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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Tennessee

Picnics

A sunny afternoon is best spent laying out a blanket and enjoying a quiet picnic away from the noise.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Anderson Road Day Use image 1
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Sandy beach with shaded picnic areas offers space for grilling and relaxing. Kids love the playgrounds and watching ducks by the water. Quiet surroundings make it perfect for calm days and outdoor fun like kayaking.

Vast, clean picnic areas offer gorgeous natural views and include grills and picnic tables. Kids enjoy swimming, fishing, and watching ducks while having lunch.

People are saying

"The beach here has nice, soft sand and clean water."

"Parking available for $5, and they didn't take cash."

"The picnic areas are clean and have lots of shade trees."

Good to know

1

The beach entrance fee is $5 per car.

2

Arrive before 10 am to avoid crowds.

3

Bathrooms lock around 6:10-6:15 pm, despite posted hours.

02
Peay Park image 1

Fenced park features a covered picnic area with grill for meals and relaxation. Kids enjoy the splash pad with water toys and a playground with shaded seating. Sports lovers find pickleball and tennis courts in a safe, quiet setting.

A covered picnic area with a grill offers a spot to eat and relax. Kids can run around and burn energy nearby.

People are saying

"The splash pad is awesome and entertaining for kids."

"The splash pad playground was perfect for younger kids."

"It's a great place for a picnic to let the kids get energy out."

Good to know

1

Peay Park is free to access.

2

The park is completely fenced in for safety.

3

There are clean bathrooms located next to the playground.

03
Sharp Springs Park image 1

Large park offers extensive trails and multiple sports fields for active fun. Families enjoy huge picnic shelter and public grills near playgrounds and clean restrooms. Peaceful ponds and shaded paths create a scenic, relaxing spot for all ages.

A huge picnic shelter offers plenty of room, while multiple covered picnic tables sit behind well-maintained public bathrooms. Wide field areas with little foot traffic and numerous public grills add to the picnic options.

People are saying

"The playground here is close enough to watch the children easily."

"The parks here are really beautiful with lots to see."

"It's a great place for a picnic with long trails for exercise."

Good to know

1

The park includes disc golf courses, soccer fields, and greenway trails.

2

There are multiple well-maintained public bathrooms throughout the park.

3

Expect mosquitoes during the summer; bring repellent.

04
Bryant Grove Recreation Area image 1

Park features well-maintained picnic tables and grills perfect for outdoor meals. Shallow swimming area offers safe water fun. Walking trails and a quiet local retreat atmosphere make it ideal for family outings.

Well-maintained picnic areas include plenty of picnic tables and grills. Playground facilities and walking trails add to the outdoor setup.

People are saying

"It's a great local retreat for a picnic."

"The parks have picnic tables and grills for eating."

Good to know

1

The park has well-maintained picnic tables and grills for family gatherings.

2

Restrooms are clean and regularly maintained for visitor convenience.

3

The swimming area is shallow, with a maximum depth of 3 feet.

05
Red Caboose Park image 1

Bright-red train caboose anchors a large playground with inclusive ramps and adaptive swings for all kids. Plenty of picnic tables and pavilions support family gatherings near shaded play areas. Open fields and paved walkways offer space for running and strolling safely.

Plenty of picnic tables and pavilions support family gatherings and birthday parties. The area includes a playground near the picnic spots.

People are saying

"The playground here is modern, safe, and designed for kids of all ages."

"This playground is so kid friendly, with soft ground and plenty of shade."

"The playground is large, modern, and safe for all ages."

Good to know

1

The park has two play areas for kids, including an old caboose.

2

The playground is fenced in for safety.

3

Portapotties are available at the park.

06
Lock 4 Park - The Point image 1

Park by the lake offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere with plenty of clean picnic tables for relaxing. Trails suit all skill levels and wildlife sightings enhance the natural feel. Some picnic spots near the boat launch need cleaning but overall great for fishing and picnics.

Plenty of clean picnic tables and benches sit at the point, offering comfortable spots for relaxing and outdoor activities. Some picnic tables near the boat launch are filthy, but overall the area has great places to fish or picnic.

People are saying

"You'll find a beautiful view of the lake and scenery here."

"The mountain bike trails offer fun activities for every skill level."

"It's a beautiful spot for a picnic with a great view."

Good to know

1

The park closes at dusk unless you are fishing.

