Percy Priest Lake is a peaceful spot for those who love nature, adventure, and relaxation. It’s a beautiful place to get away from the city’s noise. The lake’s beauty and many activities make it a great place to visit.
There’s lots to do here, like water sports, hiking, and exploring nature. The lake’s calm makes it perfect for unwinding and having fun.
Key Takeaways
- Discover the natural beauty of Percy Priest Lake
- Enjoy water sports and activities on the lake
- Explore the surrounding natural areas and hiking trails
- Relax in the serene atmosphere of the lake
- Experience a range of recreational activities
Discovering Percy Priest Lake: Nashville’s Natural Retreat
Percy Priest Lake is a natural gem just outside Nashville. It was formed in 1967 and covers 14,200 acres. With 213 miles of shoreline, it’s perfect for many outdoor activities.
The History and Formation of Percy Priest Lake
The J. Percy Priest Dam on the Stones River created Percy Priest Lake. It’s named after Congressman J. Percy Priest. The lake is a water reservoir and a wildlife haven, attracting visitors for fun.
Getting to Percy Priest Lake and Best Times to Visit
To reach Percy Priest Lake, take I-40 East from Nashville. Exit at Highway 171 or Highway 70. Spring and fall are best for outdoor fun. Summer is great for water sports.
Overview of Recreation Areas and Access Points
Percy Priest Lake has many spots for fun, like Anderson Road Recreational Area and Couchville Cedar Glade State Natural Area. These places offer camping, picnicking, and lake access. Here’s a quick guide to the main areas and what they offer.
| Recreation Area | Facilities |
|---|---|
| Anderson Road Recreational Area | Camping, Picnicking, Boating, Fishing |
| Couchville Cedar Glade State Natural Area | Hiking, Wildlife Viewing, Picnicking |
| Long Hunter State Park | Hiking, Camping, Fishing, Boating |
Percy Priest Lake Nearby Attractions for Nature Lovers
The area around Percy Priest Lake is full of natural beauty. It has many attractions perfect for those who love nature. Visitors can see lush forests and open glades, each offering unique adventures and places to relax.
Long Hunter State Park: Trails and Wildlife
Long Hunter State Park is a top spot for outdoor fans. It has many trails for hiking and biking. These trails are for all skill levels, from easy to hard.
The park is also a great place to see wildlife. You can spot deer, turkey, and many birds. It’s perfect for nature watching and taking photos.
Couchville Cedar Glade State Natural Area
The Couchville Cedar Glade State Natural Area is a key attraction near Percy Priest Lake. It protects a special cedar glade ecosystem. This area has open spaces with cedar trees and wildflowers.
It’s a great place for a walk or a picnic. The scenery is beautiful and peaceful. It’s also interesting for botanists and nature lovers because of its unique plants.
Anderson Road Recreational Area
The Anderson Road Recreational Area is perfect for fun activities. It has spots for picnics, fishing, and boating. It’s well-kept and offers lovely views of the lake.
J. Percy Priest Dam and Visitor Center
The J. Percy Priest Dam and Visitor Center is both educational and interesting. The visitor center tells the story of the dam’s history and the local environment. You can also see the dam and learn about its water management role.
In summary, Percy Priest Lake and its surroundings have lots to offer nature lovers. There are state parks, natural areas, and recreational spots for everyone. Whether you like hiking, watching wildlife, or just relaxing, Percy Priest Lake is a great place to visit.
Water Activities and Recreation at Percy Priest Lake
Percy Priest Lake is a paradise for water lovers. It has many activities for all ages. The lake’s big waters are perfect for fun and relaxation.
Boating and Fishing Opportunities
Boating and fishing are top choices at Percy Priest Lake. The lake is full of fish, attracting many anglers.
Popular Fishing Spots and Species
Fishing hotspots include the J. Percy Priest Dam and coves. You can catch largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish here.
Boat Ramps and Marina Services
The lake has many boat ramps and marinas. They offer boat rentals, fuel, and maintenance. Some marinas even have guided fishing tours.
