Goose Island is among the primitive camping destinations near J Percy Priest Lake accessible only by watercraft. The lake spans 14,200 acres with 213 miles of shoreline offering multiple dispersed camping options. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline camping conditions throughout the year. Campers must pack out all trash and utilize portable toilet systems when camping at undeveloped sites.
What to do
Fishing expeditions: Primitive camping near J Percy Priest Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities directly from camp. At Goose Island, anglers report good catches regardless of the season. One regular visitor noted, "This is a really great place to camp if you have a way to boat out to the island. We use a canoe since it's only a quarter mile or so paddle."
Shoreline exploration: The extensive shoreline offers numerous coves and inlets for paddlers to discover. Cordell Hull Horseback Trails provides access to less-visited sections of shoreline for wildlife observation and photography.
Wildlife observation: The lake area supports diverse wildlife including deer, turkey, and waterfowl. Several primitive camping areas around J Percy Priest Lake serve as excellent bases for nature photography, particularly during dawn and dusk hours when animals are most active.
What campers like
Relative solitude: Dispersed camping spots around J Percy Priest Lake tend to be less crowded than developed campgrounds, especially on weekdays. The boat-in requirement for Goose Island naturally limits visitor numbers.
Direct water access: Campsites along the shoreline provide immediate water access for swimming, paddling, and fishing without needing to transport equipment.
Natural setting: The undeveloped nature of primitive sites preserves the wilderness experience. There are no artificial lights to interfere with stargazing, and the soundscape remains predominantly natural except for occasional boat traffic during peak season.
What you should know
Wildlife management: All primitive camping areas near J Percy Priest Lake require proper food storage. Wildlife encounters are common, particularly with raccoons that have become habituated to human presence in some locations.
Water safety: The lake experiences variable conditions, with afternoon winds creating challenging paddling situations. Watercraft access to primitive sites requires planning around weather conditions, particularly for less experienced paddlers.
Seasonal considerations: Spring camping (March-May) often means higher water levels and muddier conditions along the shoreline. Late summer camping (August-September) typically offers more exposed shoreline for camping but may require longer walks from where boats can be beached.
Tips for camping with families
Preparation checklist: Families attempting primitive camping near J Percy Priest Lake should bring portable water filtration systems, as no potable water exists at undeveloped sites. Pack additional supplies beyond your expected stay in case weather delays departure.
Safety precautions: Maintain visual contact with children near water at all times. The shoreline can drop off suddenly in some areas. Establish clear boundaries around camp, particularly for nighttime.
Activity planning: Bring nature identification guides specific to Middle Tennessee to engage children in learning about local ecosystems. Simple activities like tracking wildlife footprints along muddy shorelines can provide hours of engagement for younger campers.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: True primitive camping areas near J Percy Priest Lake generally cannot accommodate RVs. Visitors with RVs should utilize developed campgrounds with designated sites and utilize primitive areas as day-use destinations.
Day trip strategies: RVers staying at developed campgrounds nearby can use portable watercraft to access primitive sites for day use. Launch from designated boat ramps rather than attempting shoreline launches from unauthorized areas.
