Long Branch Recreation Area

For those in Tennessee seeking the perfect blend of serene natural beauty and accessible outdoor adventure, Long Branch Recreation Area is a destination you simply must experience. Tucked away in the picturesque landscape of Lancaster, this campground serves as a gateway to the stunning Caney Fork River and the expansive Center Hill Lake. Whether you are a seasoned angler, a paddling enthusiast, or a family looking for a weekend escape, Long Branch offers a unique and welcoming environment. It is a beautifully maintained U.S. Army Corps of Engineers campground, a fact that speaks to its high standards of cleanliness and upkeep. The area is celebrated for its lush, forested surroundings on the Highland Rim, providing a peaceful backdrop for all your outdoor activities. Its proximity to both a pristine river and a large lake means you have a dual-purpose recreational paradise at your fingertips. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be struck by the well-organized and tranquil atmosphere, a true respite from the everyday.

Long Branch Recreation Area is conveniently located at 478 Lancaster Rd, Lancaster, TN 38569, USA. Its prime position at the base of the impressive Center Hill Dam provides a unique setting that contributes to the area’s distinct ecosystem and beauty. Accessibility to the campground is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for a trip from across Tennessee. For those traveling from major cities like Nashville or Cookeville, the drive is relatively short and scenic. The entry and exit on the road leading to the campground can be a bit steep, so it’s something to be mindful of, but it’s easily manageable for appropriately sized vehicles. The campground’s strategic location offers unparalleled access to both the Caney Fork River, which flows below the dam, and Center Hill Lake, which sits just up a small hill. This dual access is a significant advantage for campers who enjoy a variety of water sports and activities. The accessibility for those with mobility challenges is also a key feature, with a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and toilet, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of the area without limitation.

Long Branch Recreation Area is well-equipped to provide a comfortable and engaging camping experience for a wide range of visitors. The services offered are designed to enhance your stay and make it as hassle-free as possible.

• RV and Tent Camping: The campground offers a variety of camping options, with a total of 60 campsites. Most of these sites are equipped with water and 50-amp electric hookups, catering to both RVs and tents. There are also specific RV electric and water hookups, making it convenient for those traveling with recreational vehicles. This diversity ensures that whether you prefer the rustic feel of a tent or the comfort of an RV, you can find a suitable spot.

• Essential Amenities: To ensure a comfortable stay, the campground provides essential amenities. You’ll find clean public toilets and public showers with running water, which are a welcome convenience after a day of outdoor activities. The presence of these facilities, along with a dump station on-site, makes it easy to maintain a clean and sanitary camp.

• Recreational Facilities: For leisure and family fun, the area is well-equipped. There are barbecue grills and picnic tables available at campsites, perfect for cooking and enjoying meals outdoors. The campground also features a playground with slides and swings, making it a "good for kids" destination. For water enthusiasts, a boat dock with a no-launch fee policy is available for easy access to Center Hill Lake.

• Payment Options: The campground accepts various payment methods for your convenience, including credit cards and debit cards, in addition to the standard camping fee. This flexibility makes the booking and payment process simple and straightforward.

• Pet-Friendly Policy: If you love to travel with your furry friends, you'll be happy to know that Long Branch Recreation Area is pet-friendly. Dogs are allowed, allowing you to bring your entire family along for the adventure.

• Accessibility: Long Branch Recreation Area prioritizes accessibility. It offers a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and toilet, ensuring that visitors with disabilities can enjoy the campground and its facilities with ease.

Long Branch Recreation Area is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it’s an outdoor destination rich with unique features and opportunities.

• Dual Water Access: A major highlight is the easy access to both the Caney Fork River and Center Hill Lake. This is a unique advantage that allows campers to enjoy different water-based activities. The river, known for its trophy trout fishing, is a favorite for anglers, while the lake offers a vast expanse for boating, water skiing, and paddleboarding. This dual access provides endless opportunities for exploration and fun.

• Trophy Trout Fishing: The Caney Fork River, located at the base of the dam, is a renowned spot for trout fishing. Stocked with both rainbow and brown trout, it attracts fishermen from all over the region. The cold water from behind the dam creates a beautiful, misty atmosphere, especially in the summer, adding to the scenic fishing experience.

• Family-Friendly and Picnics: As a place that is "good for kids" with a dedicated playground, it's a fantastic spot for families. The availability of picnic tables and barbecue grills also makes it an excellent choice for picnics, whether you're camping or just visiting for the day. The spacious sites and clean facilities create a safe and welcoming environment for children to play and for families to gather.

• On-Site Parking: With a free parking lot and on-site parking, setting up your camp is a breeze. This convenience means you don’t have to worry about long walks to and from your vehicle, a significant benefit for campers with a lot of gear. The ease of access to your vehicle adds a layer of comfort and security to your stay.

• Cleanliness and Maintenance: Visitors consistently praise the campground for being beautifully maintained and clean. The dedication of the volunteers and staff to groundskeeping, including planting trees and cleaning up, ensures a pleasant and pristine environment for all campers.

For more information or to make a reservation, you can contact the campground directly.

Address: 478 Lancaster Rd, Lancaster, TN 38569, USA

Phone: (615) 548-8002

What truly sets Long Branch Recreation Area apart and makes it a destination worth choosing is its unique combination of natural features and thoughtful amenities. The most compelling reason to choose this campground is its unparalleled access to two distinct bodies of water—the Caney Fork River and Center Hill Lake. This offers a wide range of recreational possibilities, from the quiet solitude of fly fishing for trout to the high-energy fun of boating and water sports on the lake. This versatility means every member of your group, regardless of their interests, will find something they love.

The campground's strong focus on being a family-friendly destination, with a dedicated playground and a safe, clean environment, makes it a top choice for those traveling with children. The availability of on-site amenities like running water, public showers, and clean toilets adds a layer of comfort that is often a deciding factor for many campers. Furthermore, the commitment to accessibility, with wheelchair-accessible facilities, ensures that more people can enjoy the great outdoors. The on-site parking and free boat launch are practical conveniences that significantly improve the overall camping experience. Finally, the consistently positive reviews from real customers highlight the beautiful, spacious, and clean sites, the helpfulness of the staff, and the peaceful, well-maintained atmosphere. This combination of natural beauty, diverse activities, and excellent facilities makes Long Branch Recreation Area not just a place to camp, but a destination for creating cherished outdoor memories in the heart of Tennessee. It is a place where you can easily find your own perfect slice of nature without sacrificing comfort and convenience, making it a truly exceptional choice for your next Tennessee adventure.

Long Branch Recreation Area

478 Lancaster Rd, Lancaster, TN 38569, USA