Discover Tennessee Lakes Near Nashville: Waterfront Living

If you’re searching for scenic waterside living near Music City, you’re in luck! Numerous lakes near Nashville, including Percy Priest Lake and Old Hickory Lake, stretch for miles. Whether you’re a nature lover, an avid angler, or simply daydreaming about lakefront real estate, these two man-made lakes have what you’re looking for.

Introduction to Waterfront Living

Waterfront living offers a unique and serene lifestyle that combines the beauty of nature with the convenience of modern amenities. For those looking to escape the dazzle of city life, waterfront living provides a tranquil retreat that allows residents to connect with the outdoors and enjoy a range of recreational activities. Imagine waking up to the sound of lapping waves. Spend your days exploring scenic hiking trails or lounging on sandy beaches.

In the Nashville area, several lakes, rivers, and parks provide stunning waterfront living opportunities, surrounded by the lush landscapes of Middle Tennessee.

Percy Priest Lake – Nashville Outdoor Adventure Spot

Located southeast of Nashville, Percy Priest Lake is the ultimate blend of convenience and natural beauty. Created in the 1950s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on Stones River, the largest lake near Nashville spans an impressive 14,000 acres with 42 miles of winding and mostly forested shoreline. Over half of its shoreline is protected parkland. Its proximity to Music City makes it a go-to spot for weekend recreation and year-round living, featuring amenities like a designated swimming area.

Activities and Amenities

Percy Priest Lake is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. All that protected area gives it crystal clear waters and ample opportunities for outdoor activities. When you live lakeside, or even close to it, you’ll have prime access to:

• Water Sports: The lake buzzes with activity. Find five marinas plus public boat ramps to launch onto the blue waters for sailing, kayaking, water skiing, and wakeboarding.
• Fishing Paradise: Known as one of Tennessee’s top bass fishing lakes, the reservoir is also home to crappie, catfish, and bream. Cast a line from your boat or find shore fishing at some overlooks and Cook Recreation Area.
• Parks and Camping: With its campgrounds and nature areas like Long Hunter State Park, the lake is a true natural retreat. Find plenty of scenic hiking trails and picnicking pavilions. Or pitch a tent under the stars at Anderson Road, Seven Points, or Pooles Knob Campgrounds.
• Swimming Area: Get a slice of beach life at the designated swimming areas. Anderson Day Use area is the closest to East Nashville, but Nashville Shores water park is another option.
• Wildlife: The sheltered shores make the state parks perfect for spotting bird species. Watch loons and ducks glide across the serene waters, while migratory species pass through fall and spring.

Community Perks

Percy Priest Lake’s biggest selling point? Its nearest access point is 15 minutes from downtown Nashville, delivering waterfront serenity without sacrificing urban amenities.

On the lake’s northwestern area, the nearest lake neighborhoods are Priest Lake and the Village of Long Hunter. These have a conservation and parkland buffer between them and the shoreline but have a short walk or commute to the public areas.

Nearby suburbs like La Vergne and Smyrna have slightly more lakefront properties but also more buffers like Hurricane Creek Recreation Area and Poole Knob Campground.

Still, even if you live as far south of Murfreesboro, you’ll still have access to the lake plus all the modern conveniences of Nashville living. That includes hot chicken restaurants, school systems, and incredible live music venues.

Old Hickory Lake – A Blend of History and Lakeside Charm

Named after the seventh U.S. President, Andrew “Old Hickory” Jackson, this expansive reservoir stretches eastward for 97 miles along the Cumberland River. Old Hickory Lake is the destination for waterfront fun, enhanced by the proximity to various Nashville parks like Nat Caldwell and Bledsoe Creek State Park. Explore over 22,000 acres of winding water, starting at Hendersonville and returning to Hartsville. You’ll discover history, enjoy outdoor fun, and have prime real estate opportunities along the way.