Swimming Areas and Beaches
Percy Priest Lake has swimming spots and beaches. They are great for families and are safe for swimming.
Water Sports and Equipment Rentals
The lake is also great for water sports. You can try jet skiing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing.
Jet Ski and Kayak Rentals
Rentals around the lake offer jet skis and kayaks. It’s a fun way to enjoy the lake without your own gear.
Paddleboarding and Sailing
Paddleboarding and sailing are also popular. The lake’s calm waters are perfect for these sports. You can rent equipment to try them out.
Percy Priest Lake has something for everyone. It’s a fantastic place for outdoor fun and adventure.
Hiking and Outdoor Adventures Near Percy Priest Lake
The area around Percy Priest Lake is perfect for hiking and outdoor fun. There are many trails and greenways. Visitors can enjoy nature and see the beautiful views of the area.
Day Loop Trail at Long Hunter State Park
The Day Loop Trail at Long Hunter State Park is a 4.8-mile loop. It’s a moderate hike. You’ll see forests and wetlands and might see local wildlife.
Trail Details: Distance – 4.8 miles, Difficulty – Moderate, Features – Forests, Wetlands
Volunteer Trail for Experienced Hikers
The Volunteer Trail is for those who love a challenge. It’s a 10-mile trail with amazing views of the lake and landscape.
Trail Details: Distance – 10 miles, Difficulty – Challenging, Features – Scenic views of Percy Priest Lake
Percy Priest Greenway and Bike Paths
The Percy Priest Greenway is great for biking, walking, and jogging. It connects parks and recreational areas. It’s a fantastic way to see the area.
Wildlife Viewing and Bird Watching Spots
Percy Priest Lake is a paradise for wildlife lovers. You can see many bird species and other animals like deer and rabbits. It’s a perfect spot for bird watching.
| Activity | Location | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Hiking | Long Hunter State Park | Day Loop Trail and Volunteer Trail |
| Biking | Percy Priest Greenway | Multi-use path for biking and walking |
| Bird Watching | Around Percy Priest Lake | Variety of bird species |
Family-Friendly Activities and Nearby Amenities
The area around Percy Priest Lake is full of fun for families. You can find waterpark fun, picnic spots, and outdoor games. It’s a great place for both kids and adults to enjoy.
Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort and Waterpark
Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort and Waterpark is a hit with families. It has a waterpark with slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. There’s also a beach, picnic pavilions, and places to stay.
Best Picnic Areas and Pavilions Around the Lake
Percy Priest Lake has many picnic spots and pavilions. The Anderson Road Recreational Area and Couchville Cedar Glade State Natural Area are top picks. They have picnic tables, grills, and beautiful views.
Kid-Friendly Attractions and Playgrounds
Kids will love the attractions and playgrounds around Percy Priest Lake. The lake’s parks have playgrounds, sports fields, and trails. They’re perfect for family fun.
Nearby Dining Options and Local Eateries
After a day out, families can grab a bite to eat. There are many dining spots nearby. You can find casual places and fancy restaurants to suit everyone’s taste and budget.
| Attraction | Location | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort and Waterpark | Near Percy Priest Lake | Waterpark, beach, picnic pavilions, accommodations |
| Anderson Road Recreational Area | Percy Priest Lake | Picnic tables, grills, playground |
| Couchville Cedar Glade State Natural Area | Percy Priest Lake | Picnic tables, scenic views, walking trails |
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Percy Priest Lake Adventure
Percy Priest Lake is a treasure trove of activities and sights. It’s perfect for those who love the outdoors and families. You can find something fun for everyone, from Percy Priest Lake sightseeing to Percy Priest Lake activities.
Boating, fishing, and swimming are just the start. You can also explore Long Hunter State Park and Couchville Cedar Glade State Natural Area. The lake’s beauty and fun activities make it great for a day out or a longer trip.
Plan your visit to Percy Priest Lake wisely. Think about the season and what you want to do. Whether you’re after calm or excitement, Percy Priest Lake has it all. It’s the perfect place to make memories that last a lifetime.