If you’re searching for the best paddle boarding Tennessee has to offer, you’re in the right place. Tennessee’s mix of big-city waterways, calm reservoirs, wildlife refuges, and gorge-lined rivers makes it one of the most versatile states in the South for stand up paddle boarding. Whether you want an easy, flatwater cruise near Nashville, a quiet nature paddle with birdwatching, a SUP fishing day on a massive lake, or a more technical river adventure, there’s a Tennessee spot that fits your style.

In this guide, we’ll cover the top places to paddle board across the state, along with practical tips on where to launch, what conditions to expect, and which locations are best for beginners vs. experienced paddlers.

The Cumberland River flows directly through downtown Nashville, offering paddle boarders unmatched skyline views and live music drifting across the water. Launching from Shelby Park or Riverfront Park puts you in the heart of Music City, with easy access to restaurants, bars, and iconic venues.

This stretch is beginner-friendly but requires awareness of commercial boat traffic. Early mornings and evenings provide calmer conditions. Paddle board rentals—both inflatable and hard boards—are widely available nearby, making this an easy stop even for travelers without gear.

Percy Priest Lake is a 14,000-acre reservoir formed by the Stones River and located less than 20 minutes from downtown Nashville. Surrounded by over 19,000 acres of public land, it’s ideal for paddle boarding, hiking, and camping.

Hamilton Creek offers especially calm water for beginners, while the lake’s 24 islands provide endless shoreline exploration. SUP anglers will find success here, and the tranquil coves are perfect for SUP yoga sessions.

Old Hickory Lake, named after President Andrew Jackson, stretches across 22,000 acres with more than 400 miles of shoreline. This popular lake supports everything from water skiing to paddle boarding and SUP fishing.

Early mornings offer glassy conditions before motor traffic increases. Its proximity to Nashville makes Old Hickory a favorite for locals looking to escape the city without a long drive.

Lake Ocoee consists of three connected lakes, the largest stretching about seven miles. Calm surface conditions make this an excellent beginner paddle boarding destination.

Located within Cherokee National Forest, the scenic drive alone is worth the trip. Paddle board rentals nearby make Lake Ocoee accessible for visitors and families alike.

Kentucky Lake is the largest lake in Tennessee, spanning 184 miles and crossing into Kentucky. Created by damming the Tennessee River, it’s a major destination for SUP fishing, paddle tours, and yoga sessions.

While summer weekends can bring heavy boat traffic, quiet coves and early starts reward paddlers with peaceful water. New Johnsonville provides easy lake access, lodging, and dining.

Established in 1962, Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for nature-focused paddle boarders. Tall trees, calm water, and abundant wildlife—including bald eagles and great blue herons—make this a standout SUP destination.

Launching from the North Cross Creeks Reservoir boat ramp allows paddlers to explore North Creek before connecting to the Cumberland River for a scenic, low-stress paddle.

Chattanooga is the ideal base for exploring the Tennessee River Gorge, part of the federally designated Tennessee Blueway. This 50-mile stretch offers everything from flatwater paddling to light whitewater.

Below Chickamauga Dam, paddlers can visit McClellan Audubon Island, a 19-acre preserve with hiking trails and rich wildlife viewing. Urban paddlers can launch from Coolidge Park for a sunset skyline paddle before continuing into the forested gorge.

The Hiwassee River near Reliance features splashy Class II–II+ whitewater, making it ideal for experienced river paddlers using river-specific SUPs. Other sections range from Class I to IV, offering progression opportunities for skilled paddlers.

Advanced paddle boarders will find the Tellico River thrilling. The upper stretch features Class II–III rapids with waterfall drops, while the lower sections offer technical but less vertical paddling.

This river is best suited for experienced whitewater SUP riders familiar with portaging and river safety.

Tennessee delivers one of the most diverse paddle boarding experiences in the country. From urban river paddles and peaceful lakes to wildlife refuges and Appalachian whitewater, there’s truly something for every SUP style. Grab your board, check conditions, and explore the Volunteer State from the water.