Salt Lick Creek
4.40491 reviews520 Salt Lick Park Lane
Salt Lick Creek
$20.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
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 electric sites cost $50 per night. Out-of-season booking is unavailable.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Cordell Hull Lake, Salt Lick Creek Campground welcomes outdoor enthusiasts with 150 family-friendly sites and a spacious group shelter, all thoughtfully equipped with electric hookups for modern camping comfort. Beyond the well-appointed campsites, you'll discover a full suite of amenities designed to enhance your stay: clean flush toilets and hot showers, convenient laundry facilities, and fresh drinking water throughout the grounds. Families will delight in the playground where children's laughter mingles with birdsong, while boating enthusiasts can launch their vessels directly from the campground's boat ramp. A welcoming visitor center serves as your gateway to local adventures, and the on-site dump station ensures a hassle-free departure when your memorable stay comes to an end.
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 SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds on the shores of Cordell Hull Lake, a magnificent body of water that honors one of Tennessee's most distinguished statesmen and longest-serving Secretary of State. This connection to American history runs deep through the region, with the nearby historic town of Granville beckoning visitors to step back in time. Explore centuries-old buildings, discover local artisan traditions, and immerse yourself in the authentic Appalachian culture that has shaped this corner of Tennessee for generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythms of Tennessee's seasons at Salt Lick Creek, where summer days unfold with temperatures dancing between a comfortable 60 degrees in the cool mornings to warm afternoons reaching into the 90s. The region's character reveals itself through periodic rainfall that keeps the landscape lush and green, creating those perfect petrichor-scented evenings that seasoned campers cherish. These refreshing showers transform the woodlands into a verdant paradise, making every hiking trail and lakeside stroll a sensory delight.
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 SceneryImmerse yourself in a natural amphitheater of rolling hills dressed in a magnificent tapestry of native hardwoods. Towering maples paint the autumn landscape in brilliant reds and golds, while stately oaks and hickories provide cooling shade throughout the summer months. Ancient beech trees stand sentinel alongside rare American chestnuts, creating a diverse ecosystem that serves as home to an impressive array of wildlife. Wake to the sight of white-tailed deer grazing in morning mist, watch wild turkeys parade through your campsite, and enjoy the melodic calls of waterfowl echoing across the lake at sunset.
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.
Campsite details
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."
Sites 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.
Sites 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 CampsitesSites 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 are highly recommended for seclusion and lake views.
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 are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features loops labeled Lake, Woods, and Stream. Sites are spaced well apart, especially those in the Woods loop.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 9th to October 5th for peak season bookings. Closed during off-peak season (October 6th to April 8th).
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.
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
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Laundry Facilities
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
Fishing is a popular activity, with anglers targeting white bass, rockfish, largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie. "Great for fishing," shared one camper.Swimming
Swimming is available, and many campers enjoy the designated beach area. However, some noted the beach needs maintenance: "The beach was full of seaweed and mud. It needs some TLC."Biking
Though biking is not a primary feature, campers enjoyed riding bikes within the campground. One noted, "Love walking and riding bikes around the grounds with the family."Boating
Boating activities are highly popular, with facilities like a boat ramp available. Visitors enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and motor boating.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight of the campground, with frequent sightings of deer, wild turkeys, and even the occasional black bear. "Lots of wildlife, even saw a black bear swimming in the lake," one camper mentioned.Beach activities
Beach activities like sunbathing and playing in the sand are popular, especially for families. Some noted that the beach area could use improvements.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the campground operates seasonally from spring to fall.Water Sports
Various non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are common. Campers frequently praised the peaceful lake setting as ideal for such activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted but must comply with local safety regulations.
- Quiet hours are enforced but vary. Some reviews noted noise issues during peak periods.
Hazards
General hazardsCurvy and narrow access roads pose challenges for large RVs. Wildlife encounters, including deer and waterfowl, are common but mostly benign.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Emergency 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.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 9th to October 5th
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but no specific details regarding locations or schedules were mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresMany sites have direct access to Cordell Hull Lake, offering opportunities for fishing and boating.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include poor cellular connectivity, limited Wi-Fi, overgrown grass, and issues with electrical hookups. "No cell service or emergency phones available," noted one user. Another complaint highlighted overgrown grass and long lines at the single dump station.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful, often going above and beyond for guests.
Campground Map
520 Salt Lick Park Lane
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.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."
Camper Reviews
4.4
491 reviews
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 491 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...
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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 491 reviewsPro 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...
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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 491 reviewsCamper 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 491 reviewsSite-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...
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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 491 reviewsPet-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 491 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025