Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area
Open year-round. Both first-come-first-served and reservable sites available. No current alerts or closures.
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About
Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area surrounds a 45-acre lake in the heart of Davy Crockett National Forest. The lake originated as a log pond for the Central Coal and Coke Company sawmill that operated from 1902 to 1920. In 1936, the Civilian Conservation Corps transformed the area into a public recreation site, and much of that historic infrastructure remains today. The campground offers 56 campsites spread across multiple loops, with the Dogwood Loop providing 30-amp electric hookups and accommodating vehicles up to 50 feet. Sites include centralized drinking water, flush toilets, and hot showers. A designated swimming beach with playground, two wooden fishing piers, an earthen pier, fishing platform, and boat ramp provide water-based recreation. Only electric motors are permitted on the lake. Three hiking trails depart from the recreation area: the 1.5-mile Tall Pines Trail, the 0.75-mile Trail Tamers, and the 20-mile Four C Trail that traverses diverse forest types to a scenic overlook. The nearby Big Slough Wilderness Area offers additional opportunities for solitude and primitive backcountry experiences.
Directions
From Crockett, take State Highway 7 east for 15 miles. The recreation area is on the left between the towns of Ratcliff and Kennard.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | Yes |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $15 - $35 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 60ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 60ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | Yes |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (936) 655-2299 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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