Embrace Summer: Where to Hike, Boat, Camp, Fish, and More Near Franklin, Tennessee
As the long, warm days of summer start to wane, there’s a collective urge to soak up every last drop of sunshine and outdoor adventure. In Williamson County, Tennessee, and the surrounding areas, the end of summer is the perfect time to take advantage of the many outdoor activities that make this region a paradise for nature lovers. Whether you’re looking to paddle through serene waters, camp under the stars, or feel the rush of a river, there are plenty of options to keep the summer spirit alive just a little longer.
Paddling Through Paradise: Kayaking and Canoeing on the Harpeth River
One of the most popular spots for kayaking and canoeing in Williamson County is the Harpeth River. Meandering through the heart of Middle Tennessee, the Harpeth offers a scenic and relaxing way to spend a day on the water. The river is mostly gentle, making it ideal for beginners and families, though there are a few stretches with mild rapids for those seeking a bit of excitement.
- Where to Launch: The City of Franklin, Tennessee, provides several canoe access sites along the Harpeth River: Williamson County Recreation Center, The Park at Harlinsdale Farm, Pinkerton Park, Eastern Flank, and Ladd Farms.
- What to Bring: A kayak or canoe, life jackets, and plenty of sunscreen. Don’t forget a waterproof bag for your belongings, and a cooler with snacks and drinks to keep you fueled for the journey.
- What to Expect: As you paddle down the Harpeth, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery, towering limestone bluffs, and the occasional wildlife sighting. The river is dotted with gravel bars and islands, perfect for a quick break or picnic. The average trip lasts about three to four hours, depending on the current and how often you stop to explore.
Rustic Retreat: Camping at Montgomery Bell State Park
Montgomery Bell State Park is a large, scenic park in Dickson County, Tennessee, offering a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and boating. About a 40-minute drive from Williamson County, the park offers a quintessential Tennessee camping experience. With over 3,800 acres of forested land, the park is rich in history, with sites like the old church where the Cumberland Presbyterian Church was founded. The park features several trails, as well as three lakes where visitors can enjoy water activities like fishing and paddle boating. The park also has a golf course, picnic areas, and a visitor center.
- Camping Options: The park offers a variety of camping options to suit different preferences. For a more rugged experience, there are backcountry campsites that require a short hike to reach. These sites are more secluded and offer a true wilderness experience. If you prefer a bit more comfort, the park also has a developed tent and RV campground with amenities like electricity and water hookups.
- What to Do: Aside from camping, Montgomery Bell State Park is a hotspot for hiking, fishing, and swimming. The park has several trails that range from easy to challenging, including the Montgomery Bell Trail, which takes you through some of the park’s most scenic areas.
- When to Go: Late summer and early fall are particularly beautiful times to visit Montgomery Bell State Park. The temperatures are still warm, but the crowds have thinned out, giving you more space to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Lazy River Days: Tubing on the Buffalo River
If you’re looking for a lazy, laid-back way to spend a summer afternoon, tubing on the Buffalo River is hard to beat. Located about an hour’s drive from Williamson County, the Buffalo River is one of Tennessee’s most pristine waterways, offering clear, cool water and stunning scenery.
- Getting There: The Buffalo River is accessible from several points, but one of the most popular spots for tubing is at the Buffalo River Resort. The resort offers a range of watercraft rentals, including canoes, kayaks, and tubes, as well as a shuttle service. In addition to water activities, the resort provides a variety of accommodations such as cabins and camping sites, and features amenities like a swimming pool, general store, and event spaces.
- What to Expect: Tubing on the Buffalo River is all about relaxation. The gentle current will carry you downstream at a leisurely pace, giving you plenty of time to take in the sights and sounds of nature. The trip typically lasts about two to three hours, depending on the water level and how often you stop along the way.
- What to Bring: Swimsuits, water shoes, sunscreen, and a waterproof phone case. Many tubers also bring along a cooler, stocked with drinks and snacks for the journey.
