Jefferson Springs
Jefferson Springs Recreation Area is a lakeside oasis in the hills of middle Tennessee, providing visitors with countless recreational activities on the lake and the surrounding woods and grasslands.
Jefferson Springs Recreation Area offers a large group shelter for day use and can accommodate up to 100 guests, making it an ideal spot for large parties and family functions.
Need to Know
- No off-road vehicles permitted
- 35 vehicles allowed at group shelter
- Skunks frequent the area; store food in approved containers
- Activities other than picnicking in the group shelters must be pre-approved by the Resource Manager
- Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.
STOP THE SPREAD OF INVASIVE SPECIES. Remove plants, seeds, animals, and mud from boots, gear, pets, and vehicles. Clean your gear before entering and leaving the recreation site. Stay on designated roads and trails, and follow local guidelines for firewood. CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY boats and any other recreational equipment that contacts water. Dispose of unwanted bait, worms, fish parts, or other organisms into the trash and not into the environment. For more information visit https://www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov/rec.
Natural Features
J. Percy Priest Dam and Lake was one of the first Corps of Engineers lakes to have recreation as part of its mission. The dam, completed in 1968, impounds 42 miles, with 14,200 surface acres of water.
In soothing contrast to the sparkling waters of the lake are the adjacent 19,087 acres of grasslands and woodlands.
A highlight of the region, the Cedar Glades Natural Area, is home to countless wildlife and plant species, including the Tennessee coneflower.
Nearby Attractions
J. Percy Priest Lake is conveniently located about 10 miles east of downtown Nashville, offering visitors countless cultural activities in addition to the conveniences of a metro area.
Recreation
The lake provides a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities for millions of visitors each year. Because of the temperate climate and relatively long recreation season, visitors have numerous activities to choose from, including fishing, hunting, picnicking, boating, canoeing, hiking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing.
Fishing opportunities abound at J. Percy Priest Lake, with a wide variety of species available, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, striped bass, Cherokee bass and white bass. Other species such as catfish, bluegill, bream and trout provide excellent opportunities for younger anglers.
Contact Information
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JEFFERSON SPRINGS 7660 W JEFFERSON PIKE SMYRNA TN 37167
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 615-889-1975
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
From downtown Nashville, TN, take I-24 east to Sam Ridley Parkway. Turn left onto Jefferson Pike and the Recreation Area will be on the left.
