TOP 30 Best Outdoor recreation opportunities in Tennessee

Welcome to Big Oak Cove Recreation Area, a serene natural haven nestled in the heart of Tellico Plains, Tennessee. Situated amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Appalachian Mountains, our park serves as an ideal escape for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're looking to unwind amidst the towering oaks, explore scenic trails, or enjoy a family picnic, Big Oak Cove offers a diverse array of activities for all ages. Visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquility of the great outdoors with our well-maintained hiking paths and picturesque viewpoints. The park is also a hotspot for birdwatching, providing opportunities to spot a variety of native bird species. Our picnic areas are perfect for family gatherings, offering clean facilities and ample space for relaxation.

Welcome to Knoxville Recreation Programs, your premier destination for outdoor fun and community engagement in the heart of Knoxville, Tennessee. Conveniently located at 917 East 5th Avenue, our park offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, providing a perfect setting for relaxation, recreation, and connection with nature. At Knoxville Recreation Programs, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse array of activities and amenities designed to cater to all ages and interests. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll along our scenic walking trails, engage in a friendly game of basketball or tennis, or simply unwind with a picnic in our lush green spaces, you'll find something to love here.

The Wooded Trail System at Union University is a serene park located in Jackson, Tennessee, United States. This beautiful institution offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature with its winding pathways through lush forests. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, this trail system has something for everyone. Take in the sights and sounds of the surrounding wildlife as you explore this hidden gem in the heart of Tennessee. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the beauty of the Wooded Trail System at Union University.

Wolf River Nature Area is a tranquil park and tourist attraction located at 7014 Wolf River Boulevard in Germantown, Tennessee, United States. This beautiful natural area offers visitors the opportunity to explore the diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes of the Wolf River. With hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for birdwatching and photography, Wolf River Nature Area is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Come and experience the beauty of the great outdoors at this peaceful and serene park.

Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Pavilion is a tranquil retreat nestled in the mountains of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, offering a serene escape in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With a capacity for up to 70 guests, this pavilion provides a covered eating area and multiple grills, perfect for hosting a party or family gathering. Surrounded by the diverse plant and animal life of the park, visitors can enjoy the picturesque scenery year-round, whether it's the vibrant wildflowers in spring or the colorful foliage in fall. Located at an elevation of 1,700 feet, Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Pavilion boasts a moderate climate, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and more. The park also preserves a rich cultural history of Southern Appalachia, with over 90 historic structures that tell the stories of the people who once inhabited these mountains.

Backbone Rock Campground, located at 10585-10711 Tennessee 133 in Shady Valley, Tennessee, is a small and picturesque campground nestled along Beaverdam Creek at an elevation of 2,100 feet. Although the campground has closed for the 2023 season, it is a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the nearby Backbone Rock tunnel and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. With 10 campsites, including two double sites, Backbone Rock Campground offers a peaceful and serene setting for camping and lodging. The campground features flush toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern holders at each site. Visitors can also take advantage of the adjacent reservable pavilion, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, for group events and retreats.

Johnson Road Park is a picturesque and serene park located at 2970 Johnson Road in Germantown, Tennessee, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages, including walking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and lush green spaces perfect for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors. Whether you're looking to unwind with a leisurely stroll or have a fun-filled day with family and friends, Johnson Road Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Beaman Park Nature Center is a beautiful park located at 5911 Old Hickory Boulevard in Ashland City, Tennessee. This nature center offers visitors the opportunity to explore and enjoy the outdoors in a peaceful and serene setting. With miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and educational programs, Beaman Park Nature Center is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and families looking to connect with the natural world. Come discover the beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem in the heart of Tennessee.

Marcella Vivrette Smith Park is a stunning 400-acre park located at 1825 Wilson Pike in Brentwood, Tennessee. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its lush green spaces, scenic walking trails, and picturesque picnic areas. The park is named after Marcella Vivrette Smith, a local philanthropist who dedicated her life to preserving the natural beauty of the area. Whether you're looking to relax in nature, go for a hike, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll, Marcella Vivrette Smith Park is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

River Park is a picturesque and serene destination located at 1100 Knox Valley Drive in Brentwood, Tennessee, United States. This park is a popular tourist attraction known for its beautiful river views, lush greenery, and recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, fishing, and birdwatching in this peaceful natural setting. With its convenient location and scenic surroundings, River Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

Gee Creek Trail is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located on Gee Creek Road in Delano, Tennessee, United States. This stunning natural setting offers visitors the opportunity to explore a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks. The trail is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels, with options for both leisurely strolls and more challenging hikes. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in nature, enjoy a peaceful picnic, or simply take in the breathtaking views, Gee Creek Trail is the perfect destination for a day of outdoor adventure.

Located in Bumpus Mills, Tennessee, the Bumpus Mills Campground offers a serene and picturesque setting for campers and day visitors to enjoy the beauty of Lake Barkley. With opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography, this campground is the perfect destination for nature lovers. Situated on the upstream section of Lake Barkley, campers can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and spot various bird species, including golden and bald eagles. The campground features 15 sites with water and electric hookups, as well as amenities such as hot showers, a dump station, boat ramp, and public marina.

