Nathan Bedford Forrest Paddling

Warning Alert
Warning

Campgrounds, Baseball Field, and Volleyball Court Closed for Renovations

Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park

Due to structural renovations, the Happy Hollow and Lakefront Campgrounds, the baseball field, and the volleyball court are closed. We anticipate a reopening of all areas in early 2027. Please watch our alerts and our social media accounts for the most updated information.

Thank you for your patience and understanding. If you have any questions, please contact the park office.

Notification

GPS Information

Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park

To get the most direct route to our Park Office when using GPS, please use the park address - 1825 Pilot Knob Road Eva, TN 38333. If you use the park name, it sends you to the back gate which is the long route, depending on your starting point, and there is no cell phone reception. 

  • Sunset over a tranquil lake, framed by trees and a rocky shoreline.
  • Lakeside view with trees, grassy shore, and blue sky with clouds.

    Paddling at Nathan Bedford Forrest

    Kayaks may be rented at the Park Office or at the Pilot Knob Interpretive Center for use on Kentucky Lake.

    Rental includes one adult life jacket, one child-size life jacket, and paddles. 

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    Kayak and SUP Rentals

    Stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) and single-person kayaks are rented at the office. You will receive a code to unlock your kayak. Rental includes one adult life jacket, one child-size life jacket, and paddles. 

    Tennessee state law requires that properly sized Coast Guard Approved Personal Floatation Device (PFD) must be onboard each vessel. Non-swimmers must wear a PFD at all times. Children under the age of 13 must wear a PFD and be accompanied by an adult at all times. Each kayak is 10 feet long and is designed to accommodate one person up to 275 pounds. Standup paddleboards can support one rider up to 225 pounds. 

    Rates 

    Kayak: $30 full-day 
    Paddleboard: $30 daily 

    • Wooden pier extending into a calm lake under a bright blue sky with clouds.

    Nathan Bedford Forrest Water Trail

    GPS: 36.089027, -87.970339  

    Directions to Access Point 

    Upon entering the park on TN 191 N, proceed to the intersection of TN 191 and Lakefront Rd. Turn right onto Lakefront Rd. Along this road, there are two boat ramps and two boat-in access areas. Each gravel boat ramp and put-in area can accommodate approximately 10 vehicles. No overnight parking except at designated primitive campsites.  

    Visitor Center Gift Shop 

    The Visitor Center Gift Shop is the perfect place to pick up a map, learn about the park, or find a souvenir. You'll find an assortment of apparel and keepsakes to remember your trip to the park.

    Address:
    1825 Pilot Knob Road, Eva TN, 38333

    Hours: 
    8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

    Happenings

    No events are scheduled at this time, but there's always more to explore.

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    Other Activities at Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park