10 of the Absolute Best Beaches in Tennessee

Despite the fact that Tennessee is technically a landlocked state, there are still plenty of beaches thanks to the gorgeous lakes sprinkled across the region. If you’re heading to Tennessee, definitely hit up Knoxville, Chattanooga and of course Nashville, but if you want to enjoy some time by the water, make sure to check out this list of the best beaches in Tennessee! You can enjoy the usual beach activities, such as boating, swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Plus, since the majority of these lakes are adjacent to state parks, you can enjoy camping, hiking, and biking as well.

Check Out the Best Beaches in Tennessee

Big Ridge Lake

Why You Should Go

Big Ridge Lake opens its sandy beach to visitors each summer. Families who go there can enjoy many exciting activities in the area, including beach volleyball, basketball, tennis, softball, and more! If you want to camp for a night or two, there are more than 50 campsites and 20 cabins. There is tons of room to swim and plenty of open tables for a nice family picnic.

Cordell Hull Lake

Why You Should Go

Cordell Hull Lake was built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and offers plenty of fun activities for families! There are plenty of recreational opportunities at this beach, including boating, fishing, picnicking, and more. For those who want to camp a night or two, make sure to check out the two adjacent campgrounds, which have over 150 sites in total.

Cherokee Lake

Why You Should Go

Cherokee Lake is one of the most popular spots for bass fishing in the area. Surrounded by gorgeous hills and farmland, it is a great beach for campers, fishermen, and paddlers alike. There are several boat docks and picnic areas, as well as campgrounds for those who want to stay. There are plenty of events that go on near Cherokee Lake, including fireworks shows and parties, so make sure to check their local calendar.

Cheatham Lake

Why You Should Go

Another lake built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Cheatham Lake has more than 320 miles of shoreline for families to enjoy. The beach has 18 boat ramps, 14 playgrounds, and two marinas. This location is wonderfully kid-friendly and great for water activities, such as kayaking, wakeboarding, and water skiing.

Center Hill Lake

Why You Should Go

Center Hill Lake is the product of the Colins River and the Caney Fork River. With 400 miles of shoreline, three historic structures, and two scenic waterfalls, there are many things to behold at this gorgeous beach. The Caney Fork River is great for fishing, boating, kayaking, and hiking, which Center Hill Lake has a wonderful layout for swimming and fishing. There are also two campgrounds with 60 campsites and ten cabins.

Chickamauga Lake

Why You Should Go

Chickamauga Lake is named after the Chickamauga Cherokee Tribe that use to live on the land. It is an incredibly popular destination for families thanks to its 1,300 kilometers of shoreline. Plus, the lake is adjacent to two wildlife centers, a museum, and eight parks. Enjoy some of the lake’s most popular water activities, such as paddle boarding, water skiing, swimming, fishing, and boating.

Grundy lakes

Why You Should Go

The Grundy Lakes area is home to some of the best historical sites and hiking trails. Have a picnic by the water or spread out your blankets to soak in the sun. With 30,485 acres, the surrounding state park spans well across four state counties and offers plenty to explore. From woodlands to waterfalls to streams to cliffs, there are so many ways to elevate your beach day at Grundy Lakes.

J. Percy Priest Lake

Why You Should Go

If you’re in Nashville for a vacation, we highly recommend checking out J. Percy Priest Lake. not far from downtown Nashville, you’ll find wakeboarding, fishing, sailing, swimming, water skiing, horseback riding, biking, picnicking, and wildlife watching. If you’re looking to stay for the night, check out the three campgrounds sprinkled along the 42 miles of shoreline. Kids will enjoy the rustic playground near Bryant Cove while adults will enjoy hopping in on a game of pickup volleyball. This is one of the best beaches in Tennessee!

Kentucky Lake

Why You Should Go

You could almost look at Kentucky Lake and swear it was an ocean considering how large it is. With more than 160,300 acres covered by the lake, there is plenty of room for group camping, fishing, and water activities. The coastline features nearby campgrounds, nature trails, and historic sites. Make sure to keep an eye on the event calendar to be part of one of the many annual attractions.

Dale Hollow Lake

Why You Should Go

The Dale Hollow Reservoir is another project credited to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Situated on the Kentucky-Tennessee border, there is plenty of room for families to enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports. The quiet yet scenic beach is often enjoyed by campers and houseboaters. There is a small park near First Christian Church that kids can enjoy playing in, as well as the putt-putt course by the Methodist Church.

Map of the Best Beaches in Tennessee

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