Radnor Lake State Park

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EV Chargers Temporarily Unavailable

Radnor Lake State Park

Due to pending upgrades of the Electric Vehicle Chargers at Radnor Lake State Park, the current chargers are temporarily unavailable.

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

  • Calm lake reflecting trees and a clear blue sky.
  • Radnor Lake State Park, encompassing 1,389 acres, is a serene natural oasis nestled in the heart of Nashville. This Class II Natural Area offers a respite from the urban bustle, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its tranquil beauty. With its abundant wildlife, scenic trails, and commitment to conservation, Radnor Lake provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature and discover the wonders of the Tennessee landscape.

    Explore the Park

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    Safety and Accessibility

    • Safety

      Radnor Lake State Park is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors. While exploring the park, please be aware of the incline and decline on South Cove Trail and Ganier Ridge Trail due to steep elevation changes of 200+ feet. To ensure your safety, wear good hiking shoes, bring water, use a trail map, and be aware of your surroundings. Parking is allowed only in marked spaces, which often fill up quickly, especially during pleasant weather. Remember that pets are only allowed on Otter Creek Road, Hall Drive, and the dam. All off-trail use is prohibited. 

    • Accessibility 

      Radnor Lake State Park offers a variety of accessible experiences. The Walter Criley Visitor Center is wheelchair accessible, offering exhibits and information about the park's history and natural features. The paved Otter Creek Road and Hall Drive provide relatively flat, accessible routes for enjoying the scenery and wildlife viewing. The Lake Trail Observation Deck is also accessible, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding natural areas.  

    • Responsible Recreation  

      Tennessee State Parks are dedicated to promoting responsible recreation — encouraging visitors to enjoy the parks’ natural beauty while minimizing their own impact. By practicing Leave No Trace principles and respecting park rules, visitors can help preserve these precious resources for future generations.  

    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:
    1160 Otter Creek Road, Nashville TN, 37220
    1-615-373-3467

    Hours:
    Tuesday - Saturday 
    9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
    Closed daily 1:00 - 2:00 PM for lunch unless otherwise posted.

    Sunday and Monday
    Closed
     

    Featured Park Attractions

      • Visitor center with a wooden sign surrounded by greenery.

      Walter Criley Visitor Center 

      Begin your Radnor Lake adventure at the Walter Criley Visitor Center. Here, you can explore exhibits highlighting the park's history, ecology, and conservation efforts.  

      • Smiling park ranger holding a small falcon, standing before state park banners.

      Barbara J. Mapp Aviary Education Center 

      Get up close and personal with fascinating birds of prey, venomous and non-venomous snakes, and turtles. The captive wildlife is non-releasable. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM CST, this center offers a unique opportunity to learn about Tennessee's diverse wildlife.  

      • A serene lake scene with a great blue heron spreading its wings in flight, while a doe and fawn stand nearby on the lush green shore, exuding tranquility.

      Class II Natural Area 

      Designated for its abundant wildlife, especially migrating birds, this protected area offers a chance to witness nature's wonders. Explore the diverse ecosystems and discover the unique flora and fauna that call Radnor Lake home.

    Park Activities

    Park Amenities

    • Aviary
    • Birding
    • Gift Shop
    • Trails
    • Museum
    • Visitor Center
    • All-Terrain Wheelchair
    • Colorblind Viewfinder
    • Wheelchair-Friendly Overlooks
    • Wheelchair-Friendly Paved Trails

    Inspiration

    For Schools

    Engage your students in a hands-on learning experience with Ranger-led or teacher-led programs at Tennessee State Parks. 

    Happenings

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

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  • Energy Efficiency

    Installed LED lights at the Aviary Center, visitor center, and ranger residences to reduce consumption. Installed new doors and added a vestibule area at Visitor Center to maintain consistent temperatures.  

  • Improved Facilities

    Added new water heaters, spray foam insulation to fill gaps and reduce heating and cooling losses. Upgraded to Energy Star windows at the Hideaway house along with insulated front and back doors.  

  • EV Charging Stations

    Installed EV charging stations at the Visitor Center. 

  • Cleanup and Recycle Programs

    Led a Jr. Ranger cleanup along the Duck River to remove and recycle tires. Recycled 700+ Christmas trees into mulch used in the park (Trees to Trails program). Recycled 9,260 pounds of mixed materials.  

  • Protect Habitats

    Converted 154+ acres back to native grasslands for habitat to support ground nesting birds and pollinators. Targeted the removal of Wild Garlic Mustard and Bush Honeysuckle. Monthly park litter pickup and improvement events.  

  • Eco-Friendly Practices

    Performed controlled burns, planted native grasses and vegetation, mulching or graveling trails to prevent erosion where appropriate. Use recycled and repurposed building materials throughout park.  

  • Gift Shops and Stores

    Shop or Store name
    Visitor Center Gift Shop 
    Address

    1160 Otter Creek Road 
    Nashville, TN 37220
    United States

    Phone number
    Hours

    Tuesday - Saturday
    9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
    Closed 1:00 - 2:00 PM for lunch unless otherwise posted.

    Sunday and Monday
    Closed
     

    Contact Information

    Radnor Lake State Park Office and Visitor Center 
    Address

    1160 Otter Creek Road 
    Nashville, TN 37220
    United States

    Phone number
    Hours

    Park hours:
    6:00 AM CST - 20 minutes after sunset
    Year-round, including all holidays

    Visitor Center hours:
    Tuesday - Saturday
    9:30 AM - 5:00 PM
    Closed 1:00 - 2:00 PM for lunch unless otherwise posted.
     

    Additional Information

    Reservations & Information 
    1-888-TN-PARKS
    1-888-867-2757