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Clarksville TN (Tennessee)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Canada and USA Rivers

Local Time 2024-05-19 01:00

Port Clarksville TN cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Clarksville TN, Tennessee. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Clarksville TN is a Red River (Cumberland River) cruise port and city in Tennessee USA (Montgomery County). By population (around 150,000) the city is ranked state's 5th-largest (after behind Nashville , Memphis , Knoxville, Chattanooga ). Clarksville is approx 70 km (45 mi) northwest of Nashville (Tennessee state's capital city).

The town was founded in 1785 (by East Tennessee colonists) and incorporated as city in 1807. It is named after George Rogers Clark (1752-1818) - an US militia officer (general) and hero in the American War of Independence (1775-1783). Fort Campbell KY (home of US 101st Airborne Division) is approx 16 km (10 mi) from downtown, located on the Tennessee-Kentucky border.

The city developed rapidly during the 19th-century with main industries Cumberland River shipping trade (by steamboats) and agriculture (large plantations producing tobacco, cotton, corn, flour). Agriculture produce was exported (along the rivers Ohio and Mississippi) to New Orleans and Pittsburgh PA . The first bridge over Red River (linking Clarksville with New Providence NJ) was opened in 1829. In 1828 was opened the Clarksville-Hopkinsville Turnpike road. In 1859 was opened the Clarksville-Louisville Railroad.

Current-day city's economy is based on major industrial companies like Agero Inc (connected vehicle, roadside assistance), Akebono Brake Industry Ltd (Japanese manufacturer of components for cars, motorbikes, trains, industrial machinery), American Standard (plumbing fixtures manufacturer), Bridgestone Corporation (Japanese manufacturer of auto and truck parts), Fort Campbell KY (US Army base), Google LLC, Hankook Tire (South Korean manufacturer), Jostens (US memorabilia printing and publishing), LG Corporation (South Korean manufacturer of electronics, chemicals, telecom products), Nyrstar Clarksville (zinc refinery), Trane Inc (US manufacturer of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning equipment), Vulcan Corporation (US manufacturer of rubber, plastic and foam products).

As cruise port, Clarksville TN is included in the regular schedule of the USA's largest river cruise company - ACL-American Cruise Lines . Next table shows Queen of the Mississippi/American Heritage ship's 7-night/8-day itinerary between homeports Nashville and St Louis, with prices from ~USD 3000 pp (double occupancy rates).

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Everything you need to know for Boating the Cumberland River (Nashville Side Trip)

Discover scenic landscapes, charming small towns, and one of the best big cities while experiencing the beauty of the Cumberland River on a side trip to Nashville, Tennessee! One of the pieces of advice we received from a Gold Looper was to take all of the side trips along the Great Loop. We took that advice to heart as we began our Nashville side trip on the Great Loop. In this post, we’ve compiled all of the tips and tricks we learned during our Nashville side trip.

Note: We use affiliate links which provide us a little kickback each time you use one of our links and make a purchase, without any additional cost to you. We do not recommend products that we don’t already love or have heard great things about, so you can trust we’re only suggesting great products to you .

Table of Contents

Nashville Side Trip Quick Facts

How many miles is the nashville side trip.

The Nashville side trip is a total of 166 nautical miles from the Barkley Lock to Nashville on the Cumberland River.

How many days should I plan for the Nashville Side Trip?

It takes about 3-4 days to travel to Nashville on the Cumberland River from Lake Barkley, Kentucky. The trip typically lasts about 6-8 days in total . Scroll to the end of this post for a Nashville side trip sample itinerary.

Navigating the Cumberland River to Nashville

As with any river, the Cumberland River has current working both for and against you. Depending upon both recent rainfall and water levels, you can expect a 1-2 knot current. This current will be against you as you head East to Nashville. And will provide a boost on the way back.

As you travel upstream towards Nashville, the buoys will be red on your right and green on your left. As you turn around to make the return trip back to the Great Loop route, the buoys will flip and red will be on your left and green on your right. You can remember this as “Red Right Upstream”.

Barge Traffic

As expected on most of these midwest rivers, barges can also be found on the Cumberland River. Although they are significantly reduced in size and quantity.

Cheatham Lock & Dam | MM 148

The Cheatham Lock is the only lock you will need to transit on the journey to Nasvhille. The lock is managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority, or TVA for short. It’s located at mile marker 148 on the Cumberland River. And can be reached by phone at (615) 792-4349 or VHF radio channels 16 or 14. This lock doesn’t get as much commercial traffic as many of the other locks on the Great Loop route. But it is a good idea to call ahead to see what the wait time looks like before starting your cruise for the day. This lock is closed from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m.

