Center Hill Lake

05/04/2026

Whether you’re patrolling the Outer Rim of the Cumberland River or moisture farming near a Corps Lake, remember that the Force is strong with those who prioritize safety. Transform your next outing into a heroic saga with this Jedi-approved directive:

May the 4th be with you when navigating a Corps Lake! To ensure you don’t end up adrift like an escape pod in a meteor shower, defeat the Dark Side with both your trusty lightsaber and a properly buckled Life Jacket! Whether you’re a scruffy-looking nerf herder or a high-ranking Admiral, remember: a Life Jacket is the only “deflector shield” that works in the water. Stay alert, fly casual, and Adventure Responsibly!

Photo Illustration by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Nashville District Public Affairs Office. Image generated using artificial intelligence.

04/13/2026

Trade screen time for sunshine. ☀️ The Cumberland River Basin is officially OPEN for the 2026 season!

From sunrise coffee by the lakeshore to sunset views in the heart of the Southeast, 20,000 miles of scenic rivers and streams are waiting for you. Whether you’re an avid angler or a family looking for a weekend retreat, our 25 premier campgrounds are the perfect home base.

What’s waiting for you:
• 🚣 Boating & Fishing: World-class waters.
• 🥾 Hiking: Explore hidden coves and river gorges.
• 🏕️ Comfort: Modern amenities meets raw beauty.

Don't wait—popular spots fill up 6 months in advance! 👉 Book your escape: recreation.gov

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (April 13, 2026) – As spring warms the Southeast, the Cumberland River Basin is officially open for adventure. Known as one of the regi...

04/07/2026

Stay aware: "Don't attempt to swim, float, or paddle over a low-head dam!

03/17/2026

Training Today for a Safer Tomorrow 🌲🚤
From the classroom to the top of Lookout Mountain, our Nashville District Park Rangers have been busy! Last week, more than 50 rangers from 10 different lakes gathered for our annual Park Ranger Workshop to gear up for the 2026 recreation season.

What goes into being a Ranger?
• Safety First: Critical training in wilderness first aid and visitor assistance.
• Stewardship: Mastering shoreline management and environmental education.
• Innovation: We officially rolled out new, high-tech active hearing protection to keep our team safe from engine and wind noise on the water.

In 2025, our rangers welcomed 23 million visitors across the Cumberland River Basin. As Lt. Col. Guillermo Guandique put it: "Every day you are out there on the front line making sure that the public understands what the water can do."

We are ready to welcome you back to the water! Help us thank our rangers for all they do to "Protect People from Water and Protect Water from People."

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (March 17, 2026) – In preparation for the 2026 recreation season, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Nashville District hosted its annu...

02/27/2026

🌲 Volunteer Campground Hosts Needed 🌊

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Center Hill Lake
📍 Long Branch Campground
📍 Floating Mill Campground

Make a Difference on Center Hill Lake!

Do you love the outdoors and enjoy connecting with people? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking friendly, dependable volunteers to serve as Campground Attendants at Long Branch and Floating Mill Campgrounds.

As the first point of contact for visitors, you’ll help create a fun, safe, and memorable experience for everyone who enjoys Center Hill Lake.

🏕️ What You’ll Receive:
✔️ Complimentary RV site with full hookups during your service term

🔹 What You’ll Do:
• Greet and assist park visitors
• Process payments and sell annual passes
• Collaborate with Park Rangers
• Promote water safety and assist with general park oversight
• Patrol for potential safety hazards

🔹 Who We’re Looking For:
• Couples comfortable engaging with the public
• Friendly, dependable team players
• RV owners suitable for full-time residence

⏱️ Commitment:
• 20+ volunteer hours per week
• Typically 2-3 days per week (depending on holidays) during recreation season

If you’re ready to spend the recreation season serving lakeside and making a positive impact, we’d love to hear from you!

📞 Contact the Center Hill Lake Resource Office at 931-858-3125 to learn more or apply.

02/25/2026

If you fall into cold water, every minute matters. Wearing a life jacket and using the HELP (Heat Escape Lessoning Posture) and Huddle positions protect critical body areas and can slow down loss of heat. Increasing your survival time in cold water. When safety isn’t nearby these positions can retain body heat giving you more time to be rescued.

02/16/2026

Did you know Abraham Lincoln almost drowned as a young boy? Lincoln’s childhood friend, Austin Gollaher claimed that while playing they attempted to cross K**b Creek when Lincoln fell into the water over his head. Lincoln couldn’t swim and was saved when Austin reached for him with a branch and helped him to the shore. Learn proper rescue techniques—you never know who you’ll save.

02/14/2026

Asking a loved one to wear a life jacket is an act of love. ❤️
This Valentine’s Day, remind the ones you love to stay safe by always wearing a life jacket when in, on, or near open water.

02/09/2026

Someone at home is waiting for you. ❤️
Wear your life jacket whenever you’re in, on, or near open water.
If you won’t wear it for yourself, wear it for the people who love you.

02/05/2026

Get ready for Valentine’s Day with Bobber the Water Safety Dog! Share some love with these free Bobber Valentine’s Day cards.

02/04/2026

🚤Good News!

The boat ramp at Center Hill Recreation Area (Ike Park) is now open.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers staff will continue monitoring lake levels, and the ramp will remain open as long as conditions are safe for launching. Visitors are encouraged to use caution and stay aware of changing water conditions while enjoying the lake.

We will share updates if future closures become necessary. Thank you for your patience and cooperation.