A blanket, a cooler full of homemade sandwiches, a gentle breeze, and a lake view that stretches out to the horizon—that’s my idea of a perfect afternoon. Spending time outdoors has always been part of my routine, and when I think about places to unwind, enjoy a meal, and soak up Tennessee’s natural beauty, lakeside picnic spots top the list. The best picnic spots by the lake in Tennessee combine stunning scenery, accessible facilities, and the kind of calm that makes food taste even better.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet cove where you can listen to the water lap at the shore or a full-fledged state park with pavilions and grills, Tennessee has no shortage of options. I’ve traveled all across the state—from the Smoky Mountains to the western wetlands—and each lake I’ve visited brings its own character and charm. Over time, I’ve found my go-to places for peaceful meals outdoors, and I’ve discovered new ones worth sharing too.
Here’s a look at what I consider the best picnic spots by the lake in Tennessee, along with tips to make the most of your lakeside lunch.
Norris Dam State Park – Norris Lake
Norris Lake is one of the clearest and most picturesque lakes in East Tennessee, and Norris Dam State Park offers several designated picnic areas that make it easy to enjoy a day here. I often head to the Lakeside Picnic Area near the dam. It’s shaded by large hardwood trees, and the picnic tables are spaced out enough to give each group privacy.
There’s a breeze almost every afternoon, which keeps things cool, and the lake views are incredible. After lunch, I like to take a short hike on the nearby Songbird Trail, or just walk along the shoreline. The calm waters and forest backdrop create the kind of serenity that makes me want to stay all day.
Radnor Lake State Park – Nashville Area
While Radnor Lake is technically a natural area and swimming or boating isn’t allowed, the surrounding woods and water views make it one of the best picnic spots by the lake in Tennessee for those who love peaceful, no-frills nature escapes. I usually bring a backpack picnic and hike to one of the benches or overlook areas along the Lake Trail.
The park is filled with wildlife—deer, turtles, herons, and even otters—and it’s a quiet spot where you won’t hear anything but birdsong and rustling leaves. It’s a carry-in, carry-out park, so I always make sure to pack out all my trash. This is more of a scenic snack stop than a large gathering place, but it’s one of my favorites.
Reelfoot Lake State Park – Northwest Tennessee
Reelfoot Lake is an ecological wonder. Formed by earthquakes in the early 1800s, it’s filled with cypress trees and a rich variety of birds and aquatic life. There are several well-maintained picnic spots around the lake, but I prefer the one near the visitor center.
This area has picnic tables, restrooms, and a boardwalk that leads you right over the water. After a relaxing meal, I usually take a walk or rent a canoe to explore the shallow channels among the trees. Reelfoot is ideal for photographers and birdwatchers too—it’s not uncommon to spot bald eagles circling overhead.
Panther Creek State Park – Cherokee Lake
Located near Morristown, Panther Creek State Park hugs the shoreline of Cherokee Lake and offers multiple scenic areas perfect for lakeside picnicking. My favorite is the picnic shelter near the boat ramp, where you can watch anglers head out onto the water and take in the wide lake views.
There’s a playground nearby, making it a great choice for families with kids. Trails weave through the park if you want to work off lunch with a hike. I usually bring a camping chair to sit right at the water’s edge when the picnic tables fill up on busy weekends.
Edgar Evins State Park – Center Hill Lake
Center Hill Lake is one of the prettiest reservoirs in Middle Tennessee, surrounded by steep hills and deep blue water. Edgar Evins State Park sits on the northern shore and features picnic areas with built-in grills and panoramic views.
The park’s terrain is a little more rugged, with wooden walkways and steps leading to secluded platforms. I always pack a full meal when I come here—something about the lake’s dramatic beauty deserves more than just a granola bar and a drink. The overlook near the visitor center is a great place to eat while enjoying a near-aerial view of the water.
