Nashville's Closest oasis - Center hill lake/caney fork river

Only an hour outside of Nashville lies a beautiful, secluded, small slice of heaven. This rural oasis is less than 60 miles from the big city, and it feels like you're in another part of the world. Fishing, camping, hiking, canoeing and kayaking - if any of these strike your fancy, you might need a visit.

We took the camper and stayed in the quiet Long Branch Campground right on the Caney Fork River near the Center Hill dam. We enjoyed a few hilly runs - one up and over the dam and the other on the county road out of the campground, which we only saw a few cars pass us. This road winds down by the river giving you wonderful views.

On a Saturday, we had a pocket of good weather and took the kayak out from the campground and kayaked down the Caney for about 4 miles. We fished and soaked in the scenery. There are a few local places to canoe or kayak down the river which I would highly recommend for a relaxing day or hire a local fishing guide for the best trout fishing around!

Favorite places to eat while at Center Hill/Caney Fork:

El Lago - delicious Mexican at the marina right on the water

The Big Rock Market BBQ - an unassuming gas station with one of the most precious shops and best food around!

We also drove into Smithville which has the closest Walmart (all the shopping) and explored downtown and saw the dedications to famous country stars Aaron Tippin (who is from Smithville) and John Rodgers (a long time resident). They both had the cutest little alleys dedicated to them - so be sure to see both If you stop by here. We also ate at Singer's Landing and had some delish brick oven pizza and great wings. FYI they have karaoke on Saturday nights starting at 8. We scooted out an hour too early for that.

If you're close to Nashville, making this short trip is a total must! It's the perfect getaway - especially In the summer - from the big city!