McCabe Park Community Center is a vibrant and welcoming community center located in Nashville, Tennessee. Situated at 101 46th Avenue North, this institution serves as a hub for various recreational and social activities for residents of all ages. With its spacious park grounds, sports facilities, and meeting rooms, McCabe Park Community Center offers a wide range of programs and events to promote health, wellness, and community engagement. Whether you're looking to join a fitness class, participate in a sports league, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll in the park, this institution has something for everyone. Come visit McCabe Park Community Center and experience the sense of community and connection it fosters in the heart of Nashville.

Anderson Road Day Use in Nashville, Tennessee, United States, is a park offering a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. With a swim beach, picnic tables, grills, a shelter, playgrounds, restrooms, and a boat launch ramp, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The park is affordable at just $5.00 per vehicle per day, making it perfect for families looking for a fun day out. Located near the J. Percy Priest Dam and Lake, Anderson Road Day Use is surrounded by beautiful grasslands and woodlands, as well as the Cedar Glades Natural Area. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the area and spot wildlife and plant species, such as the Tennessee coneflower.

Rogersville Park & Rec Department is a vibrant community hub located at 1101 East Main Street in Rogersville, Tennessee. As a park institution, it offers a wide range of recreational activities and amenities for residents and visitors of all ages to enjoy. From playgrounds and sports fields to walking trails and picnic areas, this department provides opportunities for outdoor fun and relaxation. Whether you're looking to unwind in nature or get active with friends and family, Rogersville Park & Rec Department has something for everyone. Come and explore all that this beautiful park has to offer in the heart of Rogersville.

Cardens Bluff Campground, located in Hampton, Tennessee, United States, offers a peaceful retreat overlooking the stunning Watauga Lake. Situated at nearly 2,000 feet elevation on a peninsula, this campground features 43 tent camping sites with access to a bathhouse with showers and flush toilets. While there are no electrical hookups, the serene surroundings and nearby day use areas for swimming, boating, and fishing make for a memorable outdoor experience. Campground Hosts are available on-site to assist visitors, and the picturesque Watauga Lake, managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority, provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The campground is conveniently located near the Rat Branch Boat Launch and the Shook Branch Swim Area, making it easy for campers to explore the surrounding wilderness areas such as Big Laurel Branch and Pond Mountain.

Howard McVay Park is a charming and picturesque park located at 7335 McVay Road in Germantown, Tennessee. This popular tourist attraction offers a peaceful and serene environment for visitors to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The park features lush greenery, walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground for children. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to read a book or a place to have a fun family outing, Howard McVay Park is the perfect destination. Don't miss the opportunity to visit this lovely park in the heart of Germantown.

Hadley Park Community Center is a vibrant hub of activity located in Nashville, Tennessee. Situated at 1037 28th Avenue North, this institution serves as a gathering place for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together and engage in a variety of programs and activities. From fitness classes to educational workshops, sports leagues to arts and crafts, there is something for everyone at Hadley Park Community Center. With a focus on promoting community wellness and unity, this center plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for residents in the surrounding area. Come visit Hadley Park Community Center and see for yourself the positive impact it has on the Nashville community.

Thunder Rock Campground is located in Copperhill, Tennessee, United States and offers a variety of camping and lodging options for visitors. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors, hike through scenic landscapes, or simply relax in a peaceful park setting, Thunder Rock Campground has something for everyone. With over 3,600 facilities and 103,000 individual sites available across the country, Recreation.gov makes it easy to plan your next adventure. From camping and hiking to wildlife viewing and ranger-led activities, there are endless opportunities to explore and experience the beauty of the USA.

Owen Bradley Park is a charming and relaxing oasis located at 1 Music Square East in Nashville, Tennessee. This beautiful park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, scenic walking paths, and tranquil water features, Owen Bradley Park is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to read a book, have a picnic, or simply take a leisurely stroll, this park has something for everyone. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Owen Bradley Park and experience its serene atmosphere for yourself.

Hermitage Community Center is a vibrant hub of activity located at 3720 James Kay Lane in Nashville, Tennessee. This center serves as a gathering place for residents of the Hermitage neighborhood, offering a wide range of programs and services for people of all ages. From fitness classes and sports leagues to arts and crafts workshops, there is something for everyone at Hermitage Community Center. The facility also features a gymnasium, meeting rooms, and outdoor recreational spaces. Whether you're looking to get active, learn something new, or simply connect with your neighbors, Hermitage Community Center is the place to be.

Stones River Bend Park is a picturesque park located along the Stones River Greenway in Nashville, Tennessee. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with beautiful walking and biking trails, scenic river views, and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Whether you're looking to relax in nature, enjoy a picnic with family and friends, or explore the local wildlife, Stones River Bend Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. With its convenient location and stunning natural beauty, this park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Tennessee's great outdoors.

