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Old Hickory Lake

The nearest proper lake to Springfield — swimming beaches, marinas, and Johnny Cash's old lakeshore.

Where
Hendersonville
Time needed
Half day
Tickets
Free (day-use)
Free entry
Yes
Old Hickory Lake shoreline and marina near Hendersonville Old Hickory Lake shoreline and marina near Hendersonville

What to expect at Old Hickory Lake

Old Hickory Lake is Robertson County's answer to 'where do we swim'. The 22,500-acre reservoir sits about 40 minutes southeast on the Cumberland River between Hendersonville and Gallatin, and its Corps of Engineers day-use parks are free and open to the public. Sanders Ferry Park in Hendersonville has a swimming beach, picnic pavilions and a fishing pier; Rockland Recreation Area on the north shore is quieter and has better shade. On a summer Saturday the beaches are busy but not chaotic.

For a proper day out, pack a cooler, drive down early and claim a picnic table at Sanders Ferry by 10am. The swimming area is roped, sand-bottom, and lifeguard-supervised in July and August. Fishing is excellent — striped bass are the local specialty. Kayak and paddleboard rentals run about $25/hour from the Hendersonville Marina; a pontoon runs $300-450 for a half day and holds up to 10. Johnny Cash's old lakeside home was on the north shore near Caudill Drive; the property is private but locals can point out the site.

Best time is May through September for swimming, October for fishing and quiet shoreline walks. Weekends draw Nashville crowds; Sunday afternoons after 4pm are surprisingly calm. Combine with dinner in Hendersonville or a drive down to Nashville. From Springfield, the drive is about 45 minutes via Highway 31E and Long Hollow Pike — scenic enough to be part of the day.

Plan your visit TicketsFree (day-use) Free entryYes Time neededHalf day WhereHendersonville Opening hours Dawn to dusk (day-use areas) Hotels near Old Hickory Lake

Questions about Old Hickory Lake

How much to visit the lake?

Day-use parks and beaches are free. Boat rentals and marina services are extra.

When is it free?

Every day, dawn to dusk. Lifeguards seasonal, but shoreline access is always free.

How long should I plan?

A half day minimum for swimming and picnicking; a full day if boating.

When is it closed?

Day-use parks are open year-round; swimming beaches roped off from October to May.

Do I need permits?

No permits for day use. Fishing needs a Tennessee license.

How do I get there?

45-minute drive from Springfield via Highway 31E; free parking at all Corps of Engineers day-use areas.

Where to stay

Hotels near Old Hickory Lake

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