Floating Mill Park
4.30224 reviews430 Floating Mill Lane
Floating Mill Park
$24.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$24.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees vary depending on the type of campsite. Electric sites cost up to $32 per night, while tent-only sites with electric hookups are $24 per night. Group picnic areas are available for $50 per day.
About this campground
Nestled on a scenic peninsula where three sides kiss the sparkling waters of Center Hill Lake, Floating Mill Park offers an enchanting escape into Tennessee's natural beauty. This waterfront haven invites adventurers to cast their lines into productive fishing waters, launch their boats for endless lake exploration, or simply unwind to the gentle lapping of waves against the shore. Well-appointed campsites range from electric hookups for RV enthusiasts to secluded tent-only spots for those seeking a more intimate connection with nature. Families gather at spacious group picnic areas while children's laughter echoes from the playground, and modern amenities including hot showers and flush toilets ensure comfort meets wilderness in perfect harmony.
Floating Mill Park offers a mix of camping accommodations, including options for tents, RVs, and group camping. The park is well-suited for both short and extended stays.
Historical SignificanceAdventure extends beyond the campground's borders to nearby natural treasures that showcase Tennessee's geological wonders. Edgar Evins State Park beckons with miles of scenic hiking trails that wind through ancient forests, while Burgess Falls State Park captivates visitors with its spectacular cascade system plunging over limestone ledges. Nature enthusiasts will delight in Burgess Falls' native butterfly garden, where colorful wings dance among wildflowers, creating a living kaleidoscope that celebrates the region's biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Weather and SeasonsFrom April through November, Floating Mill Park comes alive as warm Tennessee sunshine bathes the campground in golden light, creating perfect conditions for swimming, boating, and lakeside lounging. Summer brings balmy evenings ideal for campfire gatherings, while autumn transforms the surrounding hardwood forests into a breathtaking canvas of crimson and gold. As temperatures cool in fall, the crowds thin, offering peaceful moments to enjoy the lake's serene beauty and crisp morning air that carries the scent of turning leaves.
ElevationPerched at the gentle elevations characteristic of Tennessee's Highland Rim, the campground offers varied topography that creates both waterfront sites and hillside retreats, each providing unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryMorning mist rises from Center Hill Lake to reveal a landscape painted in countless shades of green, where towering hardwoods create a natural cathedral overhead. The rolling hills and dense forests shelter an abundance of wildlife that transforms each day into a nature documentary. Campers often wake to find white-tailed deer grazing peacefully outside their tents—one visitor fondly recalls discovering "Mama deer and her two fawns right outside our window when we woke up in the morning." Wild turkeys strut through the underbrush while playful squirrels provide endless entertainment as they leap from branch to branch in their acrobatic displays.
Geological RegionFloating Mill Park sits proudly within Tennessee's Highland Rim, a distinctive geological region where ancient limestone foundations have given rise to a landscape of remarkable beauty. The mixed hardwood forests that blanket the rolling hills create a rich tapestry of oak, hickory, and maple, their roots anchored in soil that tells the story of millions of years of natural history. This elevated plateau surrounding Center Hill Lake combines dramatic topography with the gentle beauty of mature forests, creating an ecosystem where water, stone, and forest converge in perfect harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is not fully ADA accessible. Several campsites require climbing stairs, and some visitors have reported difficulties with steep terrain and rocky access paths.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with some large enough for RVs and others more suitable for smaller campers or tents. Certain sites are reported to be tight and challenging for larger vehicles.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are described as being in close proximity to each other, leading to limited privacy. Some reviews mention feeling crowded due to the design of the sites on a hill.
Total Campsites125 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid large rigs due to narrow access roads and tight maneuvering. Terraced campsites offer the best lake views but are close to neighbors.
Best CampsitesSites 78, 79, and 80 are praised for their lakefront views and spacing.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is typically at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is typically at 12 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site allows one wheeled camping unit and one tent or two tents. Additional vehicles incur a $3 fee per reservation.
Groups
The group picnic area can accommodate up to 125 guests and includes a large shelter, picnic tables, water, and 30-amp electric hookups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops, including TCLP and FMIP, with tent-only sites specified.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground opens on April 10 and closes on November 2 each year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or its mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites are available, but often limited, especially during peak season weekends. "We used a walk-up campsite, large and spacious."
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, and the first night's recreation fee is forfeited for late cancellations (midnight 1 calendar day before check-in).