Read How to Lock – Our Step-by-Step Guide to Locking

For our full list of boater tips and tricks, necessary gear, and checklists for navigating locks on the rivers and the Great Loop.

Our Great Loop Locks Spreadsheet

We made navigating the locks & dams on the Great Loop easier by organizing them all on one spreadsheet! It includes the names, mile markers, phone numbers, and any of our additional navigation notes.

Cumberland River Ferry | MM 104.2

The Cumberland River Ferry is located at mile marker 104.2 on the Cumberland River and operates on a regular schedule, running every 30 minutes. It’s important to be mindful of the ferry as part of your navigation of the Cumberland River.

We used BoatUS to have peace of mind while cruising, knowing help was only a radio call away. Sign up for BoatUS here !

Marinas and Dockage on the Nashville Side Trip

Green turtle bay | mm 31.8.

Green Turtle Bay Marina is located just south of Lake Barkley and is known for having a variety of resort amenities for boaters . If you want to take advantage of the marina’s resort amenities including Jade and Earth Spa & Health Club, make sure to book this in advance. We’d recommend calling Green Turtle Bay when you enter the rivers from Chicago to see what the lead time at is at the spa facilities. When we called, it was a three week lead time at the tail end of the season. Reservations for dockage can be made ahead of time on Dockwa . We personally stayed at Green Turtle Bay Marina and had a positive experience. Green Turtle Bay has discounts for AGLCA members. The marina also has a courtesy car for boaters.

Website: https://www.greenturtlebay.com/main-harbor-marina Phone: 270-362-1043 or 800-498-0428

Buzzard Rock Resort & Marina | MM 39.5

The Buzzard Rock Resort & Marina has availability for boats of all sizes with power of twin 30 amp/125V to twin 50 amp/250V & smaller slips with 15 amp/110V. The marina is affordably priced at $0.75/foot (as of November 2023). In addition, this marina does have a courtesy car for boaters to use.

Website: www.buzzardrock.com/marina Phone 270-388-7925, 800-826-6238

Kuttawa Harbor Marina | MM 42

The Kuttawa Harbor Marina is located at the northern part of Lake Barkley.

Website: www.kuttawaharbormarina.com Phone: 270-388-9563

Clarksville’s McGregor Park Courtesy Boat Dock | MM 126

The Clarksville Department of Parks and Recreation has a courtesy boat dock that is conveniently located to Downtown Clarksville with a pedestrian bridge. We stayed at the McGregor Park Boat Dock in Clarksville and loved it! The dock is located parallel to the river, so boat and barge that passed by did cause wakes making it not the most protected spot, however, due to it’s affordable price and convenient location, we couldn’t say no! There was both one 30A outlet (where Pivot is Below) and a 50A outlet towards the middle of the Dock, and there was not any water available.

Clarksville Marina | MM 127.9

The Clarksville Marina is a popular destination on the Cumberland River. The marina offers amenities such as docking facilities, fuel services, and access to nearby shops and restaurants, making it an ideal stop for boaters exploring Clarksville, TN.

Website: www.clarksvillemarina.com Phone: 931-444-0646

Harpeth Shoals Marina | MM 157.1

The Harpeth Shoals Marina has a few transient slips, gas, and diesel. Sparse information was found about this marina. Phone: 615-513-3228

Riverview Restaurant | MM 158

Riverview Marina and Restaurant has a dock onsite that can comfortably accommodate several boats. The dock is free with the purchase of a meal at the restaurant. We were the only boat at the dock when we visited Riverview Restaurant, however, you can call the restaurant if you’re concerned about the availability on their dock. When we visited in 2022 there was not any power or water included in the dockage.

Commodore Yacht Club | MM 172.4

The Commodore Yacht Club is located 10 miles or 20-minute drive outside of Nashville. This is an option for boaters who are interested in staying further from Nashville or want to plan a longer stay in Nashville at a lower cost. Boaters can take Uber or Lyft into Nashville. In addition, BoatUS members can receive a discount.

Website: www.commodoreyachtclub.com/index.php Phone: 615-356-4110

Rock Harbor Marina | MM 175.5

Rock Harbor Marina is located 7.5 miles or a 17-minute drive outside of Nashville making it another option for boaters who want to visit Nashville but don’t want to stay in Downtown. This is also a great option for boaters who want to leave their boat for an extended stay and use Nashville’s airport for travel. Boaters can take Uber or Lyft into Nashville. The marina has fuel available 24/7, which is self-service, pay at the kiosk with a credit or debit card.