Thrill Seekers’ Paradise: Rafting on the Ocoee River
For those seeking a bit more adrenaline, a rafting trip on the Ocoee River is the perfect way to close out the summer. While it’s a bit of a drive from Williamson County—about three hours east—the Ocoee River is one of the top whitewater rafting destinations in the country.
- What to Expect: The Ocoee River offers a thrilling ride through Class III and IV rapids, making it a favorite for both experienced rafters and adventurous beginners. The river is divided into two main sections: the Middle Ocoee, which is the more popular and accessible section, and the Upper Ocoee, which includes the Olympic Course from the 1996 Atlanta Games.
- Guided Trips: Due to the river’s challenging nature, it’s recommended to book a guided trip with one of the many outfitters in the area. These trips typically last about half a day and include all necessary gear, safety instructions, and a guide to help you navigate the rapids.
- When to Go: The best time to raft the Ocoee is in late summer when the water levels are still high, and the weather is warm.
Relax by the Lake: Boating on Percy Priest Lake
For those who prefer a more leisurely day on the water, Percy Priest Lake offers a beautiful setting for boating, fishing, and swimming. Located in Nashville, the lake is a quick drive from Franklin, making it an ideal spot for a day trip.
- Marinas and Boat Rentals: Percy Priest Lake has several marinas where you can rent boats, including pontoons, speedboats, and jet skis. Elm Hill Marina and Four Corners Marina are two of the most popular options, offering a range of rentals and amenities like fuel, snacks, and bait.
- Fishing: The lake is also a popular fishing destination, with plentiful populations of bass, crappie, and catfish. Whether you’re casting from a boat or the shore, you’re likely to have a successful day on the water.
- Swimming and Picnicking: Many of the lake’s recreation areas have designated swimming beaches and picnic spots, making it easy to spend a full day enjoying the sun and water. Cook’s Recreation Area and Hamilton Creek Recreation Area are two great options for families, with amenities like restrooms, playgrounds, and shaded picnic tables.
Equestrian Escapes: Horseback Riding at Natchez Trace State Park
For those who want to combine water activities with land-based adventure, Natchez Trace State Park, located about two hours west of Williamson County, is an excellent option. The park offers a unique blend of horseback riding trails, hiking, and camping opportunities.
- Horseback Riding: The park has miles of well-maintained horseback riding trails. The trails range from easy to challenging and take you through a variety of terrains, including wooded areas and open fields.
- Water Activities: The park also has several lakes where you can go fishing, swimming, or paddling. Browns Creek Lake is a popular spot for fishing, while Cub Creek Lake offers paddle boat rentals.
- Camping: Natchez Trace State Park offers a variety of camping options, including backcountry sites, developed campgrounds, and cabins. There are also equestrian campsites available for those traveling with horses.
Nature’s Retreat: Hiking and Camping at Henry Horton State Park
Another excellent option for outdoor enthusiasts is Henry Horton State Park, located about 40 minutes from Franklin, Tennessee. This park is a favorite for both day trips and weekend getaways, offering a mix of activities for all ages.
- Hiking Trails: The park features several miles of hiking trails, catering to various skill levels from easy to moderate. A highlight is the Wilhoite Mill Trail, a 1.5-mile loop that takes hikers through the scenic landscapes along the Duck River, offering beautiful views and opportunities to spot wildlife.
- Camping: Henry Horton State Park offers a range of camping options, including RV sites with full hookups, tent sites, and backcountry camping. The campground features amenities such as bathhouses, picnic areas, and a camp store. For those seeking more comfort, there are also cabin rentals available.
- Golfing, Floating, and More: In addition to hiking and camping, the park offers a range of other activities. Visitors can enjoy golfing, disc golf, and even trap and skeet shooting. The park also offers guided river float trips along the scenic Duck River, where participants can relax on the water while learning about the local ecology from knowledgeable guides.
