Fishing and boating enthusiasts will find direct water access at this Army Corps of Engineers campground on Old Hickory Lake. Shutes Branch requires boat-in or walk-in access, with electric and water hookups available at sites nestled in forested terrain near the creek and lake shore.
The $50 nightly rate includes drinking water, a dump station, picnic tables, and firewood availability. Cell service reaches the area, and alcohol is permitted, though pets are not allowed. For additional camping options in the region, see campgrounds near Old Hickory Recreation Area. Book ahead during peak fishing seasons when anglers frequent the waters.
Description
Overview
Shutes Branch is located on the popular Old Hickory Lake, just a short drive outside of Nashville. There's plenty of opportunities for boating, biking, swimming and fishing, as well as sailing.
Recreation
Bikers of all skills levels will enjoy the Shutes Branch Mountain Biking Trail, accessed from the picnic area. The first part of the trail is ideal for beginners, while the second portion will challenge more experienced cyclists with rockier terrain, ledges and tight turns. With its close vicinity to the water, Fishing and swimming are consistently popular activities at Shutes Branch.
Facilities
Shutes Branch offers various picnic sites, a boat launch and fishing platform. The reservable group picnic shelter holds 50 guests and comes with electric hookups.
Natural Features
Old Hickory Lake is a 22,500 acre reservoir created by the Old Hickory Lock and Dam on the Cumberland River. The lake is named after former president Andrew Jackson, a Tennessee-native nicknamed "Old Hickory" for his tough and aggressive personality. The lake features 440 miles of scenic shoreline, surrounded by wooded flatlands and plenty of access points.
Nearby Attractions
Nearby fishing piers attract anglers at Rockland, Sanders Ferry, Shutes Branch and Bledsoe Creek State Park. History buffs will enjoy a day trip to The Hermitage, a National Historic Landmark and home of former president, Andrew Jackson, during the early 19th century.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundShutes Branch is located in Tennessee
Directions
From downtown Nashville get on I-40 E/I-65 S for .9 miles. Follow I-40 E for 12.2 miles and then take exit 221A from I-40 E. Take Andrew Jackson Pkwy which turns into Saundersville Rd for 6.5 miles. Shutes Branch Recreation Area will be located on the right side of the road.
Coordinates
36.247679 N
86.570267 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 4/4/26
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 4/4/26
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Alcohol
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
Drive Time
- 22 min from Nashville, TN
- 58 min from Clarksville, TN
- 1 hr 2 min from Bowling Green, KY
- 1 hr 55 min from Huntsville, AL