Website: www.rockharbormarine.com Phone: 615-356-1111, 800-542-7625

Nashville Municipal Riverfront Docks

With its prime location, boaters can easily explore the city’s famous attractions as the location is right in the heart of Downtown, Nashville. We stayed at this dock and loved our time here! The dock has both excellent views of Downtown and great access over a pedestrian bridge right into the heart of Downtown Nashville. The Nashville Marina is operated by Lock One Marina Services LLC and during our visit in 2022, was completely unmanned. They are best reached over Dockwa or by phone. For the current information, please refer to Active Captain. During our visit to the Nashville Municipal Riverfront Dock, we were warned of an obstruction underwater between the bridge pillings for boats with drafts greater than 3 feet. Make sure to read the latest Active Captain reviews before arriving to know the most recent conditions and recommendations. Reservations can be made ahead of time on Dockwa .

Website: https://www.facebook.com/NashvilleRiverfrontDocks Phone: (615) 669-0541

Use our Referral Code 450ZMS3 for a $15 discount on your Dockwa reservation!

Anchorages on the Nashville Side Trip

The Cumberland River on the Nashville side trip is filled with great anchorages ! Anchoring on the rivers can be intimidating due to the barge traffic, but there were countless great protected anchorages, with plenty of depth for boaters on a budget or wanting greater variety in their overnight locations.

Here is a list of anchorages we stayed at :

Double Creek

We stayed at Double Creek as we left Barkley Lock. It’s a great spot off the channel with a boat ramp to take our dinghy to shore for dog walks.

Dover Island Anchorage

Dover Island Anchorage is a great spot off the main channel. The water was deep with zero concerns about running aground. We took Ollie to shore along the shore of Dover Island. It was a bit muddy, but not terrible.

Harpeth River

The Harpeth River Anchorage was one of our favorite anchorages on the entire Great Loop! The limestone cliffs provided a colorful light show during sunset as the rocks changed colors. Theres a small dinghy dock further into the river near the Harpeth River Bridge Campsite which we used to take Ollie to shore.

Most of the anchorages are located in Barkley Lake or closer to the start of this side trip. Once we got to Clarksville, there were fewer anchorages. Around the two destinations on the Nashville Side Trip (both Clarksville and Nashville) there were no nearby anchorages, which resulted in us staying at marina docks.

Fuel on the Nashville Side Trip

Boaters traveling on the Cumberland River from the Barkley Lock and Dam to Downtown Nashville have several options for refueling along the way. Some of the places where boaters can refuel include the list of marinas listed above. We refueled at Rock Harbor Marina just outside of Nashville and again at Green Turtle Bay Resort and Marina. However, we recommended calling ahead to marinas to find out their most current fuel prices!

Provisioning on the Nashville Side Trip

The best spot to provision on the Cumberland River is both at the beginning of the trip in the northern part of Lake Barkley and again near Nashville. We stayed at Green Turtle Bay in Grand Rivers Kentucky and used their courtesy car to reprovision. Another option would be to stay at Buzzard Rock Resort & Marina which is more affordable than Green Turtle Bay and use their courtesy car. We also reprovisioned in Nashville using an Uber or Lyft to drive us with our groceries back to our boat. Nashville has the most variety when it comes to grocery stores, where as the selection in Grand Rivers Kentucky was pretty limiting. There are no grocery stores within a 1-mile walking distance from any of the destinations on the Nashville side trip.

Attractions on the Nashville Side Trip

Boaters can enjoy a diverse range of scenic landscapes on the Cumberland River . From the tranquil beauty of the river’s meandering waterways to the picturesque views of lush forests lining the riverbanks, the Cumberland River offers a captivating natural backdrop. Boaters may also encounter charming towns and cities along the way, each with its own unique charm and character.

Clarksville, Tennessee

This small town offers a variety of both attractions and activities within a mile from the Cumberland River. Here are some of the best things to do in Clarksville :

• Roxy Regional Theatre : Located in downtown Clarksville, the Roxy Regional Theatre is a historic landmark known for both its live performances and classic movies. Catch a show or enjoy a film screening in this charming theater.
• Customs House Museum and Cultural Center : Explore both the rich history and vibrant arts scene of Clarksville at the Customs House Museum. This museum features rotating exhibits showcasing regional and national art, as well as local history and cultural artifacts.
• Downtown Clarksville : Take a stroll through downtown Clarksville and explore its unique shops, boutiques, and art galleries. Enjoy both the historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere of this charming area.
• RiverWalk: McGregor Park : Just steps away from the Cumberland River, McGregor Park offers a scenic RiverWalk that stretches for miles. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the river, enjoying both beautiful views and peaceful surroundings.
• Downtown Commons in Clarksville, TN is a vibrant public space that offers a variety of both attractions and activities for visitors. With both its beautifully landscaped grounds and modern amenities, it serves as a gathering place for the community. The park features a performance stage, interactive fountains, and a spacious lawn for both picnics and events. It also hosts concerts, festivals, and art exhibitions throughout the year, providing entertainment and cultural experiences for all.

