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Edgar Evins State Park wilderness guide
State Park · TN

Edgar Evins State Park

Edgar Evins State Park offers scenic views, extensive hiking trails, and water-based recreation along the shores of Center Hill Lake, making it a peaceful destination for outdoor enthusiasts in central Tennessee.

State Park64004+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

6400

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Edgar Evins State Park

Edgar Evins State Park offers scenic views, extensive hiking trails, and water-based recreation along the shores of Center Hill Lake, making it a peaceful destination for outdoor enthusiasts in central Tennessee.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Edgar Evins State Park is located on the eastern shore of Center Hill Lake in DeKalb County, Tennessee, covering over 6,400 acres of hardwood forest and ridges that overlook the scenic waterway. The park is named after Edgar Evins, a former Tennessee state legislator who played a key role in the region's development. The park's geography features rugged hills, limestone bluffs, and a diverse forest ecosystem that supports an abundance of wildlife including white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and a variety of songbirds. Center Hill Lake provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. Visitors can explore multiple hiking and mountain biking trails that range from easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge routes offering panoramic views of the lake and forests. In addition to natural attractions, the park features picnic areas, a golf course, and camping facilities, making it a versatile destination for families, anglers, and nature lovers. The park's landscape reflects the Cumberland Plateau's ecological characteristics, with rich mixed hardwood forests and rocky outcrops. The plentiful outdoor activities and quiet atmosphere attract both day visitors and longer-term campers seeking relaxation or active recreation in a lakefront setting.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Edgar Evins State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Scenic Water & Outdoors at Center Hill Lake, Tennessee★ 6.8⌖ 13 miBoating
Center Hill Lake

Scenic Water & Outdoors at Center Hill Lake, Tennessee

Center Hill Lake near Silver Point, TN, offers accessible boating, fishing, and water sports on 24,000 acres of water. Nearby state parks provide hiking options. Best visited in spring and fall for fishing and pleasant weather. Summer brings more crowds and vibrant water activity.

Cummins Falls★ 8.3⌖ 17 miHiking
Cummins Falls

Cummins Falls

Visit Cummins Falls, a stunning waterfall located in Cummins Falls State Park, Tennessee. Enjoy a 75-foot waterfall view and a hike that is moderately challenging. Popular for hiking, swimming, and photography, it offers a mix of adventure and serenity. Best visited in spring or fall.

Cummins Falls State Park★ 7.8⌖ 17 miHiking to Waterfall
Cummins Falls State Park

Cummins Falls State Park

Explore Cummins Falls State Park near Cookeville, TN, featuring a 75-foot waterfall and swimming hole. Considered a moderate hike, it's popular for family-friendly adventures in spring and fall. Be cautious of slippery rocks.

Hiking to WaterfallView Details→
Charlotte Falls: A Natural Gem in Jackson County★ 6.5⌖ 17 miHiking
Charlotte Falls

Charlotte Falls: A Natural Gem in Jackson County

Explore Charlotte Falls in Jackson County, Tennessee. A peaceful escape offering multi-tiered waterfalls, stunning photo opportunities, and wildlife watching. Ideal for spring and fall visits. This hidden gem is great for hikers and photographers alike.

Geological Marvel: Window Cliffs, Tennessee★ 7.8⌖ 19 miHiking
Window Cliffs State Natural Area

Geological Marvel: Window Cliffs, Tennessee

Visit Window Cliffs State Natural Area, a 1.5-hour drive from Nashville. The moderate hike includes creek crossings and striking rock formations, making it ideal for adventurers and nature lovers. Spring and fall are the best seasons to explore this photogenic spot.

Cascading Beauty: Burgess Falls State Park★ 8.2⌖ 21 miHiking
Burgess Falls State Park

Cascading Beauty: Burgess Falls State Park

Explore the scenic beauty of Burgess Falls State Park's cascading waterfalls near Sparta, TN. This moderate 1.5-mile trail offers stunning river views and is perfect for hiking and fishing. Visit in spring or fall for the best experience.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Overlooks of Center Hill Lake from scenic ridge trails✦ Diverse hardwood forest ecosystem with abundant wildlife✦ Multiple access points for fishing and boating on Center Hill Lake✦ Edgar Evins Golf Course offering recreational variety
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Edgar Evins State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Edgar Evins State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Edgar Evins State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Edgar Evins State Park
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Edgar Evins State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Edgar Evins State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Edgar Evins State Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Edgar Evins State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Edgar Evins State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Edgar Evins State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Day-use fees apply; camping requires reservations and payment. Annual or day passes accepted.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Edgar Evins State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Madison Campground

Located near the entrance with amenities and close proximity to picnic and swimming areas.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Edgar Evins State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Smithville, Texas
⌖ 781.9 mi away
Gateway Basecamp

Smithville, Texas

Smithville, Texas is a quiet town perfect for outdoor lovers seeking river paddling, easy hiking, and scenic biking along the Colorado River. Its relaxed pace and natural beauty make it a peaceful getaway.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Sparta, New Jersey
⌖ 690.1 mi away
Gateway Basecamp

Sparta, New Jersey

Sparta, NJ offers a calm outdoor getaway with ample hiking, paddling, biking, and winter sports in the scenic Highlands. Enjoy lakeside adventures on Lake Mohawk and explore surrounding parks all year.

Spring through Fall for most activities; Winter for snow sportsExplore Town
Cookeville, Tennessee
⌖ 21.1 mi away
Gateway Basecamp

Cookeville, Tennessee

Cookeville offers a vibrant outdoor scene with hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities in the beautiful setting of the Cumberland Plateau. It's a perfect escape for lovers of nature and adventure.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Edgar Evins State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.