Things to do nearOld Hickory Lake

Old Hickory Lake was created in 1954 when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers completed Old Hickory Dam on the Cumberland River. The resulting reservoir stretches roughly 97 miles of shoreline across Sumner, Davidson, and Wilson counties, forming one of Middle Tennessee's most accessible and well-used recreational lakes.

Anglers are drawn here year-round by healthy populations of largemouth bass, sauger, crappie, and channel catfish. The lake's varied structure, from open water to submerged timber, creates ideal habitat. Beyond fishing, boating and kayaking are the defining activities, with multiple marinas offering slips, rentals, and fuel.

The surrounding shoreline holds parks, picnic areas, and boat ramps managed by the Corps of Engineers, giving families and day-trippers easy access at no cost. Nearby, Percy Priest Lake offers a similar experience south of Nashville for those wanting to explore more of the region's reservoir system.

Old Hickory Lake sits close enough to Nashville that a morning on the water can easily pair with an afternoon in the city, making it a natural escape for residents and visitors alike who want open water without a long drive.