Your Summer Guide to Percy Priest Lake
With the Nashville heat cranking up, there's no better way to cool off than by spending a weekend at Percy Priest Lake. From the best spots to paddle, to where to rent a boat or jet ski, this lake girl has you covered! Image: Facebook / Four Corners RV Resort and Marina
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By
Kate Feinberg
Summer is officially here, which means it’s time to pack a cooler and head for the water. As a self-proclaimed “lake girl,” it’s safe to say I’ve earned my stripes when it comes to all things Percy Priest Lake. From the best spots to paddle and lounge to where to rent a boat or jet ski — and even where to stop for snacks and sips — this guide has you covered.
Table of Contents
The Ultimate Lake Day Itinerary
There are endless ways to spend your summer at Percy Priest, but here is one of my favorite ways to soak up the sun on a Saturday or Sunday.
- Paddle: Kick off your morning relaxing with a paddleboard or kayak ride. Launch at Hamilton Creek to take advantage of the quiet, wake-free cove.
- Stock up: Head to one of the three marinas on the lake to grab any boat supplies you might need, like sunscreen, water, inflatable tubes, or sunglasses.
- Boat: Reserve a boat rental and enjoy a day on the water, swimming, water skiing, or tubing. Or for more of a thrill, rent a jet ski!
- Lunch break: Stop by one of the three restaurants on the water for lunch and a refreshing cocktail.
- Watch the sunset: After an afternoon of boating, end your day at one of Percy Priest’s many parks to catch sunset views and unwind. Hit the dog park at Stones River Greenway (Percy Priest Dam Trailhead) to let your furry friends stretch their legs, then grab dinner at the nearby Urban Nectar Cantina or Tennfold Brewing.
Where to Paddle + Play
- Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort: Just past the Percy Priest Dam, Nashville Shores is only 20 minutes from Downtown Nashville. The waterfront resort features a waterpark with more than 20 attractions, including adrenaline-pumping slides, a massive wave pool, a relaxing lazy river, and interactive play areas for all ages. Guests can also enjoy the Aqua Park — a floating playground with 40 inflatable elements. Adventure-seekers will love the 100+ obstacles like ziplines, Tarzan swings, and suspended bridges. Whether planning a day of fun or a weekend retreat, Nashville Shores offers scenic lakefront cabins, a well-equipped RV campground, and boat rentals.
- Cap’n Dave’s Water Sports: Right next door to Nashville Shores, Cap’n Dave’s Water Sports is your go-to for lake adventures, offering jet ski, paddleboard, kayak, and canoe rentals. If you’re chasing a thrill, the Yamaha VX high-output wave-runners deliver an unbeatable rush. I’ve tried them myself, and there’s nothing like skimming across the open water at top speed. Prefer something more low-key? Take in the beauty of Percy Priest Lake with a stand-up paddleboard, kayak, canoe, or pedal boat. Paddle rentals are available for three hours, and you’ll get a fourth hour free.
- Nashville Paddle Company: For over a decade, Nashville Paddle Company has been a beloved hub for stand-up paddle boarding on Percy Priest Lake, offering everything from SUP yoga and fitness classes to group excursions and paddle board rentals — all from the convenience of a waterfront boathouse at Hamilton Creek. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful solo paddle or a fun group outing, Nashville Paddle Co. delivers a full-service, memorable lake experience. Editor’s note: Nashville Paddle Company is temporarily closed as it transitions to new ownership. The relaunch is expected this summer.
- Long Hunter State Park / Couchville Lake: Tucked within Long Hunter State Park and connected to Percy Priest Lake, Couchville Lake offers a peaceful, no-wake setting perfect for paddling and fishing. This 110-acre lake is open year-round and ideal for paddlers looking to enjoy nature at a slower pace. During the summer, visitors can rent vessels from the seasonal boat dock on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with paddles and life jackets included. Rates start at just $10 per hour, and you’re welcome to bring your own paddle craft, too.
- Nashville Rowing Club: If you’ve ever been interested in learning how to row, Nashville Rowing Club offers junior and adult programs for all levels at Hamilton Creek. Immerse yourself in a complete body and mind workout while enjoying time outdoors and the camaraderie of working with a team.
Where to Eat + Drink
- Shipwreck Cove: Located at Elm Hill Marina, Shipwreck Cove is a lively, family-owned-and-operated joint. Enjoy a midday break and indulge in a cold beer, cocktails (like their famous frozen Bushwackers!), burgers, or wings. Take your food to go and enjoy it on your boat, or unwind on their spacious deck and experience a casual atmosphere with a chance to catch some live music.
- Papa Turney’s Old Fashion BBQ: For hickory-smoked BBQ, head to Papa Turney’s at Nashville Shores Marina. The family-owned restaurant serves lunch and dinner specials like smoky ribs, tender pulled pork, chicken wings, smoked catfish, and delicious sides and pies. While there, sit near Miss Zeke’s Juke Joint for live music, noon to close, Wednesday through Sunday.
- Scoreboard Bar & Grill: Four Corners Resort and Marina is home to Scoreboard, a relaxing restaurant with a large covered patio, live music, “fish bowl” cocktails, and Southern comfort cuisine, like hot chicken, BBQ, hearty appetizers, and burgers.
