Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Campbellsville, Kentucky to Kimball, Tennessee

If you're planning a road trip from Campbellsville, Kentucky to Kimball, Tennessee, there are plenty of worthwhile stops along the way that you might not expect. The total driving distance is about 191 miles and should take you around 3 hours and 30 minutes without any stops. However, it’s highly recommended that you take your time on this journey to enjoy the scenic views and discover some interesting places.

The halfway point on this road trip is Cookeville, TN, which is about 97 miles from Campbellsville and 94 miles from Kimball. Cookeville is a charming town that offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and parks, making it a great place to stop for lunch. With that said, let's explore five unexpected places to stop on this drive!

1. Mammoth Cave National Park

Mammoth Cave National Park is located about 25 miles southwest of Campbellsville, KY. It's home to the world's longest known cave system, with over 400 miles of explored cave passages. Visitors can take guided tours of the caves, explore hiking trails above ground, or enjoy a picnic in the park. One of the most popular tours is the Historic Tour, which takes visitors on a 2-hour journey through the cave's most impressive and historic areas.

If you're looking for a bite to eat in the area, visit Mammoth Cave Hotel, which offers a variety of options like sandwiches, salads, and burgers.

2. Dale Hollow Lake

Dale Hollow Lake is a beautiful scenic spot that's only a 50-minute drive from Cookeville, TN. This lake is one of the most picturesque in Tennessee, with crystal clear water and over 27,000 acres of surface area. Visitors can go boating, fishing, kayaking, or even swimming in designated areas. There are several marinas where you can rent boats or jet skis.

After spending time on the lake, check out Ollie's Place, a family-owned restaurant that offers delicious southern comfort food.

3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Located on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The park is famous for its diverse wildlife, hiking trails, and stunning vistas. You can explore the park by car on the scenic drives, go on a hike, or see the park's historical buildings.

If you're looking for a place to eat in the park, stop at the Smoky Mountain Brewery in Gatlinburg, which offers local beers and pub fare.

4. Lost Sea Adventure

The Lost Sea Adventure is located in Sweetwater, TN, and is only a short drive from Kimball. It's the largest underground lake in America and is home to a variety of unique aquatic life. Visitors can take a guided tour of the cavern, which includes a boat ride on the lake. There's even a glass bottom boat option for those who want to see the lake's marine life up close.

When you're done with the tour, head over to the Lost Sea Restaurant for some southern-style meals like catfish and fried chicken.

5. Rock City Gardens

Rock City Gardens is a unique attraction located about 25 minutes from downtown Chattanooga. The attraction features a 4,100-foot walking trail that takes visitors through a natural canyon, over a swinging bridge, and past unique rock formations. Once you get to the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of seven states.

End your road trip by having lunch at the Rock City Gardens Café, which serves sandwiches, salads, and a variety of southern dishes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you're looking for an adventurous and scenic road trip, consider driving from Campbellsville, Kentucky to Kimball, Tennessee. The route takes you through some of the most beautiful spots in Kentucky and Tennessee, and there are plenty of unexpected places to stop and explore. From Mammoth Cave National Park to Rock City Gardens, each stop offers something unique and unforgettable. So, pack up the car, grab your map, and hit the road for a trip of a lifetime!