2

Parking is easy at the park.

3

Bathroom facilities are portajohns.

07
Nat Caldwell Park image 1

Park offers a peaceful atmosphere with views of wildlife by a lake despite nearby highway noise. Picnic areas include a small cabin and tables under an awning for covered seating. Ample parking and a picnic pavilion make it easy to settle in.

Ample parking and a picnic pavilion make it easy to settle in. Picnic tables under an awning and a small cabin with benches offer covered seating options.

People are saying

"I wish they'd enforce park cleanliness more strictly."

"You'll find picnic tables under an awning here."

Good to know

1

Nat Caldwell Park has ample parking available for visitors.

2

The park features a picnic pavilion for gatherings and meals.

3

Visitors may encounter cleanliness issues, particularly with dog waste.

08
Lone Branch Access Area image 1

Boat ramp and picnic shelters make it great for outdoor gatherings. Enjoy fishing and kayaking in a peaceful, clean setting. Plenty of parking and nearby restrooms add to the convenience.

Several picnic event shelters can be reserved for gatherings. Picnic tables and grills are available along with restrooms nearby.

People are saying

"It's a nice quiet place where you can't hear cars."

"It's a great place for a picnic and fishing."

"The bathrooms here are clean and nice."

Good to know

1

The area has picnic tables and clean restrooms available for visitors.

2

Lone Branch Access Area is great for fishing, boating, and picnics.

3

There is ample parking, including trailer spaces on busy weekends.

09
Ravenwood Park image 1

Open trails and elevated views create a calm countryside feel. Covered picnic tables and a large pavilion provide great spots for family meals. Multiple courts and an impressive climbing tower offer fun for all ages.

Covered picnic tables and a pavilion offer shaded spots for lunches and family gatherings. Plenty of seating surrounds the playground, letting parents relax while kids play.

People are saying

"The playground's climbing tower with slides is awesome for kids."

"The park's walking paths offer beautiful scenery and diverse landscapes."

"It's a beautiful park with rolling hills, perfect for a picnic."

Good to know

1

The park features multiple walking trails with varying difficulty levels.

2

There are portable restrooms available, but no permanent facilities.

3

The playground equipment is suitable for all ages, making it family-friendly.

10
Gregory Mill Park image 1

Park blends quiet trails with ample shade over picnic tables, perfect for peaceful meals. Kids enjoy the fenced splash pad while adults relax near the tranquil creek and waterfall. Spacious grilling spots make it ideal for casual gatherings.

Lots of picnic tables sit under ample shade. Trails run nearby, offering views of a creek and falls.

People are saying

"It's a nice park for walks or picnics with a pretty creek."

"It's so kid friendly with a great splash pad for water play."

"It's a great place for walking your dog on the trails."

Good to know

1

The splash pad is in a fenced area with benches for parents.

2

The farmers market is every Saturday from early till 2pm.

3

An ice cream truck drives through the park around 4 or 5 PM.

11
Couchville Lake Trailhead image 1

Park features shaded picnic tables perfect for casual meals. Paved, tree-lined trails offer easy walking for all ages. Families enjoy the playground and fishing piers in a peaceful, safe setting.

Shaded spots with picnic tables create a comfortable area for eating outdoors. The space offers a simple setup for casual gatherings.

People are saying

"I found the views here to be beautiful, especially from the pier."

"It's a Kid Friendly place with a beautiful, easy paved walk around the lake."

"It's a great spot for a family picnic around the lake."

Good to know

1

The trail is currently closed, so check for updates before visiting.

2

The paved walkway around the lake is suitable for an easy hike.

3

The park is family-friendly, perfect for kids and casual outdoor activities.

12
Walter Hill Dam image 1
Historical landmark

Rocky river access offers easy wading and quiet atmosphere for fishing and relaxing. Plenty of parking and picnic spaces support casual outdoor meals, though picnic tables are set back from water and lack grills. Ideal for peaceful walks and pet outings.

Lots of parking and picnic spaces make it easy to settle in. Picnic tables exist but are not right by the water, and there are no grills at the tables.

People are saying

"It's a good spot for fishing and spending time with family."

"I noticed the new parking lot and entrance."

"There were lots of picnic spaces and tables available."

Good to know

1

Wear water shoes to protect your feet from sharp rocks in the water.

2

Access to the river and dam is easy and convenient.

