Camping at Old Hickory Lake offers access to 22,500 acres of water surrounded by limestone bluffs and hardwood forests. Water levels fluctuate seasonally by up to 5 feet, affecting shoreline campsites during summer drawdowns. The reservoir reaches depths of 60 feet with water temperatures ranging from 45°F in winter to 85°F in summer.
What to do
Fishing from shorelines: Anglers can fish directly from camping areas at Shutes Branch where shoreline fishing is accessible without a boat. "This site is perfect if fishing and boating! Many people come here to fish but unfortunately that is not my thing!" notes a visitor at Shutes Branch.
Watercraft rentals: Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or jet skis at Four Corners RV Resort for hourly fees between $25-$75. "They rent kayaks, paddle boards, and golf carts. There are three docks with kayak and jet ski slips. The view of Percy Priest is incredible and serene," explains a camper at Four Corners RV Resort.
Off-season hiking: When temperatures cool between October and April, explore nearby trail systems. "We took a walk around section 2, and section 3. There was a lot more room, and seemed a little more private," reports a winter visitor to Cedars of Lebanon State Park.
What campers like
Marina proximity: Some campgrounds offer direct access to marinas with boat-friendly amenities. "Our campsite had all the amenities (Firepit, picnic table, site trash pickup) and was spacious. Additionally, we were right next to one of the courtesy docks where our family members picked us up on their boat, enjoying the lake coves and scenery," writes a reviewer at Four Corners RV Resort.
Concrete pads: Level sites with firm foundations make setup easier in all weather conditions. "The resort grounds are new with level concrete pads. Excellent WIFI connectivity pretty much everywhere. The staff are seen all day caring for the grounds. Hardly anything out of place," shares a camper about their lakeside experience.
Seasonal swimming options: Designated swimming areas operate primarily from Memorial Day through Labor Day. "We stopped by the office to let them know that one of our sewer connections was missing a cap. The issue was fixed before we got back to our campsite. The gift shop at the office is well stocked with sundry items and souvenirs," reports a visitor at Nashville KOA Resort.
What you should know
Platform camping setup: Some sites feature unique elevated platforms rather than traditional ground pads. "We stayed in site 50, which had no visibility to DISH west satellites, and we were not able to pick up and OTA TV with our omni antenna. Most of the fire rings are in a narrow strip of gravel along the road, but you can get chairs around most of them," explains a camper at Edgar Evins State Park.
Mosquito preparation: Waterside camping around Old Hickory Lake can bring intense insect activity, especially at sunset from May through September. "The first and last night we stayed the mosquitos were so bad we couldn't be outside. There were two nights in between that it was tolerable. I went out on the dock one night to fish and they were so thick it was impossible to not get bit by them," warns a Four Corners visitor.
Highway noise considerations: Some glamping spots close to Old Hickory Lake experience traffic noise that may affect light sleepers. "Sites are very close together. Not much room between my rv and neighbor. The website shows a creek but it's more of a storm water runoff. Noisy due to the highway that is very close. Great sounds of the trucks to keep you awake," cautions a visitor at Nashville North KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Choose sites strategically based on child safety and noise factors. "We had a nice clean site, number 62. It had a fire pit, grill and picnic table. The site location was great for us because we had our 5 dogs with us and there was room at this site to let them out with ease and we were right next to a hiking trail for their walks," shares a visitor at Cedars of Lebanon State Park.
Special events camping: Some campgrounds offer seasonal kid-focused activities that require advance planning. "Their halloween weekend is a great time of fun for the kids!" exclaims a family who visited Cedars of Lebanon State Park.
Swimming beach monitoring: Water quality can vary with rainfall, and some beaches may close temporarily. "There is a swimming beach as well as several relaxing spots, a playground, a bark park and a dog washing station. There is a bath house, laundry, a gym and a small store," notes a Nashville East-Lebanon KOA visitor about facilities available for families.
Tips from RVers
Site drainage concerns: Low-lying glamping locations near Old Hickory Lake can experience puddling after heavy rains. "Our pull through patio site was $120/nt, and that was during early spring time. Is it worth it? Maybe during the summer as the pool is quite nice and there are plenty of activities," shares an RV camper at Nashville KOA Resort.
Reservation timing: Book waterside RV sites 3-6 months in advance for summer stays. "Large level sites with some privacy. Bathrooms were super clean. Was able to get groceries and all I needed just 10 mins away," reports a visitor to Cedars of Lebanon State Park.
Utility placements: Some older campgrounds have utilities positioned for smaller vintage RVs. "We traveled in a 29' motorhome. We stayed in section 1, site 22. It was right beside the shower house. It was a pull through site, but it was a little tight. To my surprise I opened the electric pedestal, and there was only 50 amp service," notes a visitor at Montgomery Bell State Park.
