Ragland Bottom
4.66329 reviews1410 Ragland Bottom Rd, Sparta, TN 38583, USA
Ragland Bottom
$16.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
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.
About this campground
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.
Weather and SeasonsExperience 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.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Tennessee's Highland Rim, where towering mixed hardwood forests create a living cathedral around your campsite. Wake to the gentle rustling of leaves as whitetail deer graze in the morning mist, watch playful squirrels chase through the canopy, and keep your eyes peeled for wild turkeys strutting through the underbrush. Come spring, the forest erupts in a spectacular display of white and pink as native dogwoods burst into bloom, their delicate petals dancing against the backdrop of Center Hill Lake's tranquil waters.
Geological RegionDiscover the natural splendor of central Tennessee's Highland Rim, where rolling hills carpeted in lush mixed hardwood forests meet the sparkling waters of Center Hill Lake. This geological wonderland cradles 415 miles of pristine, forest-lined shoreline, creating countless hidden coves and scenic vistas that make every sunrise and sunset a masterpiece painted across the water.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome areas within the campground may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues due to steep terrain. However, the campground does include designated accessible parking and picnic areas.
Sites SizeSites vary in size; many accommodate large RVs, and some tent sites are spacious enough for multiple tents. However, a few tent pads are noted as being too small for larger tents.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary based on site location. While some sites offer seclusion and views of the lake, others are clustered closely together, reducing privacy.
Total Campsites56 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 16 is highly praised as 'level with beautiful lake views.' Sites 1–5 are recommended for proximity to the water.
Best CampsitesPopular sites include 16 and 25 for their lake views and easier accessibility.
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.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to two tents and one wheeled camping unit per site.
Groups
The group area includes a picnic shelter with water and 15-amp electric hookups. It is suitable for larger gatherings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops: Lake, Middle, and Hill. Sites nearest the lake are highly sought after.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open for reservations from April 10 to November 2 each year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability may be limited during peak seasons, as noted by some reviews indicating the campground often books up months in advance.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the arrival date, subject to a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur additional penalties, including forfeiture of the first night’s recreation use fee.
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
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Laundry Facilities
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.
Hiking
Nine 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.Fishing
Fishing is a highlight, with species like walleye, catfish, and bass commonly caught. Below the dam, the river is known for excellent trout fishing.Swimming
A designated swimming beach is located in the day-use area. Some campers also enjoy swimming directly from their lakeside campsites.Boating
Boating is a major activity at the campground, with a boat ramp available. Visitors frequently bring kayaks, canoes, and motorized boats.Wildlife viewing
Campers often spot deer, wild turkeys, and other small animals in the surrounding wooded areas.Beach activities
Beach activities are centered around the sandy swimming area in the day-use section, which is described as clean and family-friendly.Water Sports
Boating, waterskiing, and paddleboarding are popular water sports at the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire rings are available. Heat-treated firewood must be used per federal regulations.
- Quiet hours are generally enforced, although some reviews indicate issues with noisy neighbors.
Hazards
General hazardsSome 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 forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.5 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 closest emergency services include hospitals and police stations in Smithville, TN, approximately 8 miles away. DeKalb County Emergency Services may also be contacted.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 10–November 2
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but some users have noted issues with litter being left by previous campers.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Center Hill Lake, with access to swimming areas, boat ramps, and kayaking spots.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include 'signage leaves much to be desired,' uncomfortable gravel pads for tents, and noisy neighbors during quiet hours.
HostCamp hosts, often praised in reviews, are described as friendly and helpful, with specific mentions of Tom and Joanne as excellent hosts.
Campground Map
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.
Camper Reviews
4.7
329 reviews
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 329 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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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 329 reviewsPro 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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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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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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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 329 reviewsAccessibility Features
Mixed feedback: some areas are accessible, but the steep terrain may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues.
Based on 329 reviewsPet-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 329 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025