Tennessee / Smith County

Tailwater Rec Area

Closed — Closed for the season. The day-use area operates seasonally, typically closed during winter months.

About

Tailwater Recreation Area is located just below Cordell Hull Lake and Dam on the Cumberland River System, outside the town of Carthage, Tennessee. Named after one of Tennessee's most distinguished statesmen, Cordell Hull, the area offers access to the 12,000-acre lake with 72 miles of river stretch and 381 miles of shoreline. The day-use area features one large group shelter equipped with flush toilets, drinking water, a playground, interpretive trail, and boat ramp. The Cumberland River below the dam provides excellent boating and fishing opportunities, with anglers targeting white bass, rockfish, largemouth bass, catfish, shad, and crappie in the tailwater. The park is wooded with a diverse mix of maple, hickory, oak, beech, and chestnut trees situated among scenic rolling hills. Wildlife is abundant throughout the area, with frequent sightings of whitetail deer, wild turkeys, quail, squirrels, rabbits, and various waterfowl species. Summer temperatures typically range from the 60s to the 90s.

Directions

From I-40, take Exit 258, travel north on Highway 53/25, turn right on SR-26 and travel for 2 miles. Turn right on Corps Lane and follow signs into recreation area.

Nearby Campgrounds