How much does camping cost at Lock A?

Camping fees at Lock A range from $24-$28/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Lock A first-come first-served or reservation?

Lock A accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Lock A before I book?

Yes! Lock A has 9 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Lock A?

Lock A is open April 1, 2025 - October 30, 2025.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Lock A?

Yes, Lock A has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Lock A?

Fire policies at Lock A: Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings but firewood must be locally sourced due to pest concerns.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Is there cell service at Lock A?

Cell phone service at Lock A is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Lock A have?

Lock A has 45 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Lock A?

Yes, pets are allowed at Lock A. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Lock A?

Lock A offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Lock A

4.67

772 reviews

1798 CHEATHAM DAM ROAD, ASHLAND CITY, TN, 37015-9805, USA

Summer Destination

Featured in:Family-Friendly Campgrounds Tennessee#1 Tent Camping Tennessee#1 Best Campgrounds Tennessee#1 +13 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

472 ft

Price

$24 - $28/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

45 campsites

Season

Open from April 1 to...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Set up a cancellation alert Official Website

Get Directions

Lock A is a popular campground. Set up a free alert to catch cancellations.

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

472 ft

Price

$24 - $28/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

45 campsites

Season

Open from April 1 to...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Set up a cancellation alert Official Website

Get Directions

Lock A

$24.00 - $28.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees for campsites range between $24 and $28 depending on the site type. Additional fees may apply for reservations, cancellations, and modifications.

Standard Site Fee$24.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$28.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

615-792-3715

Been here recently?

Campers like you keep our info accurate. Fix a detail in under 30 seconds.

Plan a trip to Lock A

Compare with similar sites, watch availability, and build a packing list — Camp Sage handles all of it.

What Campers Say

4.67

Top-Rated

Based on 772 reviews

182 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanspaciousfriendly

Some mention

reservation

"Overall, the reviews highlight Lock A Campground as a clean, scenic, and family-friendly destination. Many visitors praised its spacious sites, helpful staff, and waterfront access. Complaints mostly centered around the outdated shower facilities and occasional maintenance issues."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

1798 CHEATHAM DAM ROAD, ASHLAND CITY, TN, 37015-9805, USA

Lock A

1798 CHEATHAM DAM ROAD, ASHLAND CITY, TN, 37015-9805, USA

Nearby places

Ashland City (approximately 9 miles), Clarksville (approximately 30 miles), Nashville (approximately 25 miles)

Nearby supplies

A small general store near the campground entrance provides bait, pizza, and essential camping items. Ashland City offers grocery stores and other supplies within a short drive.

Best Time to Camp at Lock A

Fall delivers the best conditions, with daytime temperatures in the mid-50s to mid-70s°F and nights dropping into the 40s. Late September through October brings reliable weather for cycling and hiking, steady water levels for boating, and October foliage along the river. Summer gets hot but the tree canopy provides natural cooling. Spring offers wildflowers and moderate temperatures. Winter sees fewer crowds and crisp hiking days, though some facilities may have reduced hours.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Fall described as best—mild temps and ideal conditions for cycling and hiking.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 1, 2025 - October 30, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from April 1 to October 30, 2025. Reservations begin on June 20, 2025.
Current Alerts: No current active alerts.

About Lock A

Lock A Campground stretches along the Cumberland River's north bank near Ashland City, offering 45 sites with electric and water hookups ranging from $24 to $28 per night. The campground sits at 472 feet elevation in north-central Tennessee's river valley, where hardwood forests meet the water. Campers fish from the shoreline, watch towering barges navigate the lock, and bike the adjacent Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail, a rails-to-trails conversion that follows the old railroad corridor.

Lock A Campground caters to a variety of campers, including those using RVs and tents. It is known for its spacious and scenic sites, particularly those along the waterfront.

Historical Significance

The Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail runs adjacent to the campground, following the path of a historic railroad line. A preserved trestle spans Sycamore Creek along the route. The trail connects modern cyclists and hikers to Tennessee's transportation heritage, though the railroad itself has been converted to recreational use. The river has drawn travelers for generations, from indigenous peoples to steamboat operators to the railroad engineers who once guided trains through this valley.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the best conditions, with daytime temperatures in the mid-50s to mid-70s°F and nights dropping into the 40s. Late September through October brings reliable weather for cycling and hiking, steady water levels for boating, and October foliage along the river. Summer gets hot but the tree canopy provides natural cooling. Spring offers wildflowers and moderate temperatures. Winter sees fewer crowds and crisp hiking days, though some facilities may have reduced hours.

Natural Features and SceneryThe Cumberland River dominates the landscape here, its wide channel hosting constant barge traffic and providing fishing access along the shoreline. Mature hardwoods shade most campsites, their canopy filtering Tennessee sun onto concrete and blacktop pads below. The surrounding hills create a temperate river valley with diverse vegetation. Wildlife sightings include deer at dawn and herons stalking the shallows. The setting feels more working river than wilderness. You'll hear boat engines and watch commercial traffic move through the lock. But the combination of moving water and forest cover creates a pleasant backdrop for camping.

Geological RegionLock A Campground sits in the heart of north-central Tennessee's Cumberland River valley, where millennia of geological forces have carved a landscape of gentle hills, fertile bottomlands, and winding waterways. This temperate region showcases the best of Tennessee's natural diversity, with the Cumberland River serving as both a recreational playground and vital ecosystem. The surrounding forested hills and river valley create multiple microclimates that support an impressive variety of plant and animal life, making every visit a new opportunity for discovery.