A Peaceful Place: Hiking at Radnor Lake
While Radnor Lake State Park is technically in Davidson County, its proximity to Williamson County makes it a popular destination for residents looking to enjoy some quiet time in nature. Radnor Lake is a designated natural area, meaning it’s a peaceful spot free from the noise and crowds of more developed parks.
- Hiking: The park features over six miles of trails, ranging from easy to strenuous, perfect for hiking and exploring the natural surroundings.
- Wildlife Viewing: The park is known for its rich wildlife, including birds, turtles, and deer, making it ideal for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
- Accessibility: The park is just a short drive from Franklin, making it an easy day trip for those in Williamson County. Keep in mind that Radnor Lake is a protected area, so activities like swimming and fishing are not permitted to preserve the natural environment.
Lake Life: Boating and Fishing at Tims Ford Lake
Located about an hour and a half south of Williamson County, Tims Ford Lake is a gem for boating, fishing, and camping enthusiasts. The lake is surrounded by Tims Ford State Park, which offers a variety of recreational activities.
- Boating and Fishing: Tims Ford Lake is well-known for its excellent fishing, particularly for largemouth, spotted, and smallmouth bass. The lake also has several marinas where you can rent canoes, kayaks, and pontoons.
- Camping: Tims Ford State Park offers a variety of camping options, including RV campsites with water and electric hookups, tent campsites, and backcountry camping. The campground features amenities such as bathhouses, picnic tables, and fire rings. The park also has several cabins available for rent. Several hiking trails offer stunning views of the lake, especially during the late summer when the foliage begins to change.
- What to Bring: Fishing gear, a camera for capturing the scenic views, and camping supplies if you plan to stay overnight. The park also has picnic shelters, so pack a lunch to enjoy by the water.
Nature and Luxury: Adventure at Bolt Farm Treehouse
Located within a few hours’ drive from Franklin, Tennessee, Bolt Farm Treehouse offers an unforgettable glamping experience in the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. The property features cliffside treehouses, mirrored cabins, and luxury domes, perfect for adults seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation.
- Hiking and Nature Exploration: The surrounding area is ideal for hiking, with trails that offer breathtaking views of the mountains. As you hike, you can discover hidden waterfalls, enjoy the serenity of the forest, and connect with nature in a peaceful environment.
- Unique Accommodations: Stay in one of the beautifully designed treehouses, mirrored cabins, or luxury domes, each equipped with modern amenities and incredible nature views.
- What to Bring: Comfortable hiking gear, a camera for the scenic vistas, and essentials for a relaxing stay in nature.
Unwind in Nature: Terra Lodge and Nearby Outdoor Activities
Located less than a two-hour drive from Franklin, TN, TerraLodge offers a luxurious getaway nestled in nature. This unique lodging experience features a variety of accommodations, including modern cabins, cozy lodges, and luxury domes, all designed to provide comfort while being surrounded by the beauty of the outdoors. Terra Lodge provides the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, with wellness activities like outdoor yoga sessions, guided meditation, and more to enhance your connection with nature.
- Hiking: Hiking trails in the area vary in difficulty, making them accessible for both casual walkers and experienced hikers. Along the way, you can enjoy picturesque views, discover hidden waterfalls, and observe local wildlife.
- Kayaking: Kayaking Adventures of Tennessee offers guided kayaking tours and rentals that pair perfectly with a stay at Terra Lodge. Explore nearby rivers and lakes for a peaceful day on the water, or choose a more adventurous paddle.
- What to Bring: Comfortable outdoor gear, fishing equipment, a yoga mat, and a camera to capture the beautiful surroundings.
Golden Days of Summer: Outdoor Adventures Near Franklin, Tennessee
As summer draws to a close, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than by getting out and exploring the natural beauty that Williamson County and its surroundings have to offer. Whether you’re paddling down the Harpeth, camping under the stars at Montgomery Bell, or seeking thrills on the Ocoee River, there’s an adventure waiting for you. So pack your gear, gather your friends and family, and make the most of the golden days of summer!