3

Fishing is allowed, but signs advise against eating the fish due to mercury contamination.

13
Old Hickory Beach image 1

Man-made beach offers a designated swimming area and calm waters for fishing and boating. Picnic spots include shaded tables and charcoal grills near two pavilions. Families enjoy the small playground and peaceful, well-kept surroundings.

Plenty of picnic tables sit under shade trees with charcoal grills nearby. Two pavilions offer covered spots for parties, and bathrooms are available close by.

People are saying

"It's a great spot for a family picnic with safe swimming for kids."

"I found the beach to be nice and good for relaxation."

"I loved the amazing beach views and the sky."

Good to know

1

The entrance fee is $2 per person or $5 per car.

2

There is no lifeguard on duty; swim at your own risk.

3

The park closes at 7 pm, with water access ending at 6:30 pm.

14
Sanders Ferry Parks image 1

Park offers stunning lake views and well-manicured grounds perfect for relaxation and family fun. Multiple picnic shelters and grills sit near playgrounds and a fishing pier, making outdoor meals easy and enjoyable. Activities include disc golf and boating from the ramp.

Beautiful and varied grounds offer multiple picnic shelters and grills. Plenty of picnic tables sit near paths, playgrounds, and a fishing pier for a relaxed outdoor meal.

People are saying

"You can catch beautiful lake views from this spot, perfect for a picnic."

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with lots of space for kids to play."

"The restrooms here are surprisingly clean."

Good to know

1

Dogs are allowed at the park, making it pet-friendly.

2

There is a handicap-accessible boat ramp available.

3

Expect stop-and-go traffic during events due to the one-way road.

15
Owl Creek Park image 1

City park features a paved walking trail through wetlands and a playground with multiple structures for kids. Picnic spots include tables under a roof near restrooms and a basketball court for extra fun. Quiet, family-friendly, with shaded paths and benches.

Picnic areas include tables under a roof and spots near the playground. Restrooms are nearby, making it convenient for families. The park also has a basketball court close to the picnic spaces.

People are saying

"The parks here are always so clean and well kept."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with a playground and basketball court."

"The bathrooms here are clean."

Good to know

1

Plenty of parking is available at Owl Creek Park.

2

Restrooms are clean and well-maintained.

3

The playground features swings and climbing toys for children.

16
Floydโ€™s Burger Joint image 1
Fast food restaurant

Drive-thru burger spot shines with neon green lights and a retro-modern aesthetic. Outdoor picnic tables invite relaxed dining under old-school vibes. Friendly staff add charm with pup cups, making it great for quick bites and casual picnics.

Picnic tables outside offer a spot to enjoy food in the open air. The drive-thru setup makes it easy to grab food and head out for a picnic.

People are saying

"These burgers are juicy, flavorful, and better than fast food."

"I thought the onion rings and fries were amazing."

"I loved the smash burgers and onion rings for my picnic."

Good to know

1

Floyd's is drive-thru only with no indoor seating available.

2

Expect a wait time of about 5 cars during peak hours.

3

The cost of a burger combo meal is around $13.

17
Deerwood Arboretum & Nature Center image 1

Paved, shaded trails wind through a small arboretum with labeled trees and a creekside setting. Picnic area offers free entry and a shelter near restrooms. Quiet, peaceful atmosphere suits easy walks and family outings.

Free entry and no wait times make it easy to enjoy the picnic area. The spot offers a beautiful setting with a shelter and nearby restrooms.

People are saying

"I enjoyed a peaceful picnic lunch under the shaded paths."

"It's a peaceful Meditation Spot with a beautiful, quiet walk."

"I found it to be a hidden gem with a private feel."

Good to know

1

The entrance to the arboretum is free.

2

There is limited parking available at the arboretum.

3

The walking trail is paved and mostly shaded, suitable for families.

18
Percy Priest Lake Park image 1

Massive park offers shaded picnic areas by a man-made lake with stunning sunsets. Space suits picnics and quiet hiking with dog-friendly spots. Water activities add fun beyond just eating outdoors.

Plenty of space with shaded picnic areas, tables, and BBQs sits by a beautiful lake. One side suits picnics well but offers little else to do.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the beautiful scenery and peaceful lake views."

"It's a beautiful spot with shaded picnic areas and tables."

"It's peaceful and quiet, even with a crowd."