Laguardo is a campground, lodging, and park located at 7680 Highway 109 North in Lebanon, Tennessee, United States. As part of Recreation.gov, we offer over 3,600 facilities and 103,000 individual sites across the country for you to explore and enjoy. Whether you're into camping, hiking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, or monument tours, there's something for everyone at Laguardo. Plan your next trip with us and discover new experiences, historic landmarks, and outdoor escapes near you or across the country. With tools and resources to help you manage your trip details and access special events, Laguardo is your go-to destination for adventure. Explore America's outdoor and cultural destinations with us and bring home a story to remember.

Located at 493 Jones Mill Road in La Vergne, Tennessee, the Poole Knobs Campground is a peaceful lakeside retreat nestled in the lush green hills of Tennessee. This campground offers 87 spacious and shady campsites, as well as a larger group camping site for family gatherings. Amenities include drinking water, flush toilets, hot showers, and a boat ramp for easy access to the sparkling waters of J. Percy Priest Lake. The campground is surrounded by 19,087 acres of woodlands and grasslands, including the Cedar Glades Natural Area, which is home to a diverse array of wildlife and plant species. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities such as fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The lake is teeming with various fish species, providing ample opportunities for anglers of all ages.

Welcome to the East Lakeshore Trail Morganton Trailhead, a serene and picturesque gateway to nature located on the East Coast Tellico Parkway in Greenback, Tennessee. Nestled along the beautiful shores of Tellico Lake, our park offers outdoor enthusiasts an opportunity to explore the scenic wonders of the region. Whether you're an avid hiker, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the East Lakeshore Trail provides a variety of trails that cater to all levels of experience. Immerse yourself in the lush greenery, enjoy the tranquil lake views, and discover the diverse wildlife that calls this area home.

Welcome to Citico Recreation Area, your perfect getaway nestled in the heart of Vonore, Tennessee. Located at 302 Mount Pleasant Road, our scenic destination offers a serene escape for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. As a premier campground, lodging, and park facility, Citico Recreation Area provides a diverse array of outdoor activities and accommodations to suit every visitor's needs. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region, with lush forests, tranquil streams, and breathtaking views. Our well-equipped campground offers spacious sites for tents and RVs, complete with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. For those seeking a more rustic experience, our charming lodging options provide a cozy retreat surrounded by nature.

Welcome to Campbell County Park, a serene and picturesque destination located at 975 Demory Road, LaFollette, Tennessee. Nestled in the heart of the scenic Tennessee landscape, our park offers a perfect escape for nature lovers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts. Discover a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy a variety of recreational activities amidst lush greenery and stunning natural beauty. At Campbell County Park, you'll find well-maintained walking trails, perfect for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike. Our picnic areas provide an ideal setting for family gatherings, with plenty of space for children to play and explore. Whether you're looking to enjoy a quiet afternoon or engage in outdoor sports, our park has something for everyone.

Located at 1797A Cheatham Dam Road in Ashland City, Tennessee, the Cheatham Dam Right Bank institution offers a variety of amenities including an ATM, financial services, and a beautiful park known as Right Bank Recreation Area. This family-friendly park is situated along the Cumberland River, offering a relaxing atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. With four group shelters available for reservation, including Cottonwood, Beachside, Willey's, and Red Bud, guests can gather for picnics and outdoor activities. The park features old trees providing shade, playgrounds, horseshoe pits, boat launching ramps, volleyball courts, and more. Nearby attractions such as the Ashland City Bicentennial Trail, Riverbluff Park, and Cheatham Lake Wildlife Management Area offer additional recreational opportunities. With a temperate climate allowing for year-round activities, Right Bank Recreation Area is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Make a reservation by calling 615-792-5697 and start planning your next adventure at this scenic park in Tennessee.

Welcome to McNabb Creek Group Campground, a serene haven nestled in the heart of Tellico Plains, Tennessee. Located on North River Road, our campground offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal destination for families, friends, and solo travelers alike. At McNabb Creek Group Campground, we are dedicated to helping you craft unforgettable memories. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, our partnership with Recreation.gov ensures that you have access to over 3,600 facilities and 103,000 individual sites nationwide. From camping and hiking to horseback riding and wildlife viewing, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Welcome to Halls Community Park, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Knoxville, Tennessee. Located at 6983 Recreation Lane, our park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational amenities for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to unwind in a peaceful setting. As part of the vibrant Knox County, which boasts a rich history dating back to its creation in 1792, Halls Community Park is proud to contribute to the community's tradition of providing outstanding public spaces. Spanning a picturesque area, the park offers a variety of facilities and activities to suit all ages. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll along our scenic walking trails, host a picnic with friends and family, or engage in a friendly game on our sports fields, Halls Community Park is your go-to destination. Our well-maintained playgrounds ensure fun and safety for children, while our open green spaces are perfect for relaxation and connecting with nature.