Marinas + Boat Rentals
- Nashville Shores Marina: Just 15 minutes from downtown, Nashville Shores Marina is conveniently located on the lake’s northernmost point. The marina has a gift shop, “Captain’s Quarters,” which provides everything you need for a fun day on the lake. Slip and boat rentals are available, as are a variety of services, like cleaning, winterizing, and engine repair.
- Elm Hill Marina: Sun Life’s Elm Hill Marina offers 800+ wet slips with water and electrical hook-ups for short-term or long-term boat storage. If you don’t have a vessel of your own, you can book a luxurious pontoon boat for the day. The marina also features a fuel dock, a ship’s store, and an on-site restaurant.
- Four Corners Marina: Located in La Vergne, 20 miles from downtown, Four Corners is the largest marina on the lake, featuring wet slips for boats of all sizes, boat and watersport rentals, a 24-hour fuel dock, tiny home rentals, floating cabin rentals, boat trailer storage, a marina shop, and a restaurant.
- Hamilton Creek Marina: Hamilton Creek is a picturesque sailboat marina that also includes a boat ramp. The marina provides guests with storage for sailboats, rowing shells, canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards. It also happens to be a popular launch spot for local paddlers, thanks to its quiet wake-free cove.
- Percy Priest Yacht Club: If you are interested in learning how to sail or have a sailboat of your own, Percy Priest Yacht Club (PPYC) is a community of sailing and racing enthusiasts. PPYC teaches boat handling skills and safety on the water while also providing opportunities to connect and socialize.
- Freedom Boat Club: Members of Freedom Boat Club can enjoy unlimited access to 12 top-tier locations across Tennessee and 400+ clubs worldwide. On Percy Priest, Freedom Boat Club offers five different boat types and 38 boats across their two locations at Nashville Shores Marina and Four Corners Marina. Each vessel is brand new and top-of-the-line, from tritoons and double-deckers to bowriders and surf boats. A variety of memberships are available and include unlimited training with USCG-certified captains.
- Nautical Boat Club: Nautical Boat Club is Nashville’s largest and longest-running boat club, located at Elm Hill Marina. The club offers a variety of luxury boats with new ones added every one to three years. Two different memberships are available and include access to accessories like waterskis and tubes.
Waterfront Parks
- Percy Priest Lake Visitor Center/Overlook: The Percy Priest Lake Visitor Center is located on the west side of the dam and has a beautiful waterfront park where you can launch a paddleboard or kayak. Or, head just across the dam to the Overlook for unbeatable scenery. This spot offers sweeping views of the lake you won’t find anywhere else. SB Tip: After a day on the lake, take your dog across the street to the Stones River Greenway dog park to get the zoomies out.
- Seven Points Campground and Day-Use Area: Seven Points Campground and Day-Use Area is a lakeside oasis in Mount Juliet. This scenic spot features lakeside campsites, shaded picnic areas, a boat ramp, and a short hiking trail. Families love the designated swimming area, which is roped off for safety and stocked with complimentary life jackets. Note: Pets are not allowed.
- Cook Day-Use Area: This spacious lakeside retreat in Mount Juliet offers two large group shelters, a playground, and wide-open grassy areas with scenic views. Visitors can swim, launch a kayak or paddleboard, or enjoy a picnic at one of the many tables along the shore.
- Hamilton Creek: Hamilton Creek is a pristine location to spend a day by the water. Park at Hamilton Creek Sailboat Marina to access the pebbled beach and launch a paddleboard or kayak, or take the first right as you enter the park, and you’ll find a spacious beach in a quiet cove with plenty of space to swim, enjoy a picnic, or paddle.
- Anderson Road Recreation Area: This popular, family-friendly spot for swimming and picnicking features a playground, restrooms, and a boat launch ramp. Be sure to arrive early, as it can close on weekends due to high visitor volume. Parking is $5, and pets are not allowed.
- Long Hunter State Park: Long Hunter State Park is one of my favorite places in Hamilton Creek because its trails offer plenty of spots to stop for a quiet picnic. Spanning over 2,600 acres along the shores of Percy Priest Lake, the park is divided into four sections — Couchville, Baker’s Grove, Bryant Grove, and Sellars Farm. With more than 30 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy paved paths to more rugged routes, it’s a haven for outdoor lovers. The park features two boat launch ramps, seasonal rentals on Couchville Lake, fishing access, campsites, and a designated swimming beach at Bryant Grove.
- Poole Knobs Recreation Area & Campground: This campground, located in La Vergne, is a peaceful lakeside getaway with 87 shady, spacious campsites. Modern amenities like drinking water, restrooms, and hot showers are available, ensuring a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy lake access via the on-site boat ramp, making it a great base for fishing or paddling.
- Jefferson Springs: Located further south in Smyrna, Jefferson Springs is another scenic park on the water. It is ideal for picnics or launching paddleboards or kayaks. A boat ramp is also available. Within the park, visitors can enjoy a two-mile out-and-back trail.
See you on the water!
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Kate Feinberg
Kate Feinberg is a professional writer based in Nashville. She has more than 14 years of freelance writing experience covering travel, wellness, and lifestyle. A certified meditation teacher, RYT-200 yoga instructor, and integrative nutrition health coach, she brings a strong wellness perspective to her work. Kate is also a marathon runner and the creator of a plant-based food blog, Chef Kate F, where she shares nourishing recipes and mindful living tips. When she’s not writing, you’ll likely find her on the golf course, exploring new destinations, or combining both with golf-focused travel. She enjoys lake life on Percy Priest Lake.