Cordell Hull Lake Horse Camp Boondocking
in Granville, TN
Remote Camping and Outdoor Adventure
| ADDRESS |
|---|
| Granville, TN GPS: 36.316715, -85.793297 Elevation: 514′ |
| MANAGEMENT |
| Public – Corps of Engineers (Official) (615) 735-1034 This is a FREE campsite. |
Previous Reviews:
Cordell Hull Lake Horse Camp Boondocking: Lots of room for horse trailers. It is very quiet during the week but is full of riders on the weekends. Civil Engineer property… free and open to camping… Nice big open area with many options… quite pretty down by the water though might need a smaller rig to maneuver close… Plenty of room for large RVs and horse/supplemental trailers. (not exclusively for horse campers)
Quiet spot. Few folks were there. It’s a large grassy area surrounding a gravel loop. A few tree. Fairly flat, no hammock spots. I did not see the way to access the lake if there was one. The road in is short, and in good shape for any vehicle.
About This Location
Looking for a quiet spot to camp near Granville, TN? Cordell Hull Lake Horse Camp boondocking area gives you a unique boondocking experience. This primitive camping area lets you set up in open fields without hookups, so you get a simple, free way to hang out in nature by the lake. It’s a solid pick if you want to unplug and just enjoy the peaceful Upper Cumberland region.
You’ll see rolling hills and woods all around—great for horseback riding or just wandering. The spot sits close to Cordell Hull Lake, so you get wildlife and some beautiful trails right at your doorstep. There’s plenty of room for tents, RVs, and trailers, but don’t expect paid or reserved campsites.
You can drive right up; it’s not hard to reach. Whether you’re in a small RV or towing a trailer, you’ll find a place to park and settle in. So if you want a quiet, natural spot without the busy campground vibe, Cordell Hull Lake Horse Camp boondocking area is worth a look.
Key Takeaways
- Camp for free in open fields—no hookups.
- Trailers and RVs can get in, but smaller setups are easier.
- It’s peaceful, with trails and wildlife nearby.
Cordell Hull Lake Horse Camp Boondocking In Granville, TN
If you want to boondock with your horse, Cordell Hull Lake Horse Camp boondocking area is a good spot. It sits near Granville, TN, about 80 miles east of Nashville. The area offers free camping with plenty of open space.
The camp sits close to the water, making it a quiet and scenic place. If you’ve got a smaller rig, you’ll have an easier time getting close to the lake. Larger vehicles might have a tougher time with some of the tighter spots.
Camping here is mostly dispersed. You won’t find many developed facilities, so you’ll want to bring your own water, food, and supplies.
The horse trails wind around the lake, surrounded by hills and woods. If you want to ride in a natural setting, this is the place. Two main trails hug the lake’s banks, giving you some nice views along the way.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Granville, TN |
| Camp Type | Free, dispersed camping |
| Access | Smaller rigs easier near water |
| Facilities | Minimal, bring own supplies |
| Horse Trails | Two trails along the lake |
| Nearby Roads | I-40 to Carthage, then Hwy 53 |
If you’re after simple camping and quiet time with your horse by the water, this site works well.
Things To Do
At Cordell Hull Lake Horse Camp boondocking area, you can enjoy boondocking in a laid-back, natural spot. The area’s open for free camping, so you’ve got room to set up near the water. Smaller rigs are easier to get close, just as a heads up.
You’ll find 22 miles of horse trails. These trails work for all skill levels, so whether you’re brand new or you’ve been riding forever, you’ll get to explore the hills and woods around the lake. If you’re bringing horses, this is a great place to ride.
Fishing and boating are pretty popular too. The lake’s peaceful, and there are some good spots if you want to catch fish. Kayaks and small boats fit right in.
If you’re not riding or out on the water, hiking is also an option, with some nice overlooks. The area’s full of wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for deer or maybe a fox if you’re lucky.
Here’s a quick list of what you can do:
- Camp near the water
- Horseback ride on 22 miles of trails
- Fish and boat
- Hike and watch for wildlife
Cordell Hull Lake Horse Camp boondocking area is a good pick if you want a simple, outdoorsy experience.
