Discover Old Hickory Lake
Fun facts, history and the best ways to enjoy Old Hickory Lake.
If you’re planning a boat adventure with Yeehaw Yacht Club, there’s no better backdrop than Old Hickory Lake. Located just 25 miles north of Nashville, this stunning reservoir on the Cumberland River offers endless fun on the water, world-class fishing, scenic shoreline views, and plenty of local history to explore.
What Makes Old Hickory Lake special?
1. A massive Tennessee reservoir
Old Hickory Lake spans roughly 22,500 acres of water with a shoreline stretching over 440 miles—making it one of Middle Tennessee’s largest and most visited lakes.
2. A historic name with Presidential roots
The lake and the Old Hickory Lock and Dam are named after President Andrew Jackson, nicknamed “Old Hickory” for his toughness. Jackson lived nearby at The Hermitage, and his legacy still echoes throughout the region.
3. Built for purpose and recreation
Created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers between the early 1950s and 1957, this lake serves multiple roles:
Flood control
Commercial and recreational navigation
Hydroelectric power generation
Wildlife habitat conservation
4. A playground for boaters and water lovers
Whether you’re cruising on a pontoon or racing across the water on a ski boat, Old Hickory Lake is ideal for all styles of boating. With several marinas and boat access points around the shoreline, getting out on the water is easy and fun.
Top outdoor activities at Old Hickory Lake
Fishing paradise
Anglers flock here for excellent fishing year-round. Species in the lake include:
Largemouth and smallmouth bass
Striped and white bass
Crappie
Catfish
Sauger and more
Old Hickory even held a world record walleye catch weighing over 25 pounds!
Boating, swimming & watersports
From serene paddleboarding and kayaking to swimming at sandy beaches like Old Hickory Beach, there’s something for water lovers of all ages.
Campgrounds & hiking trails
The lake area features multiple campgrounds, picnic spots and short nature trails where families can enjoy scenic walks, wildlife viewing and outdoor gatherings.
Nature & wildlife hotspots
Visit the Old Hickory Lake Arboretum, which showcases over 60 native plant species, or explore Bledsoe Creek State Park with its hiking trails, wildlife areas and waterfront access.
Why we loves Old Hickory Lake
Old Hickory Lake isn’t just a great place to visit—it’s a community centerpiece. Hendersonville and nearby towns thrive around this waterway with local parks, marinas, restaurants and beach access points that make outdoor living easily accessible. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor from Nashville, this lake is a Tennessee gem worth exploring.
Plan your next boat trip with Yeehaw Yacht Club
Yeehaw Yacht Club is the best way to experience Old Hickory Lake—where wide-open water, hidden coves, and laid-back lake vibes come together. Our captained pontoon charters let you kick back, turn up the music and soak in everything that makes this lake legendary.