Ragland Bottom

Star4.68
768 reviews
1410 Ragland Bottom Rd, Sparta, TN 38583, USA
Family FriendlySummer Destination

Quick Facts

712 ft

Price

$16 - $32/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

56 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens 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
Ragland Bottom
$16.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $16 for primitive non-electric tent sites to $32 for RV sites with electric hookups. Group picnic areas cost $50 per day.
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$32.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$16.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
931-761-3616
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What Campers Say

4.68

Top-Rated

Based on 768 reviews

303 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanspaciouslake

"Ragland Bottom Campground is highly regarded for its scenic lake views, clean facilities, and friendly staff. While most campers enjoy the peaceful environment, some have noted maintenance issues and challenges with the terrain."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

1410 Ragland Bottom Rd, Sparta, TN 38583, USA

Ragland Bottom

1410 Ragland Bottom Rd, Sparta, TN 38583, USA

Driving directionsFrom Smithville, Tennessee, take US-70 east for 8 miles. Turn left on Ragland Bottom Road and follow signs to the campground, located one mile from Sligo Bridge.
The campground is easily accessible by paved roads. However, some reviews highlight issues with signage, such as 'signage leaves much to be desired' and 'the roads are all paved and in good condition but signage is lacking.' Sharp turns are noted, especially for larger RVs.
Nearby places
Smithville, TN (8 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Cookeville, TN (approximately 25 minutes)
Rock Island State Park (approximately 20 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Smithville, TN, about 8 miles away. Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in the nearest town.

Best Time to Camp at Ragland Bottom

Experience the gentle rhythms of Tennessee's seasons at Ragland Bottom, where winter brings crisp, refreshing days with temperatures climbing to the upper 40s°F and peaceful nights dipping to around 35°F. As spring awakens the landscape and summer takes hold, the warming waters of Center Hill Lake transform into an aquatic playground perfect for swimming, casting a line for trophy bass, or simply floating away the afternoon under azure skies.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Peak season for lake activities and swimming; very popular but can be crowded.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5

Quieter season ideal for foliage and scenic enjoyment; reviewers recommend fall for calm stays.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Pleasant weather, blooming dogwoods and good camping conditions in spring.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed for reservations Nov–Apr; winter stays are limited.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: April 10–November 2. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: The campground is open for reservations from April 10 to November 2 each year.

About Ragland Bottom

Nestled along the pristine shores of Center Hill Lake, Ragland Bottom Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of natural beauty and modern comfort. This beloved lakefront retreat has earned a stellar reputation among campers for its meticulously maintained facilities and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're pulling in with a fully-equipped RV, pitching a tent under the stars, or gathering with friends at spacious group picnic areas, you'll discover why visitors consistently praise the spotless grounds and the genuine hospitality of the campground hosts who make every stay memorable.
Ragland Bottom Campground accommodates various camping styles, including primitive, RV, and tent camping. The campground features 40 sites with water and electric hookups, 16 primitive tent sites, and a group picnic area.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in begins at 2:30 PM.
Check-out
Campers must check out by 2:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights at a time within a 30-day rolling period.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Ragland Bottom Campground offers a wide range of activities to cater to outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy boating, waterskiing, canoeing, and fishing on Center Hill Lake. The campground features nine miles of hiking trails, including the Red Post Trail, which offers picturesque lake views. The day-use area includes a swimming beach, and additional amenities such as a volleyball court and playground make it family-friendly. Wildlife viewing is another popular activity, with sightings of deer, squirrels, and wild turkeys. For anglers, the lake is rich in bream, walleye, and bass.
HikingNine miles of trails surround the campground, including the Red Post Trail, a two-mile moderately difficult loop that offers scenic overlooks. However, some users report that trails are poorly maintained.
FishingFishing is a highlight, with species like walleye, catfish, and bass commonly caught. Below the dam, the river is known for excellent trout fishing.
SwimmingA designated swimming beach is located in the day-use area. Some campers also enjoy swimming directly from their lakeside campsites.
BoatingBoating is a major activity at the campground, with a boat ramp available. Visitors frequently bring kayaks, canoes, and motorized boats.
Wildlife viewingCampers often spot deer, wild turkeys, and other small animals in the surrounding wooded areas.
Beach activitiesBeach activities are centered around the sandy swimming area in the day-use section, which is described as clean and family-friendly.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSome reviews noted issues with gravel tent pads being uncomfortable for sleeping. There are also mentions of flooding during rainstorms and difficult terrain on hillsides.

Weather at Ragland Bottom

Reviews

4.7
768 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Ragland Bottom is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Ragland Bottom Campground is highly regarded for its scenic lake views, clean facilities, and friendly staff. While most campers enjoy the peaceful environment, some have noted maintenance issues and challenges with the terrain.
Review Summaries
Based on 768 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean bathrooms, well-maintained grounds, friendly and helpful camp hosts, picturesque lake views, and various recreational activities. Many users also appreciated the spacious campsites and...
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Based on 768 reviews

Common Concerns

Steep terrain for some tent sites, gravel-only tent pads, poor cell service, occasional litter left by previous campers, and noise from neighbors.
Based on 768 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring extra padding for tents to handle the gravel pads. Reserve lakeside sites for the best views. Arrive early to navigate the campground's steep roads, and stock up on supplies beforehand as the...
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Based on 768 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season due to the lake activities, but it can get crowded. Fall is quieter and ideal for enjoying the changing foliage. Spring offers pleasant weather and blooming...
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Based on 768 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The bathrooms were cleaner than anywhere I have been.' 2. 'The gravel pad was a bit hard for our anchors, but it was manageable.' 3. 'We had a wonderful time swimming and enjoying the...
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Based on 768 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #22 is spacious and close to restrooms. Site #19 offers a great water view but is close to the road. Site #57 is large but requires a steep walk to the bathrooms.
Based on 768 reviews

Accessibility Features

Mixed feedback: some areas are accessible, but the steep terrain may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues.
Based on 768 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but not on the beach or in restrooms. Some users noted that leash rules were not strictly enforced.
Based on 768 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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