Center Hill Lake provides the centerpiece for several dog friendly campgrounds near Sparta, Tennessee. Located on the Cumberland Plateau at elevations between 600-1,200 feet, this area experiences mild winters and warm summers with average July temperatures around 80°F. The region's limestone geology creates unique water features including sinkholes, underwater caves, and multiple waterfalls that draw campers throughout the year.
What to do
Hiking with water features: The Virgin Falls State Natural Area offers challenging terrain with abundant water access. "Virgin Falls is an amazing primative camping area with trail access to multiple watersheds and jade pools where dogs can cool off during hikes," notes Elisa T., who recommends bringing a water filter as "facilities are limited at more primitive sites."
Waterfall exploration: At Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground, hikers can access multiple cascades. "Make sure you do three things while you're there: 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., highlighting spots many visitors miss.
Kayaking from camp: Multiple sites around Center Hill Lake offer direct water access. "Many sites have their own water access. The tent only sites are at the back of the campground and are along the water. You have to take steps down from the parking lot to get to your campsite," explains Clinton N. about Floating Mill Campground, noting its "swimming area for campers separate from the day use area."
What campers like
Platform camping sites: Edgar Evins State Park Campground offers a unique camping setup. "We love the platform sites that are so spacious and private. Easy access to dump station and bath houses. Almost all sites have view of water," explains Betheny, who noted the experience was "very peaceful and quiet."
Easy lake access: Waterfront sites are highly valued at Ragland Bottom. "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. Mostly all the non-waterfront sites have a view of the lake," according to Nate H., who adds "there's nice hammock trees in the campground, and at most sites."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention bathhouse quality. "The bathhouse was clean. Great location close to Cummins Falls, Burgess and others," notes Clinton N. about Floating Mill, while another reviewer praised Edgar Evins for its "very clean, well kept showerhouse and there is a laundry near the primitive parking area."
What you should know
Site privacy varies: Camp loops differ significantly in spacing and noise levels. At Rock Island State Park Campground, "three distinctly different areas: tent only section, cabin area, and the main campground" provide different experiences, according to Lee D., who notes that "there are many trees to provide separation and privacy, and sites are spaced a decent amount of space apart."
Terrain challenges: Many campgrounds feature significant elevation changes. "If your pulling/parking an RV, Challenging! First campground I've ever been to that you park on a deck," notes one camper about Edgar Evins, while another mentioned that "the sites are tiered and you will get a workout if your walking from one level to the next."
Weather considerations: Seasonal conditions affect camping comfort. "During summer months, early morning or evening walks are recommended to prevent paw pad burns on hot surfaces," advises one experienced camper, while another notes Fall Creek Falls becomes extremely busy during summer months when "the olympic pool with diving boards and a snack shack for the kiddos" attracts families.
Tips for camping with families
Multi-activity options: Cumberland Mountain State Park Campground offers diverse recreation. "This is a larger state park that includes a restaurant, golf course, pool, etc. but also some nice trails to enjoy the natural beauty of the area," notes Lynn G., adding they have "kayak and boat rentals. Something for everyone."
Kid-friendly beaches: Several lake access points include designated swim areas. "The nearby swimming beach was great for the kids. Many short hiking options available," reports Christy E. about Rock Island, while a Fall Creek Falls visitor mentions "awesome swimming holes, and even an olympic pool with diving boards and a snack shack for the kiddos."
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing adds to family experiences. "Daily deer sightings, a lovely fishing lake and bike trails" enhance the Cumberland Mountain experience according to Sandra V., who recommends this park especially for "novice campers due to the fact that the facilities are very nice."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Many campgrounds have limited level sites for larger rigs. "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," advises Cheryl C. about Rock Island State Park, noting that "the road to the park is winding but we had no issues."
Hookup availability: Spacious Skies Belle Ridge offers modern amenities for RVers. "Excellent full hookup campground, convenient to the interstate. Tons of hiking and outdoors. Mostly gravel sites but all paved roads," notes Clint T., while others mentioned "the sites were level, large, gravel with picnic tables and fire rings, spaced far enough apart you didn't feel crowded at all."
Road conditions: Access roads can be challenging for larger vehicles. "Be wary of the speed bumps throughout the campground, they are closely spaced and rather abrupt, take them very slowly," advises Ray & Terri F. about Edgar Evins State Park, while another camper notes "the driveways were a little tight, we especially had trouble on the way out" at Floating Mill.
