How much does camping cost at Salt Lick Creek?

Camping fees at Salt Lick Creek range from $20-$50/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Salt Lick Creek first-come first-served or reservation?

Salt Lick Creek 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 Salt Lick Creek before I book?

Yes! Salt Lick Creek has 28 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 Salt Lick Creek?

Salt Lick Creek is open April 9th to October 5th. 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 Salt Lick Creek?

Yes, Salt Lick Creek has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Salt Lick Creek?

Fire policies at Salt Lick Creek: Campfires are permitted but must comply with local safety regulations.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Salt Lick Creek have?

Salt Lick Creek has 150 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Salt Lick Creek?

Yes, pets are allowed at Salt Lick Creek. 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 Salt Lick Creek?

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

What activities can I do at Salt Lick Creek?

Popular activities at Salt Lick Creek include Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Salt Lick Creek

4.39

702 reviews

520 Salt Lick Park Lane

Summer Destination

Featured in:Best Campgrounds Tennessee Camping Near Nashville Boating Camping Tennessee +9 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

646 ft

Price

$20 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

150 campsites

Season

Open from April 9th ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Salt Lick Creek Campground Set up a cancellation alert Official Website

Get Directions

Salt Lick Creek 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

646 ft

Price

$20 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

150 campsites

Season

Open from April 9th ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Salt Lick Creek Campground Set up a cancellation alert Official Website

Get Directions

Salt Lick Creek

$20.00 - $50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Peak season fees vary depending on the type of site. Standard electric sites range from $20 to $32 per night, while group shelter and group standard...

Standard Site Fee$26.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$50.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.39

Recommended

Based on 702 reviews

276 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulcleanspaciousfriendly

Some mention

cell service

"Salt Lick Creek is highly regarded for its serene environment, clean facilities, and family-friendly atmosphere. However, complaints about limited cell service, the single dump station, and the need for improved infrastructure were consistent themes."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

520 Salt Lick Park Lane

Salt Lick Creek

520 Salt Lick Park Lane

Nearby places

Carthage (approximately 4 miles), Granville (approximately 45-minute drive)

Nearby supplies

The closest supplies are in Carthage, approximately 4 miles away. Several user reviews emphasize bringing everything you need as supply runs are time-consuming, with one user noting, "Bring everything you need with you because it's an hour round trip to Carthage for supplies."

Driving directionsFrom Carthage, go 4 miles west on SR-25, then north on SR-80, then east on SR-85 to Gladice. Turn right on Smith Bend Road and follow signs.

The campground is accessible via paved roads, but several user reviews highlight curvy and narrow roads as a significant challenge, especially for large RVs. "The road going to this campground in areas is very narrow," noted one user. Cellular connectivity is extremely limited.

Best Time to Camp at Salt Lick Creek

Fall delivers the best camping conditions, with daytime highs in the 50s to 70s°F and crisp mornings ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing. The hardwood forest turns brilliant red, gold, and rust as maples, oaks, and hickories change color. Fishing and boating remain productive as water temperatures cool, and crowds thin out compared to midsummer. Summer temperatures range from 60°F in the mornings to the 90s in the afternoons, with periodic rainfall keeping the landscape green.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Best season: crisp days, ideal temps and brilliant hardwood fall colors highlighted by reviewers.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 9th to October 5th. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from April 9th to October 5th for peak season bookings. Closed during off-peak season (October 6th to April 8th).

About Salt Lick Creek

Salt Lick Creek Campground sits along Cordell Hull Lake near Gainesboro, offering 150 sites with electric hookups and fees ranging from $20 to $50 per night. The campground has flush toilets, hot showers, laundry facilities, a boat ramp, and a playground. Cell service is extremely limited. Most areas have no signal at all, though a few spots near the entrance or water may pick up coverage.

The campground offers standard family sites, group shelters, and accessible facilities for both tent and RV camping. While there are no luxury or 'glamping' options, the facilities cater to families and groups seeking traditional camping experiences.

Historical Significance

Cordell Hull Lake honors Tennessee's longest-serving Secretary of State. The nearby historic town of Granville features old buildings and local Appalachian traditions.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the best camping conditions, with daytime highs in the 50s to 70s°F and crisp mornings ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing. The hardwood forest turns brilliant red, gold, and rust as maples, oaks, and hickories change color. Fishing and boating remain productive as water temperatures cool, and crowds thin out compared to midsummer. Summer temperatures range from 60°F in the mornings to the 90s in the afternoons, with periodic rainfall keeping the landscape green.

ElevationThe campground's gentle terrain offers comfortable camping for all experience levels, with sites naturally integrated into the landscape's subtle contours.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground rests in the Cumberland River System at 646 feet elevation, surrounded by rolling hills and mixed hardwood forest. Maples, oaks, hickories, beech, and American chestnut trees dominate the canopy, providing shade across most of the camping area. White-tailed deer appear at dawn and dusk, while turkeys forage through the underbrush and squirrels move through the trees overhead. The lake shoreline offers direct water access for boating and fishing.

Geological RegionSalt Lick Creek Campground rests within the enchanting geography of the Cumberland River System, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of graceful rolling hills and fertile valleys. This diverse terrain supports a thriving mixed hardwood forest dominated by maple, hickory, oak, beech, and precious chestnut trees. The rich ecosystem provides sanctuary for abundant wildlife, from the majestic white-tailed deer that emerge at dawn and dusk to the clever turkeys that forage through the underbrush and the playful squirrels that chatter from the canopy above. This natural wonderland offers endless opportunities for wildlife observation and photography, making every moment at camp a potential encounter with Tennessee's native creatures.