Nashville, Tennessee

This favorite big city on the Great Loop offers a plethora of both exciting activities and attractions within a mile walking distance from the Cumberland River. Here are some of the best things to do in Nashville:

• The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum : Immerse yourself in the rich history of country music at this iconic museum . Explore exhibits showcasing legendary artists, artifacts, and interactive displays that celebrate the genre’s impact on American culture. Tickets start at $27.95 for museum admission only and go up based on additional museum access. However, it’s best to purchase tickets a day or two ahead of time to ensure the time you want to visit is available.
• Ryman Auditorium : Known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” the Ryman Auditorium is a historic venue that has hosted countless legendary performances. Take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history. Tickets start at $35 for a self-guided tour of the auditorium . Other tours include guided backstage tours and seasonally available Haunted History Tours. If you want to watch a live performance in this historic venue, then be sure to check out the Ryman Auditorium’s events calendar .
• Broadway : Experience the vibrant energy of Nashville’s famous Broadway, lined with honky-tonks, bright lights, live music venues, and restaurants. Enjoy live music performances, savor delicious Southern cuisine, and soak in the lively atmosphere of this iconic street.
• The Johnny Cash Museum : Pay homage to the legendary “Man in Black” at this museum dedicated to the life and career of Johnny Cash. Explore exhibits featuring memorabilia, artifacts, and interactive displays that chronicle his influential musical journey.
• The Frist Art Museum : Located in a beautifully renovated art deco building, the Frist Art Museum features a diverse range of exhibitions showcasing local, national, and international art. Explore the galleries and appreciate the captivating works on display.
• Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park : Take a stroll through this expansive park that commemorates Tennessee’s rich history. After that, admire the iconic Tennessee Capitol building, learn about the state’s heritage through various monuments and exhibits, and enjoy the scenic views of the city skyline.

These attractions offer a glimpse into the vibrant music scene, cultural heritage, and artistic offerings that Nashville has to offer, all conveniently located within walking distance from the Cumberland River.

Nashville Side Trip Sample Itinerary

The Nashville side trip is a relatively quick trip. Usually completed in the fall when the autumn colors are at full bloom, giving boaters a beautiful view of the Cumberland River. There were a few things we learned during this side trip that we would do differently. Due to Nashville’s popularity, we’d recommend visiting Nashville on a weekday so the Downtown docks aren’t as busy. We had to wait for a few days in an anchorage since there was a Nashville Titans football game going on when we initially expected to visit Nashville. This itinerary is based on a boat speed of 6-7 knots . If your boat goes faster, then you’ll be able to shorten some of these travel days. For example, you could leave Clarksville early and arrive in Nashville, skipping the Dover Creek Anchorage, however, that is one of our favorite anchorages on the Great Loop.

Nashville Side Trip Day 1 – Start the Nashville Side Trip

48.6 nautical miles | 9 hours travel time

Travel from an anchorage on Lake Barkley to Dover Creek Anchorage. This will be one of the longest travel days, so it’s best to leave early in the morning to maximize sunlight hours.

Nashville Side Trip Day 2 – Short travel day to explore Clarksville

30.2 nautical miles | 5 hours and 30 minutes travel time

Travel from Dover Creek Anchorage to Clarksville, Tennessee staying at the Clarksville’s McGregor Park Courtesy Boat Dock. Watch out for the Cumberland River Ferry that runs every 30 minutes across the river. Enjoy a delicious meal at the Mailroom followed by beers and games at Upstairs at Strawberry Alley. If you happen to visit on a Friday night, then make sure to check out the Downtown Commons or a show at the Roxy Theatre (and the farmers market on Saturday morning if it’s in season)!

Nashville Side Trip Day 3 – Cheatham Lock & Dam to the best Anchorage!

24.1 nautical miles | 4 hours and 30 minutes travel time + time for the lock

Enjoy another short travel day as you lock through Cheatham Lock and Dam and cruise to one of our favorite anchorages on the Great Loop – Harpeth River Anchorage! This day is short to take into account any delays at the lock. Make sure to call the lock master before leaving Clarksville to ask about current wait times. Enjoy the sunset over the limestone cliff faces in this quiet and protected anchorage.

