Camping & Canoeing at Pinewood Canoe and Camp in Nunnelly - Nashville

Camping & Canoeing at Pinewood Canoe and Camp in Nunnelly

Nashvilleeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

Half-day to full-day options

Fitness Level

Suitable for beginners and casual paddlers; minimal physical demands for camping.

Overview

Pinewood Canoe and Camp offers versatile camping and river float trips on the Harpeth River near Nunnelly, Tennessee. Whether you're pitching a tent or paddling gentle rapids, this spot blends accessible outdoor adventure with the tranquility of Middle Tennessee's landscapes.

Details

Located along the quietly flowing Harpeth River near Nunnelly, Tennessee, Pinewood Canoe and Camp offers a grounded outdoor experience that highlights the rugged charm of Middle Tennessee’s backcountry. This destination blends classic river recreation with well-equipped camping options that suit both RV travelers and traditional tent campers. Pinewood’s range of campsites includes electric tent spots, primitive tent sites, and spaces tailored for RVs, catering to anyone looking for a night out under the stars backed by accessible amenities.

What sets Pinewood apart is its hands-on approach to river outings. Their “Float With Us” trip invites visitors to navigate the gentle currents of the Harpeth, a river known for its clear water, limestone bluffs, and native hardwood forests. This stretch delivers a blend of peaceful paddling with occasional riffles, ideal for casual canoeists and families wanting to connect with Tennessee’s natural waterways without needing expert skills.

The landscape here features hardwood forests of oak and hickory alongside rhododendron thickets, providing habitat for wildlife such as white-tailed deer and great blue herons. The river corridor’s geology includes sedimentary rocks that shape small rapids and quiet pools, making each float trip varied and scenic.

Located about 50 miles southeast of Nashville, Pinewood Canoe and Camp is a convenient escape for city residents craving an accessible nature retreat. The area’s low-light pollution enhances night sky clarity, making the primitive sites ideal for stargazers. Whether setting up beside the riverbank or hitching a camper, visitors are drawn to this site for its balanced combination of comfort and rusticity. Pinewood stands out as a reliable, authentic gateway to Tennessee’s quieter waterways and forested campgrounds, perfect for those who want an approachable yet immersive experience outdoors.

Adventure Tips

Reserve Campsites Early

Popular weekend dates fill quickly; book your spot ahead to secure the right campsite.

Check River Levels Before Floating

Water conditions can vary with rain—verify flow rates to ensure a safe float trip.

Bring Bug Repellent

Tennessee waterside areas attract mosquitoes especially at dawn and dusk; keep repellent handy.

Practice Leave No Trace

Campfires, waste disposal, and trail use should adhere to local conservation guidelines to protect the river corridor.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Secluded river bends ideal for fishing or quiet paddling
  • Nearby limestone bluffs offering short scenic hikes

Wildlife

  • White-tailed deer
  • Great blue heron

History

The Harpeth River has long been a route for early settlers and Native American tribes, reflecting the region’s deep connection to river travel.

Conservation

Efforts focus on maintaining water quality and natural vegetation to protect habitat integrity along this popular stretch of the Harpeth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Early morning mist
Sunset

Best Viewpoints

  • River bends with bluff backdrops
  • Campfire sites at dusk
  • Under canopy shots along forest trails

What to Photograph

Flowing river
Wildlife on riverbanks
Campfire and tent setups

Recommended Gear

Waterproof Dry Bags

Essential

Protects your gear from river splashes during canoe trips.

summer specific

Headlamp or Flashlight

Essential

Necessary for navigating campsites safely after dark.

Bug Spray with DEET

Essential

Repels mosquitoes especially near the river and in wooded areas.

spring specific

Sleeping Bag Rated for Season

Essential

Keeps you warm during the variable Tennessee nights, especially in spring and fall.

varies specific