Scenic ViewsMany sites have lake views, with some providing direct water access. "Waterfront view, semi-private private site, and water accessibility. Our site checked all of those off the list," said one user.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodges are available, as the campground focuses on camping accommodations like tent and RV sites.

Programs & ActivitiesNo formal cultural or educational programs are offered at this campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in policies are flexible but typically start at 3 PM.

Check-out

Check-out is generally required by 11 AM.

Stay Limit

Maximum of 14 nights during a visit and within a rolling 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Standard site rules allow two tents or one wheeled camping unit and one tent.

Groups

The group shelter accommodates large gatherings with electric hookups, though specific capacity details were not provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground divides into three loops: Lake, Woods, and Stream. Spacing varies. The Woods loop offers better separation between sites, while other areas can feel tight. Some campers note that certain sites lack privacy, with neighbors close enough to hear conversations. Many sites are spacious enough for large rigs. The single dump station can back up during busy weekends.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov and its mobile app.

Walk-in AvailabilityLimited availability for walk-up sites during peak season. Reviews suggest booking early to secure desirable sites.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before the check-in date incur a $10 fee, while late cancellations also forfeit the first night's use fee. Changes to reservations cost $10 for new stay dates.

AccessibilityThe campground offers some accessibility features. However, there's feedback suggesting that more could be done, such as closer restrooms to handicap sites. One reviewer noted, "Still wish there was a closer restroom to these handicap sites.

Site SizeThe sites are described as spacious, with many offering ample room for large RVs and additional vehicles. Some sites have pull-through access and are located close to the water.

PrivacyMany sites are well-spaced, offering a degree of seclusion. However, some campers noted a lack of privacy, stating, "There is no privacy anywhere; the sites are so close to each other.

Total Campsites150 campsites

Recommended SitesSites near the lake are recommended for scenic views and water access. "Try to get a lake view site," said one user.

Best CampsitesSites 56 and 105 get consistent recommendations for seclusion and lake views. Waterfront sites book up quickly, so reserve early if you want direct water access. Some sites offer pull-through access and room for large RVs plus additional vehicles.

Need help booking Salt Lick Creek?

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

Salt Lick Creek Campground offers a wide range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay for visitors. The campground boasts 150 family sites and one large group shelter, all equipped with electric hookups. Notable facilities include flush toilets, showers, drinking water, laundry facilities, a dump station, a boat ramp, a playground, and a visitor center. "The park is very well-kept," noted one camper, while another mentioned, "We love Salt Lick Creek; the campsites are spacious and clean." However, some reviewers highlighted the need for updates, particularly in the bathhouses: "The shower water makes its way to the bench and what's supposed to be the dry area." Some campers also mentioned long lines at the single dump station, especially on weekends.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Salt Lick Creek Campground offers an array of recreational activities suited for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing are popular pastimes. The playground and volleyball courts are frequently used by families. While many enjoy the peaceful setting, the lack of hiking trails within the campground has been noted.

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Beach activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsCurvy and narrow access roads pose challenges for large RVs. Wildlife encounters, including deer and waterfowl, are common but mostly benign.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted but must comply with local safety regulations.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced but vary. Some reviews noted noise issues during peak periods.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are limited due to poor cellular connectivity, according to user reviews. "In the case of an emergency, it would be practically impossible to get emergency help on the way in time to save a life," said one user. Public Wi-Fi is available only at specific areas like the restroom and boat ramp parking lot.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but no specific details regarding locations or schedules were mentioned.

Water FeaturesMany sites have direct access to Cordell Hull Lake, offering opportunities for fishing and boating.

Camp HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful, often going above and beyond for guests.

Weather at Salt Lick Creek

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

4.4

702 reviews

Recommended

Salt Lick Creek is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Salt Lick Creek is highly regarded for its serene environment, clean facilities, and family-friendly atmosphere. However, complaints about limited cell service, the single dump station, and the need for improved infrastructure were consistent themes.

Review Summaries

Based on 702 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the peaceful ambiance, spacious sites, and friendly hosts. "Great place to relax and fish," one camper noted. Many appreciated the cleanliness, with comments like, "The bathrooms were...

Based on 702 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues include the lack of cell service, limited Wi-Fi, and long lines at the dump station. Some users also mentioned poorly maintained roads and occasional power outages.

Based on 702 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers suggest bringing all necessary supplies, as the nearest town is a significant drive away. Booking waterfront sites early is advised, as they are in high demand. "Bring everything you need, as...

Based on 702 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is busiest during weekends and holidays. Summer months are highly popular for swimming and boating, while spring offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Based on 702 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The sites are large and well-spaced, many with water views." "The only downside is the lack of cell service, but it forces you to disconnect and enjoy nature."

Based on 702 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsite 021 was highlighted for its lake views and hookups. Campsite 099 was noted for its secluded setting but steep terrain. Multiple users complained about site 103 being too narrow for larger...

Based on 702 reviews

Accessibility Features

Reviews mention that handicap-accessible features like closer restrooms are needed. "Still wish there was a closer restroom to these handicap sites," a user shared.

Based on 702 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but reviews indicated that leash rules are not always enforced. "Some campers let their dogs roam, which is concerning," one review noted.

Based on 702 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Campgrounds

Cordell Hull Lake

Salt Lick Creek

About Cordell Hull Lake

Context for the broader area surrounding Salt Lick Creek, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

Visitors to Cordell Hull Lake enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, under license to the Corps, administers an intensive wildlife management program at the lake.

Directions

From Nashville, east on I-40, north on TN 53 to Carthage.