines and rocky terrain. Campgrounds in this region typically have both shaded and exposed sites, making site selection important during summer months when temperatures frequently exceed 90°F.
What to do
Kayaking access options: Edgar Evins State Park Campground offers multiple water entry points despite its elevated campsite platforms. "Pretty campground on water. Even though it's a mostly RV type place there are some good tent sites and it's a pretty remote quiet place," notes Eli L. The marina also offers pontoon boat tours with park rangers providing educational content about the lake ecosystem.
Hiking trail options: The Lost Spring Trail near Floating Mill - Center Hill Lake provides moderate hiking with lookout points. "There's a small hiking trail in the park also called the 'lost spring trail' not much of a spring to see, but a couple of lookout points. Must not be much traffic through the trail anymore, the lookouts were a little overgrown," reports Shy-Anne W. Access points to additional trails can be found throughout the camping area.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer direct fishing access from sites. According to Larry S., "Access lake is good all around park. Lots of shade trees. Sunset scenery around mountains is beautiful in evenings." Fish cleaning stations are available at some locations, but specific fishing regulations must be checked as they vary seasonally.
What campers like
Platform camping experiences: Rock Island State Park Campground offers unique camping setups. "Great state park with some nice trails and wonderful falls in the area. The site was great with everything out back. Peaceful site," writes Beth LeVar L. The campground's diverse offerings include both traditional sites and specialty accommodations.
Marina proximity: Horseshoe Bend Marina provides a store with supplies delivered to campsites. "The store at the marina is stocked with everything you need, ice, beer, snacks, and they will even deliver them to your site! However, the campground is off the beaten path, so stock up before you get there!" advises Lori H. This convenience allows campers to limit trips for supplies.
Lake view camping: Site selection matters significantly at waterfront campgrounds. "We were in the tent-only loop - a small group of 10 sites. It was quiet and had many trees for hammocks. This site offers level tent pads, a grill, fire ring, and picnic table," notes Christy E. Many sites have direct water access for recreation.
What you should know
Campsite logistics: Some campgrounds have multi-level designs requiring physical effort. At Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground, "Campsites were easily backed into, and although somewhat close to one another, they are staggered to afford some privacy. On site campground hosts were always available, without being in everyone's business!" reports Staci R. Accessibility varies significantly between campgrounds and even within the same facility.
Weather considerations: Summer storms can develop quickly in this region. "This is negative only because of bad weather alerts," points out Larry S. regarding connectivity challenges at some campgrounds. Most sites lack reliable cell service for weather alerts, making weather radio advisable.
Wildlife awareness: Beyond ticks and snakes mentioned in existing information, campers should watch for deer. "There are deer everywhere in park(fawns and even Bucks)," notes one reviewer. While generally not dangerous, deer can damage equipment if food is left accessible.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Multiple dedicated swimming areas exist beyond beaches. "It also includes two swim areas which is nice. Bathrooms are good in campground standards! The hiking trail is ok," shares Haley B. about Floating Mill. Most swimming areas lack lifeguards, so supervision is essential.
Campground activities: Defeated Creek Campground offers family recreation beyond water access. "Private beach access and some playground areas. Nice bathhouses but could use shivering updating. Very close stores and a boat rental and restaurant at the beginning of the park," mentions Chris W. Activity options vary seasonally with more programming during summer.
Site selection for space: Family-friendly sites require adequate room for equipment and activities. "We love to camp here it's so relaxing and restful. The campsites are spaced apart and are nice size. We always get sites on the water. The kids ride bikes and fish," advises Holly G. Reserve sites along wider sections of road for safer biking.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground offers mixed electrical options. "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. Bring appropriate adapters for electrical connections as many sites have only 50 amp service.
Road conditions: Roads within campgrounds can be challenging with larger rigs. "The driveways were a little tight, we especially had trouble on the way out," reports Mariah C. Road widths vary between and within campgrounds, with some having sharp turns requiring caution.
Leveling requirements: Many sites require leveling equipment due to terrain. "Not all are completely level," one review notes about Rock Island's paved pads. Bring adequate leveling blocks and stabilizers, especially for larger rigs on older campgrounds where settling has occurred.
Ranger
