Shutes Branch

About

Shutes Branch Recreation Area sits on the 22,500-acre Old Hickory Lake, a reservoir created by the Old Hickory Lock and Dam on the Cumberland River. Named after President Andrew Jackson's famous nickname, the lake provides 440 miles of scenic shoreline surrounded by wooded flatlands. The facility is operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and functions primarily as a day-use area rather than an overnight campground. The main reservable feature is a group picnic shelter that holds up to 50 guests and includes electric hookups, with a paved parking area accommodating up to 45 vehicles. Check-in is at 6:00 AM with checkout at 7:00 PM. Recreation opportunities include boating, fishing, and swimming, with a boat ramp and fishing platform on site. The Shutes Branch Mountain Biking Trail, accessed from the picnic area, offers terrain for all skill levels: the first section suits beginners while the second challenges experienced cyclists with rockier terrain, ledges, and tight turns.

Directions

From downtown Nashville, take I-40 E/I-65 S for 0.9 miles. Follow I-40 E for 12.2 miles, then take exit 221A. Take Andrew Jackson Pkwy, which turns into Saundersville Rd, for 6.5 miles. Shutes Branch Recreation Area will be on the right.