Nashville Side Trip Day 4 – Arrive in Nashville

34.1 nautical miles | 6 hours and 15 minutes travel time

Leave Harpeth River Anchorage for Nashville! This part of the trip will be a bit industrial as you get closer to Nashville. Enjoy your first night out in Nashville listening to live music and eating delicious food.

Nashville Side Trip Day 5 – All Day in Nashville

This is your one full day to explore in Nashville.

Nashville Side Trip Day 6 – Leave Nashville for Harpeth River Anchorage

Enjoy the morning in Nashville before leaving the dock and heading back to the Harpeth River Anchorage (or Riverview Restaurant if you prefer to be on a dock).

Nashville Side Trip Day 7 – Cheatham Lock & Dam to Clarksville

Leave Harpeth River Anchorage and head through the Cheatham Lock and Dam to Clarksville. Make sure to call ahead so you hopefully don’t have to wait at the lock. End your cruise in Clarksville and enjoy another great meal in town or a beer at one of their local breweries.

Nashville Side Trip Day 8 – Long Travel Day from Clarksville to a Marina on Lake Barkley

Lastly, leave Clarksville early and have a long travel day back to the main Great Loop Route. Visit Buzzard Rock Resort & Marina or Green Turtle Bay Marina, both of which have courtesy cars, so you can re-provision for another section of the loop. Make sure to route this section with your boat speed so you can work backward and figure out what time to leave Clarksville so you arrive to your destination before sundown.

Additional Resources for the Nashville Side Trip

The book, The Cumberland River Cruise Guide by Fred Meyers, is a great guidebook giving mile-by-mile information on the area’s history, attractions, and geological features.

Watch our Nashville Side Trip on YouTube

We hope this post provided you with some insightful information on boating the Nashville side trip on the Great Loop. Share this post with a friend if you think someone else might find this information useful. The ups, downs, and everything in between, we share it all. If you like what you see, then there are lots of ways to  show your support and say thanks !

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The ups, downs, and everything in between , we share it all. If you like what you see, there are lots of ways to  show your support and say thanks ! The easiest way to support our work is by commenting on this post, liking and sharing our content on Facebook, and pinning our content on Pinterest . It’s a small way to say thank you that goes a long way!

Jennifer Johnson

6 responses to “Everything you need to know for Boating the Cumberland River (Nashville Side Trip)”

Hi. Thanks so much for the Nashville side trip info. We are heading there now. I noted that you refer to your favorite anchorage before and after Nashville as Dover. Don’t you mean Harpeth? It’s a long way from Nashville to Dover.

You’re welcome for the information. I hope it’s helpful. Yes, we mean the anchorage on the Harpeth River. Thanks for catching that. Enjoy the Nashville side trip!

Safe travels, Jen

Thank you so much for catching that! It slipped both Elliot and I. I’ve updated the detailed itinerary so it should be correct now.

What are the two cylinder-shaped structures on the west side of the river just north of the Lyle H. Fulton Bridge in Nashville?

Great article. We miss our small Albin trawler on Great Lakes and now living in SC. Any ideas on were to charter non captained trawler to take this “side trip”

Thanks- Frank and Karen

Thank you, Frank! Albin trawlers are awesome boats! Unfortunately, I’m not sure where to charter a trawler in this region.

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We’re Jen and Elliot , aka Scho & Jo, and we are happy to help plan your next Pivot! Sometimes, we’re forced to make decisions, and sometimes, we have time to plan them out; in all cases, Pivots are part of our lives, and we’re better off embracing them rather than avoiding them!

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Explore Clarksville, TN

Mcgregor park & riverwalk.

Cumberland RiverWalk is comprised of a 2-mile riverfront promenade, playground and picnic area, river exhibit and concert area. The city's signature riverfront park hosts several events and festivals year round. The area's scenic setting makes the park a local favorite. View our event calendar here: https://www.facebook.com/pg/clarksvilleparksandrecreation/events/?ref=page_internal

640 N. Riverside Dr. Clarksville , TN 37040

For the most up-to-date hours and information, please contact McGregor Park & Riverwalk directly.

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Liberty Park & Marina

Parks & Marina

Fort Defiance Interpretive Center

Clarksville Civil War Site

Nearby Attractions

Still exploring? Try these popular ideas in and around Clarksville.

Eat & Drink

Tennessee Valley Brewing Company

Friendly, cozy atmosphere with a wide range of beer selection

Beachaven Vineyards & Winery

Award-winning winery established in 1986. Only 45 minutes northwest of Nashville. Third generation winery . Home of Jazz on the Lawn. Tours, tastings, vineyard picnic area

The Mailroom

Enjoy made-from-scratch meals cooked to perfection on a wood-fired grill. Craft cocktails are served on tap at indoor + outdoor bars.

