September 19, 2022

6 Reasons Tims Ford Lake is One of the Best destination vacations for families

Reasons why you should skip the theme parks and head to the lake for your next vacation

Some people might think that the best family vacations have to mean beaches and theme parks, but many more US destinations are perfect for the whole family.

We might be slightly biased, but we absolutely adore Tims Ford Lake in Middle Tennessee. Today, we're sharing five reasons that we think a Tims Ford Lake vacation makes for a fantastic family trip.

Where is Tims Ford Lake?

Tims Ford Lake is located in Middle Tennessee, about an hour outside Nashville, spanning nearly 17 miles with depths of 15-18 feet and 265 miles of shoreline. Known as one of the Southeast’s most picturesque lakes, Tims Ford Lake has endless opportunities for outdoor fun all year round. Why vacation in Tims Ford? Read on for a few of our favorite reasons.

No. 1: It's family-friendly.

People of all ages can enjoy family vacations at Tims Ford Lake. There's plenty to do on and off the water, and it's a safe place for families to play. During the high season, local marina restaurants offer free live music for the whole family on weekends. Plus, you'll never know who might show up! Since Tims Ford is close to Nashville, you just might see a few local country music stars visiting restaurants like Drafts and Watercrafts during the season.

Besides hiking and lake activities, there are also lots of entertainment options, with everything from bowling to arcades, and even glow mini golf for those days when you don't want to be outside.

No. 2: It's affordable.

While it's definitely a dream come true to visit the Orlando parks, staying at a Universal Orlando or Walt Disney World Resort and visiting parks can be expensive. Beach vacations are also terrific for families, but sometimes you just want a little something different, and a lake vacation can offer just that thing.

Although Tims Ford Lake is one of the most popular lakes in Tennessee, it's still very affordable. Many vacation rentals like waterside cottages and lake villas offer nightly and weekly pricing options that make it easy to afford short and long stays. Local restaurants and attractions are affordable, so you won't have to compromise on the things you want to do to keep them within budget.

No. 3: It offers one-of-a-kind lake vacation rentals.

The Glamper Waterside Cottage at Twin Creeks Resort

Whether you prefer Airbnb-type accommodations or brand-new lake houses, Tims Ford Lake offers one-of-a-kind lake vacation rentals.

The newest properties on Tims Ford Lake are the waterside cottages at Twin Creeks Marina, Resort, and Village. Six uniquely decorated vacation rentals are currently available, each with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, indoor and outdoor living spaces, and fully-equipped kitchens.

These aren’t your average Tennessee cabins, though. They’re bright, professionally cleaned, and offer outstanding views with large windows and two lakefront-covered porches. Also, they have access to a private or shared boat dock for easy access to Tims Ford Lake.

Prefer the RV life? The Twin Creeks RV Resort offers space with full hookups, laundry facilities, and safe, clean restrooms and showers for your comfort. And you won't have to worry about breaking the bank or breaking out the binoculars trying to find the best family vacation spots because every site is a lakeview or lakefront locale.

No. 4: It's as relaxing as you need it to be.

Vacations can get too hectic, so sometimes, it makes sense to slow down and soak it all in.

A lakeside retreat gives you that opportunity. At Tims Ford Lake, you can spend your days strolling around historic downtowns, taking a self-guided sunset boat tour, hiking, bird watching, or just enjoying the view from your cottage.

Like getting pampered? Visit a local medical or day spa like Raydiant Skin Medical Spa or Divine Salon and Day Spa and treat yourself to an array of spa treatments, from facials, hair services, and manicures to Botox, Dermaplane, and more.

No. 5: It has plenty of outdoor fun.

Tims Ford State Park is located on the north shore of Tims Ford Lake. This 2,200-acre park is perfect for those wooded and waterside hikes. Active families love the miles of hiking trails featuring lush scenery, which is incredibly gorgeous in the summer and fall.

The lake is well known as an excellent spot for water sports. Rent a boat, kayaks, or stand-up paddle boards and spend your days out on the water cruising, tubing, swimming, or fishing. Plus, did you know that paddle boarding and kayaking are great exercises? See, you just got healthier on vacation.

Golf is also nearby, with Bear Trace Golf Course just a few miles from the lake and your vacation rental. Bottom line: No matter what outdoor activities your family loves, you'll find something to do at Tims Ford Lake.

No. 6: It's close to many of Tennessee's most popular attractions.

There's plenty to do on and around Tims Ford Lake, but that doesn't mean you have to spend all your time there. Take a day trip to nearby Lynchburg to see the home of Jack Daniels. Or visit Music City with a tour of downtown Nashville. Chattanooga is also less than 90 minutes away, with a local arts scene and one of the best aquariums in the region.

Love national parks? Staying at Tims Ford Lake means you're only a three-hour drive from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the United States. If you still need your theme park fix, check out Dollywood, Anakeesta, or any of the Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg attractions. You won't be disappointed.

Lake vacations offer your family plenty of activities, quality time, fresh air, and memory-making opportunities. Give Tims Ford Lake a try and see why it's one of Tennessee's most famous lakes.