Paddle Board Destinations in Tennessee: Scenic Rivers, Lakes & Music City Views
Tennessee, the Volunteer State, is best known for its music, whiskey, and mountain landscapes—but it’s also a rising star in the paddle boarding world. From the urban waters of Nashville’s Cumberland River to the tranquil lakes of the Smokies, Tennessee offers a diverse range of SUP experiences. Whether you're chasing rapids, practicing yoga on glassy lakes, or fishing from your board, this state delivers unforgettable adventures for every skill level.
Cumberland River – Nashville
- Location: Tennessee
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: River
- Launch Points: Shelby Park, Riverfront Park
- Amenities: Rentals, parking, restrooms, live music nearby
- Best Season: Spring to Fall
Paddle through downtown Nashville with skyline views and live country music echoing from nearby venues. Watch for commercial boat traffic and enjoy a unique urban SUP experience.
Percy Priest Lake
- Location: Near Nashville, Tennessee
- Difficulty Level: Beginner
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Hamilton Creek, Nashville Paddle Co.
- Amenities: Rentals, camping, hiking, parking
- Best Season: Summer
This 14,000-acre reservoir offers calm waters, limestone cliffs, and 24 islands to explore. Ideal for SUP yoga, fishing, and overnight camping adventures.
Old Hickory Lake
- Location: North of Nashville, Tennessee
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Intermediate
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Nashville SUP & Yoga, local marinas
- Amenities: Rentals, SUP yoga, camping, fishing
- Best Season: Spring to Fall
Spanning 22,500 acres, Old Hickory Lake is perfect for long-distance paddling, SUP yoga, and family outings. Its flat water and scenic shoreline make it a favorite among locals.
Lake Ocoee (Parksville Lake)
- Location: Cherokee National Forest, Tennessee
- Difficulty Level: Beginner
- Water Type: Lake
- Launch Points: Ocoee Paddleboarding
- Amenities: Rentals, wildlife viewing, parking
- Best Season: Summer
Surrounded by Appalachian mountains, Lake Ocoee offers calm waters, waterfalls, and wildlife sightings. A peaceful retreat for nature lovers and beginner paddlers.
Collins River
- Location: Central Tennessee
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: River
- Launch Points: Granville Paddle and Board
- Amenities: Rentals, fishing access, scenic bridges
- Best Season: Spring to Fall
One of Tennessee’s most scenic rivers, Collins River features waterfalls, limestone ledges, and muskie fishing. Paddle past charming farms and riverfront homes.
Watauga River
- Location: Eastern Tennessee
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Water Type: River
- Launch Points: Fish Springs Marina
- Amenities: Rentals, fishing, scenic cliffs
- Best Season: Spring to Fall
Flowing through limestone cliffs and farmland, the Watauga River offers smooth paddling and excellent trout fishing. A great mix of scenery and sport.
Hiwassee River
- Location: Southeastern Tennessee
- Difficulty Level: Beginner to Advanced
- Water Type: River
- Launch Points: Apalachia Powerhouse, Reliance
- Amenities: Rentals, historical sites, wildlife
- Best Season: Spring to Fall
With Class I–II rapids and flatwater sections, the Hiwassee River is ideal for all skill levels. Paddle past historic landmarks and dramatic cliffs.
Tennessee River Gorge
- Location: Chattanooga, Tennessee
- Difficulty Level: Intermediate to Advanced
- Water Type: River
- Launch Points: Coolidge Park, Chickamauga Dam
- Amenities: Rentals, hiking trails, wildlife viewing
- Best Season: Summer
Designated a National Scenic River Trail, this 50-mile stretch offers urban paddling, wildlife preserves, and whitewater thrills. A must-paddle for adventure seekers.
Tellico River
- Location: Southeastern Tennessee
- Difficulty Level: Advanced
- Water Type: River (Whitewater)
- Launch Points: Cherohala Skyway access
- Amenities: Parking, scenic overlooks
- Best Season: Spring
Featuring Class II–IV rapids and waterfalls like Baby Falls, Tellico River is for experienced paddlers seeking adrenaline and dramatic scenery.
Summary of Paddle Board Locations in Tennessee
Tennessee offers a rich tapestry of paddle boarding destinations. Beginners can enjoy calm lakes