Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Old Hickory Lake
Cedar Creek Campground directly on Old Hickory Lake permits pets at all 60 sites with water and electric hookups. The Corps of Engineers park features well-maintained grounds where leashed pets are welcome at the waterfront campsites, giving dogs immediate access to the lake. Bathrooms are cleaned daily with camping areas arranged in multiple wagon wheel style layouts offering both shade and sun options. Most sites have lovely views of the lake if not directly on the shoreline. RV sites include a concrete pad, fire ring, and coated metal mesh picnic table, while campers with pets report the grounds are kept clean despite heavy weekend use. Dogs must remain leashed throughout the campground, including at the swimming beach and playground area accessible to campers.
The lakefront campsites at Cages Bend Campground provide excellent options for pet owners who enjoy fishing with their dogs. Trails around the campground offer short walking opportunities, though the heavily wooded setting requires attentive leash control due to wildlife in the area. Both campgrounds maintain quiet hours that apply to barking dogs, and the park staff at Cages Bend are known for taking their responsibilities seriously regarding pet regulations. Cedar Creek Marina within walking distance of the campground has outdoor seating areas where well-behaved dogs are permitted. The nearest veterinary services can be found in Mount Juliet or Gallatin, approximately 10-15 minutes away from either campground. Pet owners should note that the day use areas become crowded during summer weekends, potentially creating more stimulation for dogs sensitive to crowds and noise.
