Ready to add a little adventure to your life or just want to get out of the house?
When fresh air is what you crave, there are endless ways to enjoy the outdoors right in Nashville's backyard. Middle Tennessee is lush with parks to explore, many within just a quick 3-hour road trip from the city (or much less).
600 James Robertson Parkway Nashville, TN 37243
Escape the commotion of downtown by taking a relaxing walk through the 11-acre park. It's the perfect spot to bring some friends for a picnic or a game of frisbee.
(166+ miles) - 1435 John Howell Road Pocahontas, TN 38061
The swampy areas and lush vegetation around this park allow for the best close up views of wildlife, waterfowl, and fish. Enjoy camping, hiking, bird-watching, mountain biking, fishing, paddling, and swimming in the warmer months. Free entry to the park. Visit their website for campsite rates and other activities.
(33+ miles) - 328 Cedar Forest Rd. Lebanon, TN 37090
If you are looking to get away for a little while, check out the 117 campsites located here (RVs allowed) or rent a cabin to stay at this beautiful park. Or just take a day trip -- this park has eight miles worth of hiking trails. Free entry to the park.
(72+ miles) - 390 Cummins Falls Lane Cookeville, TN 38501
Getting to the falls or the gorge definitely isn't a beginners hike, but if you can handle rugged terrain and sometimes steep climbing -- the payoff is so worth it! Access to the base of the falls is $6. More on what to expect here!
(46+ miles) - 401 Old Dunbar Cave Road Clarksville, TN 37043
With different trails ranging from light to strenuous you can choose whichever suits your preference. The most magical aspect of this park is that you can purchase tickets to take a tour of the Dunbar Cave and witness the sacred symbols carved into the walls as well as rare wildlife that lives within.
(110+ miles) 2009 Village Camp Road Spencer, TN 38585
One of Tennessee's largest state parks. See nature at its finest with trails, streams, gorges, and multiple waterfalls (including the largest in all of TN). There's a really cool bridge to cross -- very Indiana Jones. Camping/lodging options available. Free entry to the park.
(151+ miles) 964 Flat Fork Road Wartburg, TN 37887
Known for its rich wildlife and amazing foliage in the fall, the beauty of this park is unmatched. Hike on any of the multiple trails around the park and take in the view of these gorgeous waterfalls.
(18+ miles) 1640 Cedar Hill Road Kingston Springs, TN 37082
This lowkey natural paradise is an awesome place to hike, fish, or grab your kayak to experience the park from the water.
(51+ miles) 4209 Nashville HWY Chapel Hill, TN 37034
If you are looking for a more naturally historic experience, this park is the place for you. Golf, fish, hike, or go for a swim at this stunning park. Free entry to the park.
4000 Burgess Falls Drive
This park features four cascading waterfalls plunging from 250 feet collectively. They have window cliff hiking that require some effort, so be prepared to put your back into it!
(25+ miles) 2910 Hobson Pike Hermitage, TN 37076
For the thrill seekers, grab some friends and check out this park's rentable 50-foot tall adventure course. If heights aren't your style there are several hiking and biking trails all over the park, and a beach area for a swimming.
(35+ miles) 1020 Jackson Hill Road Burns, TN 37029
This natural oasis is located only 40 minutes from downtown Nashville. The 3,850 acre park has three different lakes to swim or paddle on. Soak up the sun at the beach or on a hike and afterwards you can rent a room at the newly renovated Lodge at Montgomery Bell for a night of peaceful rest and relaxation after a full day of fun!
(64+ miles) 732 Stone Fort Drive Manchester, TN 37355
The main hiking trail through this park shows off the extraordinary scenery. It is also where you can view the original entrance of the fort that faces the exact spot on the horizon where the sun rises on the summer solstice.
Ready to grab your hiking boots and get some of that fresh air and adventure? LFG!
Find more State Parks here!