Quality Inn Sango Road Clarksville

Our 100 percent smoke-free hotel offers you welcoming service and ample amenities, including fast and free WiFi, free parking and free hearty and healthy breakfast options every morning—including our famous waffles. When you’re ready to unwind retreat to

RJourney Clarksville RV Resort

1 Mile Off Interstate 24. Last exit before Kentucky. Perfect location for a layover or visiting family in the Army. Accommodate Big Rigs.

A Tennessee Tiny House

A beautiful historic 1923 farmhouse that sleeps 6 people

Historic Collinsville

Historic Collinsville Pioneer Settlement

Clarksville Downtown Market

Shop for fresh produce, handmade goods, and more at this award-winning farmers market.

Downtown Commons

Concerts, events, and play happen at the Downtown Commons urban park.

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River Trails and Tasty Ales: 18 Best Things To Do In Clarksville TN

A re you looking for a fun-filled vacation that is off the beaten path? Look no further than beautiful Clarksville, TN. Nestled on the banks of the Cumberland River, about an hour’s drive from Nashville , this Tennessee town is a perfect destination for travelers who want to see a slice of authentic southern life. Plus, it has plenty of fun activities to keep you entertained.

Fort Campbell, Kentucky, is minutes away across the state line. Many veterans decide to make Clarksville their home after retirement, and they own many of the businesses. It is currently the 5th largest city in the state of Tennessee.

I visited Clarksville with several other writers to learn more about the area. Here are some of the best things we found to do in Clarksville.

VisitClarksvilleTN hosted my visit. All opinions are my own.

Downtown Clarksville, TN

Clarksville’s downtown is a hub of activity, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and historic buildings to explore. It has a small-town feel and is quite beautiful. Stroll down Franklin Street to find unique boutiques, gift shops, and artisan studios. Or, visit one of the local breweries like Tennessee Valley Brewing Company , which offers a variety of craft beers and live music. If wine is more your thing, visit Clarksville’s only wine bar, The Vine on Franklin .

Roxy Regional Theatre

Check out the  Roxy Regional Theatre , which has been around since the 1940s and still shows plays and movies today. The iconic movie house still has the classic marquee neon sign.

It is one of Clarksville’s premier entertainment venues offering plays, musicals, concerts, and other live performances year-round. When we visited, we viewed a performance of County Fair .

Customs House Museum and Cultural Center

The  Customs House Museum and Cultural Center  is an educational institution in downtown Clarksville that offers a variety of programs and exhibits related to art, history, science, and more! The museum has several permanent collections on display and rotating exhibits that change throughout the year.

Fort Defiance Civil War Park & Interpretive Center

History buffs will love Fort Defiance , which played a vital role in the Civil War. The fort was built in 1862 by Union troops to protect the city and serves as a museum today. You can learn about the history of the Civil War in this area, see artifacts from the period, and explore the fort’s earthworks and gun platforms.

The center features interactive exhibits that tell the Battle of Fort Defiance story. Visitors can also explore the grounds.  

Clarksville Greenway

This scenic trail offers an excellent experience for both locals and visitors, with beautiful views of the river and forestry. Situated along the Red River and West Fork Creek, this 9-mile trail has gained statewide recognition for its beauty and popularity.

But here’s the best part – the Clarksville Greenway  is more than just a trail. It’s part of the Rails to Trails initiative, transforming old railroad rights of way and river corridors into fabulous walking and biking trails. Not only does it offer a fantastic outdoor experience, but it also promotes environmental stewardship.  You can even bring your furry friend along for the adventure!

Dunbar Cave State Park

Hiking trails, picnic areas, and more are available in this state park, but the Dunbar Cave  steals the show. It is a historic site located in Clarksville, TN. Many of the Clarksville hotels are nearby.

The cave is over 8,000 years old and was once used as a shelter by Native Americans. Today, guided tours allow visitors to explore the cave and learn about its history.  

In the 50s, the cave was the place to socialize in the evenings, with dances held near the entrance. When it was hot in Tennessee, the cold air from the cave was refreshing.  

Clarksville Downtown Market

If you love browsing unique local goods, then be sure to check out the Clarksville Downtown Market . This outdoor market is held every Saturday from May to October and features local artisans, farmers, and food vendors.

Shop for handmade jewelry, artwork, jams, and baked goods while enjoying live music and a picturesque setting. You might even meet their mascot, “Corny the Cob.”

Liberty Park & Wilma Rudolph Statue

Liberty Park  is an outdoor paradise located in downtown Clarksville. The park features over 300 acres of lush green space with trails for walking or biking, playgrounds for children, pavilions, picnic tables, a fishing pond, sports fields, and a dog park.

