Picture Yourself Here
Old Hickory Lake is a perfect place for picnics, leisurely walks along the shoreline or just watching the sailboats and people. Both Gallatin and Hendersonville have parks along the lakeshore with picnic areas, walking/biking trails and more.
Bring your own boat or rent a pontoon, canoe, or jet ski. You’ll have a great time exploring the secluded coves, shady banks and wide-open spaces.
Fishing Tournaments
Old Hickory Lake is one of Tennessee's premier fishing spots. Many national and regional championships have been held on the lake, including WalMart FLW, Everstart, Bassmaster Elite, Bassmaster Megabucks, Women's Bassmaster, BASS Tennessee Eastern Invitational, Super Bass Classic National Championship and Bass Pro Shops Crappiemasters National Championship. See our tournament schedule for upcoming events.
Old Hickory Lake Visitor Center
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operates a visitor center at Old Hickory Lock & Dam. Open Monday - Friday, 7:30 am - 4:30 pm, tours are free. Their website has more information, online maps of the lake and facilities listings.
Other Activities on the Lake
Bledsoe Creek State Park offers camping, walking trails, picnic shelters, ballfield, playground and boat ramps. Guided nature walks, the annual Bluegrass and Gospel Festival, and other events are scheduled throughout the year. The park will be closed this summer for paving, so be sure to call before you go.
RiverShip Cruises caters to parties of twelve or less. Enjoy a relaxing dinner as you navigate the lake on Captain Nelson's yacht.
Cumberland River Cruises is perfect for a family reunion, meeting, or a casual cruise on the lake. Captain Jesse's pontoon can accommodate up to twenty six passengers.
Cumberland River Yacht Charter offers sunset and moonlight cruises on Old Hickory Lake for parties of six or less. Do something different for dinner and cruise downriver to a waterfront restaurant where you can enjoy a lakeside meal.