Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas
Open
— Open year-round with reservations available through Recreation.gov. Limited to 14 consecutive days within a 30-day period. Water levels subject to sudden changes without notice.
About
Center Hill Lake Primitive Camping Areas consist of 21 designated tent-only sites spread across the lake's extensive 415-mile shoreline. This USACE-managed camping offers a truly rustic experience for those seeking solitude and direct access to the water. Most sites are accessible only by boat, though a few can be reached by road, making this an ideal destination for paddlers and boaters who want to combine water activities with overnight camping.
Each primitive site is marked with signage and includes a fire pit, but campers should expect no other amenities. There is no water, electric, sewer, or restroom facilities of any kind. Cellular service is nonexistent or extremely limited in most locations. The remote nature of these sites means no on-site attendants, security, or law enforcement services are provided, and campers use these areas at their own risk.
The lakefront locations offer excellent fishing opportunities, as Center Hill Lake is known for hosting numerous fishing tournaments. Sites are nestled among mature hardwood forests with lake views just steps away. Nearby attractions include Edgar Evins State Park, Burgess Falls State Park with its 250-foot waterfalls, and Rock Island State Park at the confluence of three rivers. Reservations are made through Recreation.gov, and camping is limited to 14 consecutive days within a 30-day period.
Directions
Most primitive sites are accessible only by boat. A few sites can be reached by road. Directions to specific sites start from the nearest USACE facility. The GPS coordinates listed are for Center Hill Dam at 36.097869, -85.825653.
Nearby Campgrounds