A highlight for me was visiting the Wilma Rudolph Event Center and statue. I enjoyed learning more about her life and Olympic adventure.

Blackhorse Pub & Brewery

Blackhorse Pub & Brewery serves up some delicious craft beer made in Clarksville. It was the first of seven current craft breweries in the city. They also have delicious pub food.

They offer flights so you can sample several different brews before deciding which one(s) you want to take home with you – cheers!

Downtown Artist Co-op

The Downtown Artist Co-op  is a mecca for art lovers and creators alike. It is a collaborative space where local artists can showcase their works in a stunning gallery setting. The airy, light-filled space is a feast for the senses, with works ranging from colorful paintings to jewelry.

With an ever-evolving roster of exhibitions and events, the Downtown Artist Co-op is an absolute must-visit for anyone who loves art.

There are a few incredible sculptures in the area that you should check out. The Children’s Fountain  at Strawberry Alley and The Day After , located between Second and Commerce Streets. And you definitely need to catch the sculpture on Franklin Street of Frank Sutton, who played Sgt. Carter  from the Gomer Pyle show.

They also have some beautiful murals throughout the town.

Miss Lucille’s Marketplace

Step into the beautiful world of Miss Lucille’s , where you’ll find a treasure trove of goodies spanning over 52,000 sq. feet! As you navigate the aisles of vendor booths, you’ll discover a delightful mix of vintage items, one-of-a-kind handmade goods, rare antiques, and unique gifts.

They have spacious aisles and easy access for those with mobility needs.  

Grab lunch at Miss Lucille’s Cafe for delicious local fare.

Beachaven Vineyards & Winery

This family-owned business produces award-winning wines in the heart of Middle Tennessee. It is a beautiful place. Before sampling the wine in the tasting room, take a guided tour of the vineyards and production facilities.  

Beachaven Vineyards & Winery  is located just outside downtown Clarksville near Austin Peay State University. Visitors will find acres upon acres of vineyards producing some truly exceptional wines.

McGregor Park

Take a leisurely walk along the beautiful Cumberland River at McGregor Park . It’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery. And if you’re feeling energetic, why not try out the automated bike share system, Clarksville BCycle?

But that’s not all! McGregor Park offers a range of amenities to enhance your visit. Stroll along the 1-mile walking trail, or launch your boat into the Cumberland River using the public boat ramp. There are also picnic areas and restrooms available for your convenience.

Cumberland Riverwalk

The  Cumberland Riverwalk , sometimes called the McGregor Park Riverwalk, has miles of hiking paths and walking trails. This beautiful trail starts at McGregor Park and runs along the Cumberland River. You can even connect to the Red River Trail at the north end, which leads to the Clarksville Greenway.

If you head south, the Riverwalk will take you to the heart of downtown Clarksville via a pedestrian bridge over Riverside Drive.

Foodie Finds

The food scene in Clarksville is what surprised me the most. They have delicious scratch-made, locally sourced eateries. A few of our favorites are the Wild Flour Bake Shop , The Mailroom , Strawberry Alley Ale Works , Legend’s  and Edward’s Steak House .

Historic Collinsville

Escape the chaos and return to a simpler era at Historic Collinsville Pioneer Settlement . Experience the charm of handmade toys, tools, clothing, and furniture. Immerse yourself in a world where food is grown in the garden. When we visited, we had the opportunity to make butter in a baby food jar.  

Embark on a self-guided tour through 16 meticulously restored log homes and outbuildings spread across 40 picturesque acres. The open-air setting allows you to feel the tranquility of the past as you soak in the authentic period furnishings and artifacts that showcase rural life before and after the Civil War.

Conveniently located just minutes from downtown Clarksville, Collinsville offers children a safe and engaging learning environment.

Old Glory Distilling Company

Want to know the secret to crafting the perfect whiskey and bourbon? At Old Glory Distilling Co , they believe it’s all about doing things the right way. A small batch artisan distillery, they source grains from local farmers they know and trust, and they never cut corners. Every step of the process, from grinding and cooking to fermenting and distilling, happens on-site. And when it comes to aging, they let the oak barrels work their magic with time.

When we visited, we participated in a tasting of moonshine, bourbon, and whiskey.  

There are many reasons to visit Clarksville, a hidden gem in Tennessee. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, there’s something for everyone in this charming southern town.

About the Red River watershed

Drainage area.