Activities and Amenities

Old Hickory Lake is the destination for waterfront fun in Middle Tennessee. Living near here, you’ll find:

• Outdoor Adventures: Get out in nature by paddle-boating the waters or hiking along the shoreline parks. Bird-watching here is extraordinary for spotting waterfowl and wading birds. Find parks with quiet picnic areas and access to water activities.
• Golf Courses: Two public golf courses sit on the lake shores: Bluegrass Yacht & Country Club and Hermitage Golf Course.
• Fishing Hotspot: Anglers, take note—the reservoir is loved for bass, crappie, and catfish fishing. Grab a pole and enjoy the day!
• Prime Marinas: With eight commercial marinas, the lakefront has many options for renting boats or docking yours. Have fun jet skiing and power boating during the hot summer months.
• Explore History: Stop by President Jackson’s former home, The Hermitage, near the Cedar Creek Campground for a dose of American history.

Communities

Of the Tennessee lakes near Nashville, Old Hickory has more developed communities, starting with Hendersonville to the north and Old Hickory Village to the south. Other southerly neighborhoods right on the water include Lakewood and Brandywine Pointe. These are all part of the greater Nashville area.

While shores closer to Nashville cater to those craving lakefront living, with private docks and gorgeous sunset views from your backyard, the eastern side boasts larger parks and secluded spots perfect for unwinding. Look near Gallatin and Laguardo for more properties closer to the great outdoors.

All are connected into Nashville with highway systems, including Vietnam Veterans Blvd and Johnny Cash Parkway in Hendersonville. It drops directly into Interstate 65 for a faster commute into and around Nashville.

Want to know a fun fact? Many Nashville celebs have called the neighborhoods along Old Hickory home, including the likes of Johnny Cash and Taylor Swift.

Why These Lakes Are Ideal for Nashville Homebuyers

If you’re weighing your options, both Percy Priest and Old Hickory Lakes are excellent choices for buying waterfront in the Middle Tennessee region. Their perks:

• Location, Location, Location: Both lakes are 15-45 minutes from downtown Nashville’s exciting cultural scene. It’s the best of both worlds for professionals or retirees who want easy commutes and tranquil living.
• Lakefront Communities: From affordable subdivisions to luxurious private estates, you’ll find a home that fits your style.
• Recreation Meets Convenience: Lake life is about more than just views—it’s a lifestyle with fishing, boating, parks, and marinas. Why not live near where you play?
• Local Attractions: The Nashville area is home to many local events and attractions catering to outdoor enthusiasts. The annual Cumberland River Dragon Boat Festival and the walking path around Radnor Lake State Park are two more ways to get waterside in Nashville. 

Additionally, both lakes’ proximity to hubs like Hendersonville, La Vergne, and Murfreesboro means excellent schools, dining options, and shopping are just a short drive away.

And Don’t Forget the Cumberland River

Not to be overshadowed, the Cumberland River flows through Nashville, giving another waterfront living option. Its stunning downtown views and riverwalk areas are vital to Nashville’s thriving community scene. The Cumberland River Greenway runs for miles near downtown, connecting to riverfront neighborhoods and sites like the Nissan Stadium, Ascend Amphitheater, and the Tennessee State Capitol.

Real Estate Options

Another perk to living in the Nashville area is the real estate market. Live in a downtown condo admiring the glittering skyline, or head out of town into the small but fast-growing enclaves like Spring Hill or Franklin. The thriving southern hotspot has pockets of hot markets. 

East Nashville is where there are more waterfront neighborhoods and developments. However, most of the waterfront properties are in the suburbs. That’s why you’ll likely be considering Hendersonville, Smyrna, and La Vergne during your real estate search. Whether you’re seeking a rustic cabin or a modern lakeside mansion, a perfect waterfront property is waiting for you.

Which Nashville Lake Fits Your Lifestyle?

Take the plunge into Tennessee lakefront living! Whether you’re craving city-close convenience or a charming blend of history and neighborly vibes, these lakes near Nashville have it all. Ready to trade your backyard for a lakeside view? Dive in—your dream home is calling!

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