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J Percy Priest Lake - COE/Poole Knobs

Overview

Poole Knobs Campground, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, offers a serene lakeside escape on the peninsula of J. Percy Priest Lake. Located near La Vergne, Tennessee, this park provides a classic outdoor experience with spacious, wooded campsites. It is well-regarded for its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to expansive water recreation. Visitors often choose this location for its natural beauty and the opportunity to disconnect while remaining within a short drive of urban conveniences. The park maintains a tranquil environment that emphasizes the natural landscape of the region.

Location & Surroundings

The park is situated on a peninsula surrounded by the vast 14,000-acre reservoir, providing stunning water views and a cooling breeze throughout the warmer months. The surrounding landscape features dense hardwood forests and limestone bluffs typical of Middle Tennessee. While the park feels secluded, it is conveniently located near La Vergne and Smyrna, making it easy to stock up on supplies or explore local dining. The shoreline access is a primary draw for those who enjoy waking up to the sound of the lake and seeing local wildlife.

Amenities & Park Features

Poole Knobs features nearly 90 campsites, most of which include electric and water hookups for RVers. While there are no sewer hookups at individual sites, a convenient dump station is available for all guests. The park provides essential facilities to ensure a comfortable stay, including:

  • Clean bathhouses with hot showers and flush toilets.
  • A private boat ramp and fishing pier for easy lake access.
  • Shaded picnic areas and fire rings at every campsite.

These features maintain a balance between modern necessity and a traditional outdoor camping atmosphere, allowing for a comfortable yet rugged stay.

Nearby Attractions & Things to Do

Beyond the park boundaries, visitors can explore the vibrant city of Nashville, located just a 30-minute drive away. This provides easy access to the Grand Ole Opry and the historic Ryman Auditorium. Locally, the Long Hunter State Park offers additional miles of hiking trails and birdwatching opportunities. Water sports are the main event here, with the lake being a premier destination for sailing, jet skiing, and catching hybrid striped bass or crappie.

Who This Park Is Best For

This campground is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts who prefer a rustic, nature-focused environment over a commercial resort. It is a perfect fit for boaters and anglers who want immediate water access for their vessels. Because of the spacious sites and quiet nights, it is also a great choice for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore the Nashville area without staying in the city center. If you value tall trees, waterfront vistas, and a slower pace of life, this COE park is an excellent selection for your Tennessee itinerary.

Amenities

- Recreational Facilities

• Lake
• Fishing
• Ramp
• Body Of Water (J Percy Priest Lake)
• Kayaking/Canoeing
• Watersports

- Policies

• Pets Welcome
• Day Max Stay (14)
• Tent Camping Allowed

- Other Amenities & Services

• Restroom and Showers
• Laundry

- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)

• Archery Range
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Boating
• Kayaking/Canoeing

- Facility

• Type (Public Corps)
• Partial Handicap Access

- Hunting Nearby (within 20 miles)

• Season: Winter,Spring,Fall

- On-Site Rentals

• 

- Sites

• Spaces Available (69)
• Max Length (30)
• Gravel Sites (69)
• 50 Amp
• Electric (46)
• No Hookups (23)
• Max Amps (50)
• Back-ins (15 x 30)

User Reviews

Carly Maughan

August 22, 2025

It’s a great location outside of Nashville and the lake views are stunning. Campsites are a decent size but they are all gravel (tent campers). Our picnic table had a bunch of broken glass underneath it.

T Koedel

August 12, 2025

Not far from Nashville and you won't forget it with the airplanes flying over your site. The camp host's were super friendly. The campground is clean. Not a lot of spots for the dogs to potty. The bath houses were clean and I used the showers several times during our 12 day stay. A lot of traffic as there is one way in and one way out. That's if you're not tent camping. Tent campers have there own loop. We have a travel trailer. Can't complain about the cost because I'm a disabled veteran and get a 50% discount.

Zach Vickers

August 04, 2025

What a beautiful Campground. Only thing that could make it better is a playground. Bathrooms were clean (for a campground). Staff was friendly. Grills were operable, easy access to lake from campsite. Local police routinely drive through. Will definitely be back!

Cori Thornton

July 23, 2025

We stayed in site 41 which was a pull-through with water and 50 amp. There was a slight hill to get into our site but was easy to level. Although not waterfront, we had a great view of the lake. Our AT&T service worked great and we got 74 OTA channels.

Toni Rompasky

May 13, 2025

This campground is beautiful, quiet, clean! Is handicap accessible. The bathrooms are cleaned and stocked! The water sites are $100 more than the ones up the hill. It has rained but the old trees cover you in most places. I have a lot on my plate, and coming here has helped me step away and regroup. I wish I could have met up with people here. However, this place is not as full as I would expect it to be. There is a wonderful couple that manages the campsite. They will show once a day to be sure all is well with your stay! It is totally recommended for all reasons to get away and join the outside living!

Map for J Percy Priest Lake - COE/Poole Knobs

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