Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

Review

Intro

While most of the recreation are called Land Between the Lakes is over the border in Kentucky, it is still one of the closest places for Nashvillians to backpack, camp and get away from it all. This narrow finger of land lies between the Cumberland and Tennessee Rivers offers 170,000 acres of land and 300 miles of undeveloped river shoreline.

What Makes It Great

The area lies between what is now called Kentucky Lake (the Tennessee River) and Lake Barkley (the Cumberland River). At its narrowest point, the distance between these two bodies of water is only one mile. The drive from north to south is 43 miles. About one-third of the park is in Tennessee; the rest is in Kentucky. It is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

 In addition to campsites, flat water paddling and hiking, there are also museums, dam tours and a buffalo herd to observe.

Who is Going to Love It

Hikers, paddlers and those who are seeking the peace of nature. 

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

Take I-24 West to US Hwy 79 (Exit 4) to Clarksville. Follow Highway 79, south, approximately 24 miles to Dover. Signs will direct you to Land Between The Lakes. Turn right, north, onto State Hwy 461. This road becomes Woodlands Trace Scenic Byway which is the main north/south road. Follow this road into Land Between The Lakes. The South Welcome Station will be on your right.

Alternate route: To avoid the traffic in Clarksville, take 79 south for 2 miles to Highway 374. Turn right and travel 10 miles to the end of 374 and turn right back onto Hwy 79 South.