Planning a lakeside BBQ in Tennessee is one of my favorite ways to bring friends and family together. There’s something about the combination of fresh air, a sizzling grill, and the peaceful lull of water that turns a regular afternoon into a memorable occasion. With our state’s incredible variety of scenic lakes—from the wide waters of Kentucky Lake to the clear coves of Norris Lake—there are so many ideal spots to set up your grill and enjoy a slow, Southern-style day.
The magic of lakeside gatherings lies in their relaxed nature, but that doesn’t mean they come together without a little forethought. Over time, I’ve learned a lot about what makes these BBQs run smoothly. It’s about more than just showing up with burgers and buns. It’s about preparation, smart packing, safety, and creating an atmosphere everyone can enjoy. Below are my best tips for hosting a lakeside BBQ in Tennessee that will have your guests raving long after the last marshmallow is toasted.
Pick the Right Lakeside Spot
Tennessee is full of lakes, but not every spot is ideal for a BBQ. Some areas allow open flames or portable grills, while others have specific rules about fire use or alcohol. Before heading out, I always check the Tennessee State Parks website or contact the lake’s visitor center to verify regulations.
My personal favorites include spots like Tims Ford State Park, which has designated picnic pavilions with charcoal grills already in place, and Old Hickory Lake, which has several quiet shorelines with tree cover and space for lawn games. Douglas Lake is another excellent option, with multiple boat access points and campgrounds that offer fire rings and tables.
Choosing the right location makes a huge difference, not only for convenience but also for comfort. I look for spots with shade, access to restrooms, and a place where kids and pets can move around freely.
Time It Right for Comfort and Ambiance
The timing of your BBQ can completely shape the experience. In Tennessee, summer afternoons can be steamy, so I usually plan mine for late afternoon leading into early evening. That way, the sun has softened, the golden hour light hits just right across the water, and the bugs haven’t fully come out yet.
Spring and fall are also ideal seasons for lakeside BBQs. The weather is mild, the lake traffic is lighter, and the changing leaves or blooming wildflowers make for a stunning backdrop. I avoid midday setups in July or August unless there’s good tree cover or a canopy—shade can make or break the day.
If your group includes anglers or boaters, coordinate with their plans. I’ve hosted BBQs where people went fishing in the morning and returned hungry and happy by mid-afternoon. It added a sense of rhythm and purpose to the day.
Pack for Function, Not Just Food
One of the most valuable tips for hosting a lakeside BBQ in Tennessee is to pack intentionally. The lake isn’t your backyard—you won’t have everything within arm’s reach. That means planning ahead so you’re not running back to the car or worse, realizing you forgot essentials.
Here’s my go-to checklist:
- Coolers: One for drinks, one for raw meat, and one for sides or desserts. I use color-coded lids so I never mix things up.
- Grill tools: Tongs, spatula, lighter, grill brush, and a meat thermometer are must-haves.
- Trash bags: Never rely on public bins being available or empty. I pack in and pack out.
- Hand wipes and sanitizer: Lakes don’t always have sinks nearby.
- Cutting boards and serving trays: It’s much easier to manage food if you have flat, stable surfaces.
- Shade: A pop-up canopy, a tarp, or even just umbrellas go a long way in making people comfortable.
- Blankets and chairs: I always bring more than I think I’ll need.
Don’t forget sunscreen and bug spray, especially near the water’s edge. Nothing ruins a BBQ faster than a swarm of mosquitos or a sunburned guest.
Keep the Menu Simple and Crowd-Pleasing
Lakeside BBQs call for food that’s easy to grill and fun to eat. I stick with classic items that don’t require a lot of finesse—hamburgers, hot dogs, brats, marinated chicken thighs, and veggie skewers are my go-to options. They’re quick to cook, easy to customize, and a hit with all age groups.
One trick I’ve learned is to pre-season or pre-marinate everything at home. I keep meats in gallon freezer bags and stack them in the cooler so I can go straight from ice to grill. Sides like pasta salad, chips and dip, or watermelon slices require no heating and hold up well in warm weather.