Pickwick Landing State Park – Pickwick Lake
Pickwick Lake is a fantastic spot for a day-long family outing. Pickwick Landing State Park includes several shaded picnic areas right by the water. One of my go-to spots is the picnic shelter near the swimming beach—it has grills, water access, and space for both relaxing and playing.
After eating, I like to walk down to the marina and watch the boats go by. The gentle slope of the land and the wide-open views make it feel spacious and welcoming. It’s also one of the few parks where you can plan a picnic followed by an afternoon swim.
Fall Creek Falls State Park – Fall Creek Lake
Though better known for its waterfalls, Fall Creek Falls State Park also has a peaceful lake area that’s perfect for picnics. The picnic sites near Fall Creek Lake are surrounded by shade trees, and you’ll often hear songbirds echoing through the woods.
The park also rents paddleboats and canoes, which makes it easy to enjoy a full day here. After lunch, I usually explore the suspension bridge nearby or take a trail down to one of the waterfalls. Even though it’s a popular destination, the lake area never feels overcrowded.
Tims Ford State Park – Tims Ford Lake
Tims Ford Lake has some of the clearest water in the state, and Tims Ford State Park is a prime location for a quiet picnic. I usually head to the Lakeview Picnic Area, which offers several tables just steps from the shoreline.
What makes this one special is the peaceful vibe—there’s just enough wind in the trees to keep you cool, and the water sparkles in the afternoon sun. It’s also a great spot for paddleboarding, kayaking, or even fishing from the shore. On more than one occasion, I’ve ended up spending the entire day here unintentionally, thanks to how relaxing it is.
Old Hickory Lake – Rockland Recreation Area
Old Hickory Lake is a convenient choice for folks in the Nashville area. The Rockland Recreation Area offers grassy spots right beside the lake, with plenty of picnic tables and grills. I’ve often met friends here for spontaneous lunches or weekend gatherings.
One of the biggest perks is how accessible it is—paved paths, large parking lots, and nearby restrooms make it easy for families or groups to settle in for a full afternoon. Plus, the water is calm enough to launch a kayak or let kids splash around at the edges.
Boone Lake – Winged Deer Park
In the Tri-Cities area, Boone Lake provides a lovely backdrop at Winged Deer Park. This park combines open grassy areas, shaded picnic shelters, and a walking path along the lake. It’s a community gathering place but still feels spacious and relaxing.
I’ve watched sunsets here that took my breath away, and I can always find a quiet corner away from the main pavilions when I want solitude. It’s also an excellent choice if you’re bringing a large group or need access to sports fields or restrooms.
Picnic Planning Tips
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tips that help me enjoy every picnic to the fullest:
- Bring a tablecloth: Some picnic tables are worn or rough. A simple cloth makes any setup more inviting.
- Pack a cooler smartly: Use frozen water bottles to keep food cold and provide drinks at the same time.
- Add comfort: Camping chairs, throw blankets, and bug spray can turn a quick lunch into a luxurious experience.
- Arrive early: Especially on weekends, the best spots fill up fast.
- Respect the space: Always clean up your area and pack out all trash—even fruit peels or food scraps.
- Think local: I like picking up snacks or sandwiches from local bakeries or delis near each lake. It adds a flavor of the region to my meal.
Final Thoughts
The best picnic spots by the lake in Tennessee aren’t just places to eat—they’re places to pause, reflect, and reconnect with nature. Each lake I’ve visited has offered something unique, from misty mountain reflections to quiet wildlife sightings, and those simple meals shared under open skies have become some of my favorite memories.
Whether you’re planning a romantic afternoon for two or a large family gathering, Tennessee’s lakes provide an unbeatable backdrop. All it takes is a little planning, a packed lunch, and a sense of adventure to enjoy the beauty that’s waiting by the water’s edge.
The next time you’re looking for a refreshing way to spend the day, consider laying out your picnic by one of these lakes. You just might find your new favorite escape—and like me, you’ll keep coming back to the best picnic spots by the lake in Tennessee.