Top 5 Lakes around Smyrna
Lakes around Smyrna, Tennessee, are primarily defined by the expansive J. Percy Priest Reservoir, a significant feature in the region's natural landscape. This area is characterized by woodlands and rolling hills, providing a setting for various outdoor activities. The reservoir system offers opportunities for water-based recreation and access to surrounding parklands. Visitors can explore diverse natural features and recreational facilities within this environment.
Best lakes around Smyrna
- The most popular lakes is Long Hunter State Park, a lake area that boasts over 30 miles of shoreline on Percy Priest Lake. It is a location for boating, fishing, and swimming.
- Another must-see spot is J. Percy Priest Lake, a lake with clear water surrounded by woodlands and rolling hills. Visitors can expect sandy and rocky beaches, picnic areas, and opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and swimming.
- Visitors also love Bryant Grove Trail, a trail that winds through woodlands alongside J. Percy Priest Lake. It offers a flat and easy walk through peaceful surroundings, providing access to the lake and its scenic views.
- Smyrna is known for large reservoirs, state parks, and accessible trails. The area offers a variety of lakes and associated natural features to explore.
- The lakes around Smyrna are appreciated by the komoot community, with 4 upvotes and 5 photos contributed by users.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
Long Hunter State Park
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Bryant Grove Trail
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J. Percy Priest Lake
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Long Hunter State Park
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Sharp Springs Park
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The Bryant Grove Trail winds through the woodlands alongside J. Percy Priest Lake, extending to Couchville Lake. The trail is primarily composed of dirt and gravel, with sections of wooden boardwalks. It offers a flat and easy walk through peaceful surroundings, providing access to the lake and its scenic views.
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J. Percy Priest Lake was created by the construction of the J. Percy Priest Dam on the Stones River and spans over 14,000 acres. The lake features clear water surrounded by woodlands and rolling hills, with both sandy and rocky beaches, as well as picnic areas along its shores. In addition to the scenic trails that encircle the lake, it is good for fishing, kayaking, and swimming.
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Sharp Springs Park is a preserved area adjacent to Stones River. The park features a network of paved and gravel trails, along with wooden boardwalks. It encompasses woodlands and wetlands, with scenic ponds that offer a healthy habitat for a diverse range of birds and other wildlife.
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Long Hunter boasts over 30 miles of shoreline on Percy Priest Lake, making it a haven for boating, fishing (known for its large crappie population), and swimming. The park offers educational programs to connect visitors with the natural world and Tennessee's history.
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Long Hunter boasts over 30 miles of shoreline on Percy Priest Lake, making it a haven for boating, fishing (known for its large crappie population), and swimming. The park offers educational programs to connect visitors with the natural world and Tennessee's history.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main recreational activities available at J. Percy Priest Lake?
J. Percy Priest Lake offers a wide range of activities including fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Its clear waters are surrounded by woodlands and rolling hills, providing a scenic backdrop for outdoor recreation. The lake also features sandy and rocky beaches, as well as picnic areas.
Are there family-friendly options among the lakes near Smyrna?
Yes, several areas are family-friendly. Long Hunter State Park, which boasts over 30 miles of shoreline on Percy Priest Lake, is a haven for families, offering boating, fishing, and swimming. Sharp Springs Park also provides family-friendly trails and scenic ponds.
Can I go hiking near the lakes around Smyrna?
Absolutely. The area offers numerous hiking opportunities. For example, the Bryant Grove Trail winds through woodlands alongside J. Percy Priest Lake, offering a flat and easy walk. You can find more hiking options in the Hiking around Smyrna guide, which includes routes like the Jones Mill White Loop and Couchville Lake Trail.
What kind of natural features and wildlife can I expect to see?
The lakes around Smyrna are characterized by woodlands, rolling hills, and diverse natural habitats. At Sharp Springs Park, you can explore wetlands and scenic ponds that provide a healthy habitat for a variety of birds and other wildlife. J. Percy Priest Lake itself is surrounded by forests, offering opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
Are there dog-friendly trails or parks near the lakes?
Yes, many areas around the lakes are dog-friendly. Both J. Percy Priest Lake and Bryant Grove Trail are noted as dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the natural surroundings with your canine companion. Always ensure dogs are leashed and follow local regulations.
What are the best times to visit the lakes for outdoor activities?
The lakes are generally enjoyable throughout the warmer months for water activities like swimming, boating, and kayaking. For hiking and exploring the trails, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. The region's natural beauty can be appreciated year-round, but specific seasonal activities may vary.
Are there easy walking routes suitable for beginners or casual strolls?
Yes, there are several easy walking routes. The Bryant Grove Trail, for instance, is described as a flat and easy walk through peaceful woodlands alongside J. Percy Priest Lake. You can find more easy options in the Easy hikes around Smyrna guide.
What fishing opportunities are available at the lakes?
Fishing is a popular activity, especially at J. Percy Priest Reservoir. Long Hunter State Park is particularly known for its large crappie population. The reservoir system is also excellent for Smallmouth Bass and Striped Bass, making it a prime destination for anglers.
Are there opportunities for cycling near the lakes?
Yes, the area around Smyrna offers cycling routes. You can explore options in the Road Cycling Routes around Smyrna guide, which includes routes like the J. Percy Priest Lake loop.
What makes Long Hunter State Park a notable destination?
Long Hunter State Park is notable for its extensive shoreline on Percy Priest Lake, spanning over 30 miles. It's a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming, and also offers educational programs that connect visitors with the natural world and Tennessee's history.
Where can I find picnic areas around the lakes?
J. Percy Priest Lake features several picnic areas along its shores, providing ideal spots for a meal with scenic views. Many parks adjacent to the lakes, such as Long Hunter State Park, also offer picnic facilities.
Are there any designated swimming areas at the lakes?
Yes, J. Percy Priest Lake offers opportunities for swimming, with both sandy and rocky beaches available. Long Hunter State Park, situated on Percy Priest Lake, is also a popular spot for swimming.
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