For dessert, s’mores are the obvious winner. If open fires aren’t allowed, I’ve made them using the grill grate or even packed brownie bites and fruit kabobs as a no-mess alternative.
Above all, I avoid complicated recipes or anything that needs constant attention. Simplicity lets me enjoy my own party without hovering over the grill for hours.
Set the Atmosphere with Music and Games
Nothing brings a lakeside BBQ to life like good tunes. I bring a waterproof Bluetooth speaker and keep a playlist ready with upbeat songs that fit the mood—think country, classic rock, and laid-back summer jams. It keeps the energy light and festive.
For entertainment, cornhole boards, Frisbees, paddleball, and inflatable floaties are always a hit. I’ve even brought a floating beer pong table on occasion, which had everyone laughing and playing in the shallows for hours.
Kids love scavenger hunts, bubbles, and skipping rocks. It doesn’t take much to keep them busy at a lake, especially if there’s water access and open space.
Even if it’s just a few chairs circled around with good conversation and a view of the sunset, the right vibe makes everything better.
Embrace the Tennessee Scenery
One thing I never take for granted is the natural beauty of our state. Whether I’m on the shores of Norris Lake or nestled among the trees at Watauga Lake, I try to set up my BBQ in a way that celebrates the view.
I arrange chairs to face the water, hang solar lanterns from trees, and bring along a few string lights to run between tent poles or trees for evening ambience. I’ve found that little touches like this create a welcoming space that encourages people to linger.
Sunset over the lake is something special, especially with a plate of food in hand. I always make sure my camera or phone is ready to snap those golden-hour photos.
Be Mindful of Safety
I never host a BBQ without a solid safety plan. This includes keeping raw meat stored at the correct temperature, monitoring grill flames, and making sure the fire pit (if used) is fully extinguished before leaving.
I also stay aware of water safety, especially if kids are present. I keep a life vest or two on hand, establish clear boundaries for swimming, and keep a first-aid kit close by.
It’s also wise to know the forecast. A surprise storm on a Tennessee lake can roll in fast. I’ve had to pack up quickly and head for shelter more than once. Now, I always have a Plan B—usually an alternate covered spot or vehicle setup that lets the party continue.
Make Clean-Up Easy and Efficient
I’ve learned that if you don’t plan for clean-up, it becomes a stressful scramble. That’s why I bring multiple trash bags (one for recyclables, one for trash, and a spare just in case). I pack all paper plates and napkins into a single tote and keep an empty bin for dirty dishes or grilling tools.
Leftovers are sealed in plastic containers or gallon bags and placed back into the cooler. I’ve even pre-labeled some containers so I can toss food in quickly without worrying about spillage.
Before leaving, I do one final sweep of the area—picking up bottle caps, wrappers, or any stray napkins. It’s a personal rule of mine to leave the lakeside cleaner than I found it. Tennessee’s lakes are treasures, and protecting them is part of what makes BBQs here so special.
Invite the Right Crowd
This may sound obvious, but inviting the right group makes all the difference. I usually aim for a mix of close friends, family, and a few new faces who mesh well with the vibe. Too big of a crowd can feel chaotic, while too small might lack energy.
I let people know ahead of time what to expect—whether they need to bring chairs, their own drinks, or swimwear. Clear communication helps everyone relax and show up prepared to have a great time.
Some of the best conversations I’ve ever had happened lakeside, with a grilled bratwurst in one hand and the sun setting behind us. That kind of experience is only enhanced when shared with good company.
Final Thoughts
Hosting a BBQ by the lake isn’t just about the food. It’s about creating moments—watching kids chase each other on the grass, hearing the crackle of a grill while boats glide past, and laughing with old friends under a sky full of stars.
If you’re thinking about doing one this season, I can’t recommend it enough. These tips for hosting a lakeside BBQ in Tennessee come from experience, from trial and error, from forgotten spatulas and surprise rainstorms—but also from beautiful evenings that turned into lasting memories.
From choosing the right spot to perfecting your playlist and meal prep, a little planning can turn your BBQ into a true Tennessee lakeside celebration. And when the last embers die down, the laughter fades into the night, and the lake reflects the moonlight, you’ll know it was all worth it.