Dispersed camping around Stillhouse Hollow Lake provides access to Tennessee's highland rim waterways where elevations range between 400-600 feet. The region sits within the Cumberland River watershed, creating numerous inlets and peninsulas ideal for waterfront camping. Camping locations vary from free primitive sites along the Cumberland River to developed campgrounds on several regional lakes with varying seasonal access patterns.
What to do
Hiking trails nearby: At Edgar Evins State Park Campground, campers can access 6 marked trails of moderate to strenuous difficulty. "The Bearwaller Gap Trail is right near the campground, and the trailhead was super close to our site. It's a 6 mile trail (one way), and it's a pretty strenuous hike," notes one visitor who stayed at Defeated Creek Campground.
Freshwater swimming spots: The area offers multiple swimming areas with varying amenities. A visitor to Floating Mill - Center Hill Lake reported, "The tent sites were really nice. I love how close you are to the water. It also includes two swim areas which is nice." Another camper added, "There's a swimming area for campers separate from the day use area."
Fishing options: Rainbow trout fishing is accessible near Dale Hollow Damsite where a fish hatchery operates. According to one visitor, "Campground parallels the Obey River. Plenty of fish opportunities from boat, kayak, wading and shoreline." Many lakeside campgrounds offer direct water access for fishing directly from campsites.
Boat rentals: Marinas near several campgrounds offer boat rental services. A camper at Defeated Creek Marina Campground shared, "We camp at the campground so much that we rent a boat slip here and leave our boat. They have the best prices!" Some campgrounds feature their own docks for private boats.
What campers like
Platform camping experiences: Edgar Evins State Park Campground offers a unique camping style with elevated wooden platforms. Initially skeptical visitors often change their minds: "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."
Spacious, private sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites providing privacy. At Old Mill Camp and General Store, "This property is clean, quiet, family and pet friendly. Each tent and RV stall has its own picnic table and fire pit, spacing out each stall so it has fair privacy."
Technology disconnection: Several campgrounds offer a genuine off-grid experience due to limited connectivity. One visitor to Holleman's Bend Camping Area noted, "No Service (showed me how addicted i am). Other than that as described." Another camper valued the early morning experience: "I woke up early enough to see the sunrise and the fog coming off the river. Simply magical."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain well-kept facilities. A visitor to Standing Stone State Park Campground reported, "Bathrooms were cleaned and stocked regularly. Staff was super friendly. We rented kayaks to take out on the lake. The rental price was reasonable and the lake was spectacular."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service is absent or unreliable at many campgrounds. A visitor to Salt Lick Creek Campground explained, "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. There is only one gas station within 30-45 minutes that have ice and firewood."
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult terrain that makes navigation challenging. A visitor to Floating Mill warned, "WARNING - If you have an RV the turn around to get out is VERY steep. We watched an RV get very scraped up." Another noted, "Most sites require climbing 3–5 flights of stairs."
Supply preparation: Limited services near campgrounds require advanced planning. "Make sure to bring everything you need," advises a Salt Lick Creek camper. Another visitor to Old Mill Camp recommended, "If you want to go on the hike which I highly encourage it. Pro tip if you want to go on the hike go early almost right when the park opens."
Free camping limits: At Holleman's Bend Camping Area, there are time restrictions: "Someone came and got my name and plate to make sure I followed the 14 day rule but was super nice."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access evaluation: Families should assess swimming areas before planning water activities. A visitor to Dale Hollow Damsite noted, "It has a park and volleyball area for kids to play at... there is a perfect swimming area by the dam." Another camper at Standing Stone added, "The creek under the dam was awesome for wading, just look out for snakes."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy the abundant wildlife. "There are deer everywhere in park(fawns and even Bucks)," reported one visitor to Defeated Creek. Another noted, "Wildlife viewing, fishing, and water activities are frequently cited as primary attractions."
Playground availability: Some campgrounds offer playground equipment for children. A visitor to Standing Stone State Park Campground reported, "We absolutely LOVE it here. Beautiful sites and lots of good exploring and kid activities." The park also features "a playground, volleyball courts, short hikes, and soccer fields."
Insect preparation: The wooded terrain requires preparation for insects, especially for hiking. "If you plan to go hiking on the trails that are surrounding the area please know that there heavily wooded areas with ticks, we found out the hard way. Make sure you have plenty of repellent and/or dress properly for the woods."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven sites requiring adjustment. A visitor to Standing Stone State Park Campground explained, "The site was very unlevel as well. It was list to have a 'slight' grade and I'd beg to differ on that. We were backed up to overhang the site and maxed out our tongue jack and was barely able to get level."
Campground navigation: Some campgrounds have specific entrance requirements. A reviewer noted, "The south entrance is a single lane bridge with a sharp turn so longer rigs need to come in on the north end."
Limited hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. A visitor to Salt Lick Creek Campground commented, "We were in site 68 and had plenty of room. The site had plenty of space, level, and fairly easy to back into. The only downside is that the site did not have sewer hookup."
Speed bump caution: RVers should drive cautiously through campgrounds with traffic control features. "Be wary of the speed bumps throughout the campground, they are closely spaced and rather abrupt, take them very slowly."
