EXPLORE.
THE UPPER CUMBERLAND is home to some of the most beautiful places in the south. From natural water falls to hidden hiking trails, you will never run out of places to see and explore.
State Parks
Along with a few national parks, Tennessee is home to over 40 state parks. Some of the more popular ones in Middle Tennessee can be reached in an hour’s drive or less from Cookeville. These include Standing Stone, Cummins Falls, Edgar Evins, Burgess Falls, Rock Island, Fall Creek Falls, and Cedars of Lebanon State Park.
For more information on these parks and others in Tennessee, please visit the Tennessee State Parks website.
Cookeville City Parks
To spend a quick afternoon outside, there is no better place than the city park. Luckily, Cookeville contains no less than 10 beautiful green spaces that are great for family outings or just going for a walk.
Our newest park is Dogwood Park, located between Broad Street and 1st Street. Visitors will find a beautiful fountain with a water play area for the young or young at heart members of the family. On most summer weekends, there are performances and outdoor movies in the massive amphitheatre, complete with a full concert stage. Need some snacks while you’re there? The concession stand has all you could ever want!
For more information, check out the Cookeville City Parks Page.
Lakes
There are three beautiful lakes in Middle Tennessee. Some people prefer one over the other, but really, all provide a great place to spend a day or a weekend.
Dale Hollow Lake
North of town, Dale Hollow Lake stretches all the way into Kentucky and has at least 9 marinas. Numerous campgrounds, day use areas, and backcountry campsites cover the shores.
Center Hill Lake
Southwest of town is Center Hill Lake, providing many of the same opportunities as Dale Hollow. It is noted as one of the cleanest lakes in Tennessee.
Cordell Hull Lake
Northwest of town, Cordell Hull Lake is an excellent place to spend a quiet weekend away from the hustle and bustle of the larger lakes.
