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Picnic spots

A picnic spot that offers enough room to spread out without feeling like you are sitting in someone else's lap.

Based on 592 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
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.

03
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.

04
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.

05
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.

06
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.

07
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.

08
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.

09
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.

10
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.

11
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.

12
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.

13
Nashville Shores Waterpark image 1

Waterpark offers stunning water views and a spacious layout with a beach, wave pool, and lazy river. Families enjoy exciting water slides and kid-friendly pools. Renting a picnic shelter makes it easy to bring your own food and relax by the water.

Renting a picnic shelter makes it easy to find a spot to set up. Bringing your own food works well for a picnic here.

People are saying

"It's a fun place with activities for kids of all ages."

"The parks here are so well run, with staff constantly cleaning and assisting."

"You can get season passes and have a blast all summer."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $18, which can be a surprise for visitors.

2

Bring your own towels as they cost $27 each at the park.

3

The waterpark is only open on weekends, limiting visit options.

14
Two Rivers Campground image 1

RV campground offers full hookups and live music by the pool for a lively yet peaceful night. Picnic sites feature level cement pads with sturdy tables and strict garbage and pet policies. Shuttle service to downtown adds convenience without freeway noise.

Sites have level cement pads with nice picnic tables. Rules include fees for moving tables and strict garbage and pet policies.

People are saying

"They had live music nightly from 7 to 9 pm."

"The bathrooms here are always clean and have hot water."

"The staff here are so friendly and helpful for your picnic."

Good to know

1

Live music happens every night from 7 to 9 pm behind the office.

2

The campground offers a $10 shuttle service to downtown Nashville.

3

Restrooms and showers are clean and well-maintained.

15
Cedar Hill Park image 1

Spacious grounds feature multiple sports fields and play areas for kids. Large pavilions overlook a peaceful pond, perfect for picnic tables and group fun. Walking trails add to the serene, family-friendly atmosphere.

Plenty of picnic tables and seating areas make it easy to gather. Shelters and a playground add comfort and fun for groups.

People are saying

"The playgrounds here are clean, safe, and offer plenty of fun activities."

"I found the walking trails so peaceful and scenic."

"It's a great place for a picnic with plenty of seating."

Good to know

1

Cedar Hill Park offers activities like fishing, hiking, biking, basketball, and playgrounds.

2

The park has picnic tables and grills available for rent for events.

3

The bathrooms at Cedar Hill Park are lacking and need improvement.

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