About Tims Ford State Park

Tims Ford Lake State Park

The Tims Ford Lake State Park is located on the Tims Ford Lake. The 3,546-acre Tims Ford State park sits in the shadows of the Cumberland Plateau in south-central Tennessee. The Tims Ford Lake is considered one of the most picturesque lakes in Tennessee and is regarded as one of the top bass fishing and recreational lakes in the Southeast. 

Tims Ford State Park Background

The Tims Ford State Park was established in 1978.  Originally the park opened up with a much smaller footprint but since the year 2000 over 2,000 acres have been added to the park. 

Tims Ford State Park Office

Long before the construction of Tims Ford Dam on the headwaters of the Elk River, the area was used extensively by American Indians as a hunting and fishing territory. Archaeological excavations uncovered numerous artifacts and occupational sites, indicating that man had occupied the area as early as 10,000 to 12,000 years ago.   

Things to Do In Tims Ford State Park

Tims Ford State Park has a variety of things to do and enjoy.

Marina and boat ramp:  There is marina that rents boats and kayaks.

Restaurant:  The restaurant located by the Marina offers food and hand dipped ice cream.

Hiking/biking:  There are 23 miles of trails (both paved and unpaved) to hike and / or bike on. Five miles of those are hike only for foot traffic since they are dirt trails.   Many of the trails offer scenic views of Tims Ford Lake.

Cabins:  There are 20 cabins to rent from the park ... many of which overlook the lake.

Camping:  The Park manages 3 different campgrounds.  The main campground offers 52 RV or camping sites that each have water and electricity.  The bath houses have hot and cold water.  Fairview campground is approximately 8 miles from the main park and has 82 sites for camping.  The last are the 6 islands on Tims Ford Lake which offer paddle in primative campsites.  

Golf:  The Bear Trace Tims Ford golf course was designed by Jack Nicklaus.

Fishing:  The lake offers year-round fishing opportunities.  The lake is known for striped and small mouth bass though you can also catch Largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish, and crappie.

Can you Stay Overnight in Tims Ford State Park?

Yes, you can stay overnight in Tims Ford State Park.  The options are to rent on of their 20 cabins or plan to camp at one of their 3 locations on or around the lake.