How do I access Cook Recreation Area?

Cook Recreation Area is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Cook Recreation Area?

Cook Recreation Area supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

When is the best time to visit Cook Recreation Area?

The best time to paddle at Cook Recreation Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Cook Recreation Area?

Water conditions at Cook Recreation Area include calm, sheltered.

Is Cook Recreation Area good for beginners?

Yes, Cook Recreation Area is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

green and brown trees beside river during daytime

Photo by Michael S on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingDockFishing PierADA AccessibleLightingConcessions

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Cook Recreation Area

Hermitage, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Cook Recreation Area is a public boat ramp on Stones River - J. Percy Priest Lake near Hermitage, Tennessee. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Free

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Cook Recreation Area offers lake paddling on Stones River - J. Percy Priest Lake in Tennessee. Located near Hermitage.

Lake paddlers in Tennessee will appreciate Cook Recreation Area, which offers direct access to Stones River - J. Percy Priest Lake and its surrounding waters.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and dock and fishing pier and ada accessible and lighting and concessions.

Cook Recreation Area sits about 5 min from Hermitage, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Cook Recreation Area ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Cook Recreation Area?: Cook Recreation Area is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Cook Recreation Area?: Cook Recreation Area supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Cook Recreation Area?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, fishing pier, ada accessible, lighting, concessions. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Cook Recreation Area?: The best time to paddle at Cook Recreation Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Cook Recreation Area?: Water conditions at Cook Recreation Area include calm, sheltered.
Is Cook Recreation Area good for beginners?: Yes, Cook Recreation Area is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 36.1315, -86.5955