Good to know

1

The park has no bathrooms or picnic areas available.

2

Parking is usually easy to find during weekdays.

3

The park is dog friendly, but dogs must be on a leash.

19
Shutes Branch Recreation Area image 1

Park offers quiet atmosphere with picnic tables near water views. Fishing docks and boat ramps support boating and fishing. Bird Island lies close, adding to the peaceful setting.

Plenty of picnic tables and some grills sit near short walkways. Bird Island lies just across from the picnic area.

People are saying

"The bathrooms here are clean and don't have any unpleasant odors."

"There's plenty of spacious parking available."

"There are a lot of picnic tables available here."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of free parking at the recreation area.

2

The restrooms are clean and recently updated.

3

The area can be busy during weekends and holidays.

20
General Bragg Trailhead image 1

Paved trails run by a flowing river offer scenic walks and access to historical sites. Large pavilion with four big picnic tables and barbecue grills supports family meals. New playground and fenced dog park add fun and space for pets.

A large pavilion with four big picnic tables seats about forty people. Picnic tables, barbecue grills, and water stations support outdoor meals and gatherings.

People are saying

"It's a great spot for a picnic with large pavilions and plenty of tables."

"It's a brand new playground with a nice floor."

"You can see the General Bragg monument of cannonballs at this historic spot."

Good to know

1

Parking is plentiful and easily accessible from the main road.

2

The restrooms are clean and well-maintained.

3

The trail runs along the water, offering scenic views.

21
Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park image 1

Wide open spaces and scenic walking paths make it perfect for picnics. Historical monuments and a 95-Bell Carillon add charm and energy. Shaded paths and a granite state map invite exploration and relaxation.

Open spaces and scenic walking paths create great picnic spots. The amphitheater and surrounding architecture add to a relaxing atmosphere for a picnic or quiet afternoon.

People are saying

"I found the historical sites here really educational and informative."

"I found the park to be beautiful and well maintained."

"It's a beautiful place for a picnic, with stunning design and rich history."

Good to know

1

The park hosts various events, including movies on Thursday nights.

2

New Year's Eve celebrations feature live performances and fireworks.

3

Parking is free and easy to access near the park.

22
Pinkerton Park image 1

Large park blends old school charm with modern playgrounds and wheelchair accessible equipment. Open fields and covered pavilions provide ample picnic space near playgrounds. Mature trees and a butterfly garden create a peaceful, family-friendly vibe.

Open fields and covered pavilions offer plenty of space for picnics. Numerous picnic tables and nearby playgrounds make it easy to enjoy meals with family or groups.

People are saying

"It's a really kid-friendly place with a huge playground."

"It's dog friendly with lots of green space for play."

"It's a great place for picnics with huge playgrounds for kids."

Good to know

1

Pinkerton Park has a single point of entry and is entirely fenced for safety.

2

The park is wheelchair accessible, making it easy for everyone to enjoy.

3

Parking is convenient during festivals, ensuring easy access to the park.

23
Mill Ridge Park image 1

Playgrounds boast Nashville's tallest slide and unique designs for all ages. Green spaces and picnic areas offer spots to relax and eat. Nearby basketball courts and walking trails keep everyone active and entertained.

Green space and picnic areas provide spots to relax and eat. Nearby play areas for kids and basketball courts add activity options during picnics.

People are saying

"This playground is pretty massive and nicely designed."

"The playground's unique architecture is beautiful and fun for all ages."

"It's a great spot for picnics and family fun with the kids."

Good to know

1

Free yoga classes are offered on Saturday mornings.

2

Movies in the park are hosted during the summer months.

3

Visitors should be cautious of ticks and snakes in the area.

24
Long Hunter State Park image 1

State park blends lake views with picnic tables by the water. Trails with benches invite easy hikes. Playground adds fun for families seeking both nature and play.

Tables sit beside the lake offering a quiet picnic spot with nice scenery. Playground and picnic areas add a pleasant touch to the experience.

People are saying

"The park trails are well-marked and well-maintained."

"I enjoyed the beautiful lake views and awesome scenery."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with well-marked trails."

Good to know

1

The paved trail is wheelchair- and stroller-friendly.

2

There is plenty of parking available.

3

The park hosts a native American pow wow during the fall.

