Center Hill Lake Beach within Edgar Evins State Park sits on the shores of Center Hill Lake, a Tennessee Valley Authority reservoir on the Caney Fork River in DeKalb County, Tennessee, approximately 60 miles east of Nashville. The park occupies a central position along the lake's main basin, where limestone bluffs, dense hardwood forest, and unusually clear blue-green water converge to create one of Middle Tennessee's most scenic freshwater destinations.
The designated swimming area at Edgar Evins features a gently sloping shoreline with a mix of sand and fine gravel, leading into some of the clearest inland water found anywhere in Tennessee. Center Hill Lake is renowned for its exceptional water clarity, a result of minimal upstream development and the lake's relatively deep basin—depths in main channels exceed 200 feet. The swimming area is shallower and marked with buoys, making it appropriate for families, casual swimmers, and children. The encircling tree-lined banks and ridgeline vistas give the beach a scenic, almost mountain-lake aesthetic uncommon in the rolling hills of Middle Tennessee.
The park's offerings extend well beyond the swimming beach. A full-service marina offers boat and pontoon rentals; fishing piers host anglers targeting largemouth bass, walleye, saugeye, and crappie; and an extensive trail network winds through surrounding forest. A campground with electric hookups and picnic areas are on-site, and the atmosphere is firmly family-oriented and outdoor-recreation-focused. Center Hill Lake attracts campers, boaters, and hikers as much as beachgoers, making Edgar Evins one of the most well-rounded state parks in Tennessee.
No food concessions operate directly at the beach, but a camp store is available at the campground and the town of Smithville (roughly 12 miles west on TN-56) has restaurants and grocery stores. Restrooms and changing facilities are available within the park. Day-use parking fees apply during the peak summer season. From Nashville, the park is approximately a 75-minute drive via I-40 East and TN-56, with the entrance on Edgar Evins State Park Road near Silver Point. The swimming area operates primarily from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Amenities
- Designated swimming area
- Boat rentals
- Fishing piers
- Campground
- Hiking trails
- Picnic areas
- Marina
Good to know
- Best for
- families, swimmers, fishing, couples, wildlife-watchers
Location
1630 Edgar Evins State Park Rd, Silver Point, TN 38582
36.0829, -85.8022 View on map
Highlights
- Some of Tennessee's clearest inland water, with exceptional blue-green visibility in the lake basin
- Full-service marina with boat and pontoon rentals for exploring the lake's limestone coves
- Scenic limestone bluffs and forested ridgelines framing the park's swimming area
- Campground, hiking trails, and fishing piers make Edgar Evins an all-day outdoor destination
Tips for visiting
- Day-use parking fees apply in peak season—check Tennessee State Parks for current rates before visiting
- Book marina boat rentals in advance for summer weekends; pontoon availability is limited and fills early
- Water clarity is typically at its best in May and early June before summer algae growth intensifies
- Smithville, about 12 miles west on TN-56, has the nearest restaurants and grocery stores for supplies
- The Marina View Trail offers shaded walking on hot days and takes under an hour to complete
When to visit
May through September for swimming and boating; late May and early June offer the clearest water conditions and smaller crowds before peak summer begins. Weekday visits provide a quieter beach experience.
Frequently asked questions
Is Center Hill Lake water safe for swimming?
Yes. Center Hill Lake is one of the clearest TVA reservoirs in Tennessee, and the designated swimming area within Edgar Evins State Park is suitable for recreational swimming during summer. No lifeguard is posted, so swimmers are responsible for their own safety.
Can visitors rent boats at Edgar Evins State Park?
Yes. The park's marina offers pontoon boat, fishing boat, and kayak rentals. Availability is highest on weekday mornings; summer weekends—especially in July and August—often see limited availability, so advance contact is recommended.
Is there camping at Edgar Evins State Park?
Yes. The park has a campground with electric hookups, restrooms, and shower facilities. Reservations are strongly recommended for summer weekends and holiday periods and can be made through Tennessee State Parks.
What fish species can be caught in Center Hill Lake?
Center Hill Lake is known for largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, saugeye, crappie, and catfish. A valid Tennessee fishing license is required for all anglers aged 13 and older.
How far is Edgar Evins State Park from Nashville?
Approximately 60 miles and a 75-minute drive via I-40 East and TN-56, with the park entrance on Edgar Evins State Park Road in Silver Point, DeKalb County.