Center Hill Lake
TennesseeWelcome to the Lake
36.0282°N ╱ 85.7590°W
Center Hill Lake is located in middle Tennessee – essentially central to Nashville, Knoxville and Chattanooga. Contained mostly in DeKalb County, the lake also travels into some small parts of Putnam and White County. Surrounding towns include Baxter, Smithville, Silver Point, Buffalo Valley, Sparta, Rock Island, and other rural communities.
Originally created in 1948 by a dam constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Center Hill Lake stretches 64 miles covering an area of 18,220 mostly undeveloped acres. With roughly 415 miles of shoreline and easy-rolling ridge tops, Center Hill Lake is known as a well-preserved and peaceful santuary.
Major tributaries of the lake include the Caney Fork River and the Falling Water River. Edgar Evins State Park, Burgess Falls State Park and Rock Island State Park contain portions of the lake’s shoreline. Tranquil coves wind to Burgess Falls & Fancer Falls waterfalls – two large waterfalls accessible by water. Other waterfalls, hiking trails and scenic lookout points can be found near the lake.
The emerald-like waters are well-known for fishing and recreational activities include kayaking, wakeboarding, skiing, and other interests. With Tennessee’s four distinct seasons, Center Hill Lake continues to be an ever-changing and alluring destination.
Tucked away in the thick of rural Tennessee, Center Hill Lake hosts a few widely popular annual events including July 4th Fireworks Shows and Wakefest.
We look forward to seeing you soon.



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Center Hill Lake
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Explore the Lake
Tours & GuidesThere’s no place like Center Hill Lake. Gain a new perspective by booking a tour or learning from a guide.
Places to See
Waterfalls & AttractionsCenter Hill Lake has two large waterfalls (Burgess Falls & Fancher Falls) accessible by water. There are also several local attractions in the area.
Press
The Latest
Cookeville, Tenn Awarded 2021 U.S. Kayak Open
Elite Anglers from Around the Globe to Compete on Tennessee Waters.
Guest Post: How to Take a Winter Camping Trip
A general checklist of things the keep in mind when venturing outdoors in freezing temperatures. Will offer tips and tricks to keep dry, warm, and conserve heat.
Guest Post: Edgar Evins State Park Pontoon Cruise
By Mireille Koester of the Cookeville Review. Guided by state park ranger. “The best fifteen dollars I’ve spent in a long time.”
Come on Over
Events CalendarThere is always something fun happening at the lake. See you soon, yeah?