25
Hamilton Creek Recreation Area image 1

Park features beautiful lake views perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking. Trails offer challenging mountain biking and hiking in peaceful surroundings. Open spaces with well-maintained picnic tables invite relaxed, family-friendly gatherings.

Open space and well-maintained picnic tables create a pleasant spot for picnics. The area stays open late, supporting evening gatherings with a clean and family-friendly environment.

People are saying

"You'll find amazing outdoor activities and beautiful views here."

"It's a peaceful spot, tucked away from the noise."

"I found several nice picnic tables available."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult by late afternoon when the lot fills up.

2

Bring closed-toed shoes due to broken glass on the ground.

3

Bathrooms are only open during the summer season.

26
Barfield Crescent Park image 1

Spacious park offers huge trails and a peaceful atmosphere for outdoor lovers. Families enjoy kid-friendly playgrounds and a disc golf course. Large covered areas with tons of picnic tables make hosting gatherings easy and fun.

Huge covered areas with tons of picnic tables make it easy to host parties and family gatherings. Large open fields and playgrounds sit near well-maintained picnic shelters and two huge picnic tables.

People are saying

"It's a great spot for hiking and bringing your dogs on leash."

"The playground here is really nice with plenty to do."

"It's a great spot for a picnic with plenty of covered tables."

Good to know

1

The park has clean restrooms available for visitors.

2

Barfield Crescent Park features walking and running trails for outdoor activities.

3

Murfreesboro PD patrols the park, ensuring a safe environment.

27
Moss-Wright Park image 1

Expansive park features multiple picnic areas with benches and grills, perfect for gatherings. Extensive walking trails and sports fields offer plenty of activity options. A large woodland-themed playground and calm creek create a peaceful, family-friendly space.

Multiple picnic areas with benches and grills spread throughout the park offer plenty of space. An impressive picnic pavilion provides a covered spot for gatherings.

People are saying

"It's a huge park with lots of sports fields and walking trails."

"It's a really fun place with a great playground for kids."

"There are plenty of picnic tables and areas available."

Good to know

1

The park has a clean bathroom facility available for visitors.

2

There is plenty of shaded parking available near the park.

3

Dogs are not allowed on the trails; they must be kept in the dog park.

28
Aspen Grove Park image 1

Paved trail winds under a tree canopy beside a creek, perfect for quiet walks. Picnic pavilion with six tables and nearby playground make it great for family meals. Small size and limited parking keep it a cozy spot for local outings.

A pavilion with six picnic tables offers a clean spot for group gatherings. Benches and picnic tables line the walk, and a playground nearby makes it easy to picnic with kids.

People are saying

"The walking trail is clean, paved, and perfect for a peaceful walk."

"I found the walk along the creek to be very peaceful and shady."

"I enjoyed a peaceful walk on the clean, paved trails."

Good to know

1

The park is pet-friendly, allowing dogs on leashes.

2

The parking lot is small but always has a free spot.

3

The park offers clean restrooms on site.

29
Lock 3 Recreation Area image 1

Beach faces west with spectacular sunsets and stays quiet, perfect for family picnics. Three picnic tables, two shaded with grills, keep the area clean and inviting. Free, ample parking adds to the hidden gem feel for local visitors.

Three picnic tables sit in the area, with two in shaded spots and one movable to shade. Two tables have a small grill nearby. Tables stay fairly clean, making it suitable for family picnics.

People are saying

"I found the beach here to be clean."

"I saw the most gorgeous sunset here."

"It's a great place for a picnic, and the grandkids had a blast."

Good to know

1

Parking at Lock 3 Recreation Area is free.

2

Lifejackets are available for use at the beach.

3

The men's bathroom is clean and well-maintained.

30
Cook Day Use Area image 1

Park offers ample picnic tables under covered shades and a small beach for relaxing. Calm lake invites swimming and fishing while playgrounds keep kids busy. Quiet trails suit peaceful hikes with a steady breeze enhancing the outdoor feel.

Plenty of picnic tables and shade shelters make it easy to set up for a meal outdoors. The area also offers a small beach and space to relax by the water.

People are saying

"This park is a beautiful, amazing gem for a swim."

"It's a nice, quiet place away from the city."

"It's a great spot with plenty of picnic tables and shade."

Good to know

1

It costs $5 per vehicle to enter, or $40 for a season pass.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Expect a crowded swimming area on weekends; arrive early for a better experience.

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