Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas

Star3.86
86 reviews
158 Resource Lane
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

551 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Open January 1, 2025...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens US Army Corps of Engineers site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas
$8.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates by season dates indicate a flat rate of $8 for both Standard Nonelectric sites and Boat-In sites. Additional fees may apply for...
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Standard Site Fee$8.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
931-858-3125centerhilllake@usace.army.mil
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What Campers Say

3.86

Mixed Reviews

Based on 86 reviews

56 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewslake

"User reviews for the primitive sites at Center Hill Lake highlight the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere but also emphasize the remoteness and lack of amenities. Some reviews praise the lakefront views and wildlife, while others express frustration with limited access and uncleaned sites."

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Campground Map

158 Resource Lane

Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas

158 Resource Lane

Driving directionsDirections to primitive camp sites start at the nearest USACE facility. The GPS coordinate "Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas" is for Center Hill Dam. 36°05'52.3"N 85°49'32.4"W or 36.097869, -85.825653.
Most designated tent sites are accessible only by boat; while a few can be reached by road. Parking and/or launching locations on the lake may charge a use fee for that area.
Nearby supplies
Groceries and essentials may need to be obtained at nearby towns like Lancaster. Exact supply locations are not detailed.

Best Time to Camp at Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas

Center Hill Lake transforms with the seasons, each bringing its own charm to your camping adventure. Summer days invite endless water activities under predominantly clear skies, while autumn paints the surrounding hardwoods in brilliant golds and crimsons. Winter brings a stark beauty to the landscape, with crisp, cold temperatures that keep the crowds at bay and reward hardy campers with serene solitude. Spring awakens the shoreline with fresh growth and comfortable temperatures, though occasional rain showers remind visitors to pack accordingly. The region's variable weather patterns mean every trip offers something new—from mirror-calm mornings perfect for fishing to dramatic storm systems rolling across the expansive lake.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer is popular for boating, fishing, and clear skies per seasonal notes and reviews.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Autumn foliage and pleasant weather enhance lakeside camping and scenic views.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Spring offers milder weather and activity options, though not emphasized as peak season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.5 / 5

Winter camping is possible but less common; lack of facilities and cold reduce appeal.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: January 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open January 1, 2025, through December 31, 2025.
  • Current Alerts: No active alerts are reported.

About Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas

Escape to the untouched shores of Center Hill Lake, where 415 miles of pristine waterfront beckon adventurous souls seeking authentic wilderness experiences. These primitive camping havens, primarily reached by boat, strip away modern distractions—no electrical hookups, running water, or facilities—leaving just you, your gear, and the raw beauty of Tennessee's hidden gem. Here, camping returns to its roots: peaceful nights under star-studded skies, mornings greeted by gentle lapping waves, and the freedom to claim your own secluded piece of paradise along the expansive shoreline.
The campground is exclusively primitive, catering to tent campers who desire a rustic, nature-immersive experience. Most sites are boat-accessible, with a few reachable by road.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Typical check-in times are not specified.
Check-out
Typical check-out times are not specified.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

The campground provides a rich variety of outdoor activities, including camping, fishing, boating, and hiking. Fishing tournaments are a particular highlight at Center Hill Lake.
HikingHiking opportunities are available within the natural surroundings of the primitive sites and nearby state parks.
FishingFishing is a key attraction, with Center Hill Lake hosting many fishing tournaments. The lake is steps away from most campsites.
BoatingBoating is a major activity here, with many campsites accessible only by boat. Nearby boat ramps facilitate access.
Wildlife viewingThe area is surrounded by mature hardwood trees and diverse wildlife. Some reviews highlight encounters with hummingbirds, turkeys, and other animals.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWater levels at Center Hill Lake may change suddenly without warning. Campers do so at their own risk.
Active AlertsNo active alerts are reported.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas

Reviews

3.9
86 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for the primitive sites at Center Hill Lake highlight the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere but also emphasize the remoteness and lack of amenities. Some reviews praise the lakefront views and wildlife, while others express frustration with limited access and uncleaned sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 86 reviews

What Campers Love

Many users appreciated the 'amazing lakefront views' and the opportunity to engage in fishing, boating, and stargazing. One camper described the experience as 'an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.'
Based on 86 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints included 'steep and washed-out roads' leading to some sites, lack of maintenance, and occasional disturbances from visitors using nearby boat ramps. Some reviewers also noted issues...
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Based on 86 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend bringing all necessary supplies, including water and firewood, and suggest being prepared for the lack of cell service. One camper advised, 'Post a copy of your confirmation letter at...
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Based on 86 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is a popular season due to favorable weather and lake activities such as fishing and boating. Winter camping is less common but possible for those prepared for cold conditions. Spring and fall...
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Based on 86 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'What an amazing location! Pedigo Point has got to be one of the best primitive sites on the lake.' - 'The view was wonderful. The wildlife was very active.' - 'The site was pretty trashed out when...
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Based on 86 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

- Pedigo Point (Site 14): Praised for its location, views, and privacy. - White County Access (Site 20): Criticized for steep roads and disturbances from boat ramp users. - Cane Hollow (Site 3C):...
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Based on 86 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews addressed accessibility for disabled visitors, which aligns with the largely undeveloped and primitive nature of the campground.
Based on 86 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome, and several reviewers highlighted the pet-friendly atmosphere, noting that management and other campers were accommodating of dogs.
Based on 86 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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