Directions
To get to Cordell Hull Lake Horse Camp boondocking area in Granville, TN, take Interstate 40 east.
Hop off at Carthage, exit 258.
From there, head north on Highway 53 for about four miles.
Turn right onto US Highway 70 east.
The entrance to the horse camp and boondocking area is just past Granville, near the road. The trailhead’s right there.
Here’s a table to help you out:
| Step | Route Detail | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | I-40 east | From your starting point |
| 2 | Exit 258 (Carthage) | Take this exit |
| 3 | Highway 53 north | Travel about 4 miles |
| 4 | US 70 east | Turn right after Hwy 53 |
| 5 | Cordell Hull Lake Horse Camp | Near Granville |
If you want to get down to the water or the open camping areas, make sure your vehicle can handle it. Large rigs might have some trouble with tighter spots.
Watch for signs once you’re past Granville to find parking and camping.
Vehicle Access
You can drive to Cordell Hull Lake Horse Camp boondocking area via I-40. Take the Carthage exit, then head north on Highway 53 toward Granville. The trail entrance sits right past Granville, next to the road.
There’s a small parking area by the trail entrance. You can leave your vehicle here while you explore the campground and trails.
The roads in are paved and work for most vehicles—cars, small trucks, you name it. If you’re driving a big RV or camper, check the clearance and turning space before you show up.
Once you park, you’ll need to walk or ride your horses on the trails, since vehicle access past the lot is limited. The area’s pretty primitive, with few services and no real vehicle camping spots.
If you’re bringing horses, designated horse trails are nearby. You can unload your horse trailers in the parking area, just be courteous to others.
Stick to the posted signs and respect the environment. Pack out everything you bring, and leave no trace when you leave.
RV And Camping Trailer Information
You can camp at Cordell Hull Lake Horse Camp boondocking area with your RV or trailer, but just know the area’s pretty primitive. There are no hookups for water, electricity, or sewage, so you’ll need to be fully self-contained.
Smaller rigs do best here. The roads and campsites get narrow, so big or long trailers can be tough to maneuver. If you’ve got a compact RV or camper trailer, you’ll have an easier time.
Camping’s free and open to everyone. Bring your own water and supplies, since there aren’t any facilities. Pack out all your trash to keep the place nice.
Key Info for RV and Trailers:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Hookups | None |
| Permit | Possibly required |
| Site Access | Best for small rigs |
| Water/Electricity | None |
| Dump Station | None nearby |
| Fee | Free |
If you want to park by the water, smaller rigs can get closer. Large RVs may have to stay farther back. Be ready for a rustic experience—no modern amenities here, but that’s part of the charm, isn’t it?
Paid Or Permit Sites
At Cordell Hull Lake Horse Camp boondocking area, you might need a permit for certain camping areas. Honestly, it’s best to double-check before you roll up—rules can shift depending on the season or how busy things get. That permit system’s there to help keep the place in decent shape and avoid overcrowding.
You’ll find both dispersed and designated sites around here. Dispersed camping usually skips the fees, but you’re on your own for hauling in supplies and packing out every last bit of trash. Don’t expect much in the way of amenities out there.
If you’re after a few comforts or want a spot locked in ahead of time, you’ll probably end up at a paid or permit site. Some of those are right by the water or have easier access, though they might not fit bigger rigs.
Stick to the permit and fee rules—they’re not just for show. Following them keeps the area open and decent for everyone. You can grab permits from the local ranger office or online, depending on what’s easier (and what’s actually available).
Here’s what’s worth remembering:
- Permit might be required for some campsites
- Dispersed camping is free but offers next to nothing for services
- Paid sites can mean better access or a few more comforts
- Always pack out your trash—seriously, don’t leave a mess
Checking the latest rules before you head out can save you a headache and help you land the kind of spot you’re looking for.
| AMENITIES: | ACTIVITIES: |
|---|---|
| Boat Ramp Fire Ring Near Water Picnic Tables Restrooms |
RV Camping Tent Camping Hiking Stargazing Boating Horse Trails Wildlife Viewing |
Helpful Boondocking Information Links:
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