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Floating Mill Park is an activity-rich destination, offering a variety of recreational options both on and off the water. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The proximity to Center Hill Lake provides ample opportunities for water-based activities.
Hiking
The campground features access to nine miles of hiking trails around Center Hill Lake. The Lost Springs Trail, a two-mile loop, is a notable option for hikers. Trails vary in difficulty and offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding woodlands.Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction at Center Hill Lake, with species such as bream, walleye, smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, and white bass available. Below the dam, the Caney Fork River is known as a productive trout fishery.Swimming
Designated swimming areas are available within the campground. While the beach provides a scenic spot for swimming, some visitors have reported issues with marina equipment blocking access.Boating
Boating is highly popular at the park, with activities such as canoeing and waterskiing available. A boat ramp and marina provide easy access to Center Hill Lake, though some users have noted issues with the ramp’s condition and a lack of parking for trailers.Wildlife viewing
The campground is surrounded by lush hardwood forests, offering opportunities to observe local wildlife such as deer, wild turkey, and squirrels. Visitors have reported seeing deer grazing near campsites.Water Sports
Water sports such as canoeing and waterskiing are popular activities on the lake, providing recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are enforced but inconsistently based on reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsSome tent sites feature steep, hazardous steps. Poison ivy is noted in underbrush. "Be careful trying to get through some of the underbrush; there was poison ivy in a lot of places."
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services are null.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 10 - November 2.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available at the campground, but recycling facilities are not mentioned. Campers are expected to keep their sites clean and dispose of trash properly.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is surrounded by Center Hill Lake on three sides, offering boating and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsComplaints include crowded campsites, rude hosts, and poor Wi-Fi connectivity. "Sites are extremely close together and noisy."
HostHosts are often described as helpful and friendly, though reviews vary widely. "The hosts were very welcoming and helpful."
Campground Map
430 Floating Mill Lane
Driving directionsFrom I-40, take exit 273. Merge onto US-56 south and continue for 3.5 miles to Floating Mill Road. After about a mile, turn right to stay on Floating Mill Road, and follow signs into the campground.
The road leading to the campground is described as narrow but manageable. "The road to the park gets a bit narrow, but once you're in the park the roads are fine." Some reviewers noted difficulty navigating sharp turns and steep inclines, especially for larger rigs.Nearby places
Silver Point (approximately 5 miles, 10 minutes)
Edgar Evins State Park (approximately 25 minutes)
Burgess Falls State Park (approximately 35 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and supplies are accessible in Smithville, with Tractor Supply offering firewood options. "If you want a fire, be prepared to drive into Smithville. Tractor Supply wood was great." Nearby Edgar Evins State Park also has amenities.
Camper Reviews
4.3
224 reviews
Floating Mill Park is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Floating Mill Park is highly praised for its scenic views, waterfront access, and range of amenities. However, visitor feedback highlights some recurring issues such as crowded campsites, inconsistent bathroom maintenance, and occasional challenges with staff interactions.
Review Summaries
Based on 224 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users appreciate the clean restrooms, beautiful views of Center Hill Lake, and the availability of various amenities. The campground is also commended for offering a relaxing environment with...
Based on 224 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Visitors frequently mention problems with campsite spacing, describing them as too close together. Other complaints include outdated bathroom facilities, insufficient parking for boats and trailers,...
Based on 224 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing your own firewood as it is not sold on-site and planning ahead for boat parking. For those with mobility concerns, avoiding sites requiring stair access is advised.
Based on 224 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer visits often highlight the lake and water-based activities, while fall reviews commonly praise the scenic foliage. Holiday weekends are noted to be crowded, which could affect the overall...
Based on 224 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The park gets better and better every time. Upgrades all around, maintained, clean, etc." - Michael P. "Showers in the tent area need to be updated." - Matthew S. "Loved the beautiful lake where you...
Based on 224 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #78 is frequently highlighted as offering some of the best lake views, while site #60 has been described as having hazardous wooden stairs.
Based on 224 reviewsAccessibility Features
Several reviews mention the lack of ADA accessibility, particularly for campsites with stairs or rocky paths. Visitors with mobility issues may find the steep terrain challenging.
Based on 224 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome at the campground, but they are prohibited in certain areas such as the beach and restrooms. Visitors emphasize the importance of adhering to leash requirements.
Based on 224 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025