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Access Site TN

Drakes Creek

Drakes Creek - Old Hickory Lake

Source: tennessee_wildlife_resources_agency Updated 1 year ago

City: Hendersonville, TN
County: Sumner County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 36.29680687, -86.61340499
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
About This Access Site
Drakes Creek offers convenient public access to Old Hickory Lake near Hendersonville, just east of Nashville. This established access point serves kayakers, canoeists, and motorized boaters looking to explore one of the Tennessee Valley's most popular recreation lakes. The ramp provides straightforward launch access to a large, stable reservoir ideal for paddlers of all skill levels seeking calm water paddling and fishing opportunities.

The Drakes Creek area features a full-service marina (Sun Life Drakes Creek Marina) with amenities including fuel docks, a ship's store, and boat storage options—useful if you're planning an extended visit or need supplies. The surrounding Cedar Creek Campground offers 60 campsites for those wanting to combine paddling with overnight recreation. Directions from Nashville are straightforward: take I-40 east to exit 221A, then follow TN-45/Old Hickory Boulevard to US-70, turning left onto Nonaville Road toward Saundersville Road. For specific details about ramp hours, current conditions, or facility fees, contact the local park office at 615-754-4947.
Federal Facility Information
615-754-4947 Free Access Reservations Available

Overview
Cedar Creek Campground on Old Hickory Lake in north-central Tennessee, offers 60 campsites and limitless options for activities like boating, hiking, fishing and relaxing on the swim beach. A picnic shelter located in the day use area may also be reserved on weekdays throughout the summer.

The lake is named after the 7th U.S. President, Andrew Jackson, a Tennessee-native who earned...

Overview
Cedar Creek Campground on Old Hickory Lake in north-central Tennessee, offers 60 campsites and limitless options for activities like boating, hiking, fishing and relaxing on the swim beach. A picnic shelter located in the day use area may also be reserved on weekdays throughout the summer.

The lake is named after the 7th U.S. President, Andrew Jackson, a Tennessee-native who earned the nickname "Old Hickory," because of his tough, aggressive personality.Recreation
Sailing, swimming and fishing are popular activities for visitors interested in water sports, while birders and wildlife viewers will delight in the abundance of migratory songbirds, waterfowl and white-tailed deer. Wild turkeys and rabbits also frequent the area.Facilities
Modern amenities such as laundry facilities and hot showers are available for a more comfortable camping experience. Sites also come with water and electric hookups for added convenience.
Families will enjoy the playground, and visitors looking to entertain will find the group picnic shelter, which accommodates up to 50 guests, to be an excellent gathering spot. Parking, however, is not guaranteed.Natural Features
Old Hickory Lake is a 22,500 acre reservoir, primarily fed by the waters of the Cumberland River. The lake is surrounded by shady wooded areas and grassy flatlands, and offers an impressive 440 miles of scenic shoreline.
Nearby Attractions
Cedar Creek is just beyond the Nashville metropolitan area. Head to the "Music City" to tour the Country Music Hall of Fame or explore former President, Andrew Jackson's early 19th century home, "The Hermitage," a National Historic Landmark. Also located just minutes from the park is the Shutes Branch Mountain Bike Trail.Charges & Cancellations
* Once your reservation has been created, there will be a $10.00 fee to cancel and a $10.00 fee to change your site or dates.
* Cancellations made the day before, or up to the day after your arrival date will also be charged the first nights use fee.
* No-Shows are charged a $20.00 fee plus the first nights use fee.
* If your reservation is for 1 night, and you have been charged the first nights use fee, there is no $10.00 service fee.

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