The best camping in Edgar Evins State Park, TN

Located in Tennessee’s Eastern Highland Rim, the 6,000-acre Edgar Evins State Park lies along the shores of Center Hill Lake, one of the state’s most scenic reservoirs. The lake is the setting for the most popular activities, largely fishing and boating, but there are also 12 miles of trails, ranging from easy strolls to strenuous hikes. The park’s abundant wildlife includes three owl species, hawks, and wintering bald eagles, as well as the rare cerulean warbler, a summer resident. The park has 60 campsites on raised platforms for tents and RVs up to 40 feet, as well as eight primitive, hike-in, tent-only sites.

1. Booking in advance is recommended and can be easily done online or by phone up to one year in advance.
2. Same-day booking is not available online, so you will have to call to book.
3. Double-check your dates before booking—there is a non-refundable booking fee.

There’s no bad time to visit Edgar Evins State Park, which is open year-round. With that said, spring might be the best time of all, given that this is when blooming wildflowers burst with bright colors and migrating birds and butterflies arrive in the forests and hills surrounding Center Hill Lake. If visiting outside of peak season (Memorial to Labor Day), bring everything you need, as the camp store may be closed.

• Both the Millennium Trail and the Merritt Ridge Trail share a trailhead and require registration. Registration is not required on other trails.
• You can rent boats at the year-round marina and also purchase fishing equipment, gas, and other boating supplies. The park’s seasonal camp store has snacks and camping supplies.
• Only certified heat-treated firewood is allowed to enter the park.