Scenic ViewsUsers frequently highlight stunning views of the Cumberland River and opportunities to watch barges pass by.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere is no hotel-style lodging available at Lock A Campground. However, nearby towns like Ashland City offer accommodations.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in is at 2 PM.

Check-out

Check-out is at 2 PM.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 8 persons per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites loop through the campground on concrete and blacktop pads for RVs, with large grassy areas for tents. Most sites are spacious and level. The access road drops steeply into the campground, so watch your speed on entry. Spacing varies. Some sites feel roomy and private, others sit closer together.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up sites are available; all sites must be reserved.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and cancellations made one day before check-in result in forfeiting the first night's fee.

AccessibilityLock A Campground offers spacious sites, many of which are paved and level, making them accessible for RVs and individuals with mobility needs. However, the steep road into the campground might be challenging for some vehicles.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size but are generally described as spacious. Specific mentions include concrete and blacktop pads for RVs and large, grassy areas for tents.

PrivacySites offer moderate privacy, with some being more secluded and others closer together. Several waterfront sites offer scenic views but are less private due to their popularity.

Total Campsites45 campsites

Recommended SitesSite 45 is recommended for tent camping due to its peninsula location offering views on both sides. Sites 37 and 39 provide excellent river views.

Best CampsitesSites 37, 39, and 45 get mentioned for waterfront views, though those riverside spots sacrifice privacy because they're popular and visible. Several campers note that waterfront sites offer better scenery but expect neighbors and foot traffic. Interior sites provide more seclusion if you're willing to trade the river views.

Need help booking Lock A?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Lock A Campground offers a range of amenities catering to both RV and tent campers. The sites are equipped with 50 amp electric hookups and water connections. Additional features include hot showers, a dump station, a playground, a boat launch, and a picnic shelter. Notably, the campground has one central bathhouse, described as clean but dated, with some facilities requiring maintenance. "Restrooms are cleaned daily," according to one review. Trash cans are provided at each site, and garbage is collected daily.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Campers at Lock A can engage in a variety of activities including hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming. The nearby Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail offers additional recreational opportunities.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsFalling branches are mentioned as a natural hazard. User reviews occasionally highlight issues with ticks and snakes near water areas.

Active AlertsNo current active alerts.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed in designated fire rings but firewood must be locally sourced due to pest concerns.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours begin at 11 PM.

Emergency ServicesThe nearest hospital is in Ashland City, approximately 9 miles away. Emergency services including police and fire station are also located in Ashland City.

Trash & RecyclingTrash cans are provided at each campsite and are emptied daily. However, there is no central dumpster available for campers to use.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to Cheatham Lake and the Cumberland River, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming.

Camp HostHosts are frequently described as helpful and friendly, though some users report isolated instances of less accommodating behavior.

Cell CoverageAT&T cellular signal is generally good with around two bars of service, while Verizon service was described as spotty. One user noted, "Plenty of channels available using antenna TV." Another mentioned, "Wi-Fi is not available, but cellular service worked fine for hotspot usage."

Weather at Lock A

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.7

772 reviews

Top-Rated

Lock A is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, the reviews highlight Lock A Campground as a clean, scenic, and family-friendly destination. Many visitors praised its spacious sites, helpful staff, and waterfront access. Complaints mostly centered around the outdated shower facilities and occasional maintenance issues.

Review Summaries

Based on 772 reviews

What Campers Love

The campground's cleanliness, spacious sites, and scenic views were frequently praised. Many users enjoyed watching boats and barges on the river, and families appreciated the playgrounds and...

Based on 772 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints often focused on the bathhouse, with comments about outdated facilities and cleanliness issues during peak times. "The showers need a serious update," and "There was mold in the corners,"...

Based on 772 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing treated firewood as the campground does not sell it, and being prepared for the steep road leading to the site. "Bring your own firewood and enjoy the beautiful views!" one...

Based on 772 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall were highlighted as the best seasons for camping, with milder weather and fewer crowds. Summer reviews noted increased activity and occasional maintenance delays. Winter camping is...

Based on 772 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The river sites are amazing! We camp here a lot and enjoy sitting by the river relaxing." "It's a great place to stay to get away from the world." "Watching the barges go by is a peaceful event."

Based on 772 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 45 received excellent reviews for its scenic location. "The nicest tent site we have ever camped on," one user said. Sites 39 and 40 were praised for their proximity to water, while site 33 was...

Based on 772 reviews

Accessibility Features

Sites are generally accessible, with many being paved and level. The steep entry road and lack of a nearby bathroom for tent campers were noted as potential issues for individuals with mobility...

Based on 772 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and many users noted the campground's suitability for pets. "Plenty of places to walk the dog while watching barges pass by," one user commented. However, barking dogs were...

Based on 772 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Nearby Campgrounds

Highly Popular

4.7

(250)

Harpeth River Bridge Campground (Tn)

2914 Hwy 49W, Ashland City, TN, 37015, USA.

Harpeth River Bridge Campground sits on a peninsula formed by the river's dramatic oxbow bend, where 15 sites offer water and electric hookups beneath mature hardwoods. The campground operates from spring through October 30, charging $22 per night with a boat ramp, dump station, and showers. Campers consistently praise the cleanliness and friendly hosts, though the nearby bridge generates steady traffic noise.