1457 square miles

Notable Tributaries

• West Fork Red River
• Sulphur Fork

COUNTY/STATE

• Christian County, KY
• Davidson County, TN
• Logan County, KY
• Montgomery County, TN
• Robertson County. TN
• Simpson County, KY
• Stewart County, TN
• Sumner County, TN
• Todd County, KY
• Trigg County, KY

Waters within the Red River watershed drain to the 97-mile Red River before emptying into the Cumberland River in Clarksville, TN. Flatter than the neighboring Lower Cumberland watershed, the Red’s karst-filled terrain interacts with a complex network of above and below ground streams where springs and sinkholes abound.

The Red is distinctive in many ways. It has less surface water and less forest per square mile than any other watershed in the Cumberland River basin. It is home to more cropland than other basin watershed. Tobacco farming has a rich, centuries-old history in the area, and farmers grow corn, soybeans, and grain as well. Cattle, chicken, and egg production are also prevalent. At one time, there was a great deal of bluestem prairie in the Red River watershed, but today there is less native grassland than any other watershed in the basin.

Within the Red River watershed, sections of the Red River, the West and South Fork of the Red, and the Elk Fork and Sulphur Fork are all on the Nationwide Rivers Inventory – a federal listing of streams recognized for having outstanding scenic, recreational, or cultural qualities. Dunbar Cave and Port Royal state parks, as well as the Dunbar Cave State Natural Area, and the Fort Campbell and Cedar Hill Swamp wildlife management areas are all located here.

Like other watersheds in the basin, an abundance of wildlife relies on the Red’s water resources. Even within the watershed’s water-sculpted caves and caverns, there are fascinating species such as translucent “blind cave crayfish” and endangered gray bats. 

Parks in this watershed

Port royal state historic park, dunbar cave state park, explore the red river watershed, rendezvous on the red, cumberland basin holiday guide 2021, about this site.

The Cumberland River Basin project aims to promote the ecological and economical health of the Cumberland River Basin, an 18,000 square mile region that stretches across 70 Tennessee and Kentucky counties and home to more than 2 million people. 

Photography

A majority of the photography featured on this site was provided courtesy of Chuck Sutherland. For more information please visit Chuck’s website.

The Cumberland River Compact works to enhance the health and enjoyment of the Cumberland River and its tributaries through education, restoration, and collaboration. Learn more by visiting cumberlandrivercompact.org .

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River Adventures Nashville

Just relax and go with the flow.

Tubing on the beautiful Red River located in Adams, TN.

We are a family owned and operated water tube rental service located in historic Adams, TN, minutes away from Nashville and Clarksville located at 610 Keysburg Road, Adams, TN 37010.

Red River Canoe Rental

8002 US Highway 41, Adams, TN 37010

(615) 696-2768

Red River Canoe Rentals has been in operation since 1985.  We pride ourselves on being a family-owned business that has been providing exciting river rides to novice and experienced paddlers for over 30 years. There are many events and things to do in the Valley that will make your trip a truly memorable one.    

Located off of I-24, just 30 minutes from Nashville.  We are situated on 70+ breathtaking acres along the Red River in Adams, TN.   Float the Red River past the famous Bell Witch Cave. 

The river is considered a Class I and II.  Red River is a moderately shallow river with sandy beaches and rock bottom.  There are several small sandbars midway down the course, so bring your picnic basket for a day float or pack for an overnight trip on the river.  

25 Jefferson Street Suite 300 Clarksville, TN 37040     |     1 (800) 530-2487

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Middle Tennessee rain totals: 8 inches fell in Sumner County, some areas still under flood warnings

Middle Tennessee was slammed with severe weather that resulted in at least one death and several injuries , some of them serious, Wednesday afternoon into Thursday morning.

A tornado ripped through Columbia as the rest of Middle Tennessee was hit with high winds, large hail and torrential downpours over the last 24 hours. At least two people died in Tennessee because of the widespread storm system, and while the brunt of the storm may have passed, flooding is still an issue.

"Most of the Midstate remains covered by Flash Flood warnings due to the excessive rainfall over the past 24 hrs . And as river levels rise, there will be some river flood products issued as stages increase above action," read the forecast discussion from the National Weather Service Nashville.

This comes after reports of half a foot to upwards of eight inches of rain were dumped on Middle Tennessee and other parts of the state, according to reports from USA TODAY and weather services .

Rain totals for Middle Tennessee communities

Middle Tennessee is a bit water logged at the moment. Rain fall totals for communities range to just under an inch to almost eight inches of rain in less than a 24-hour period. Here are some of the latest rain fall totals in communities in Middle Tennessee from the National Weather Service .

• Columbia: 2.46 inches
• Old Hickory Dam: 5 inches
• Clarksville: 5.13 inches
• Hunters Point: 5.94 inches
• White House: 6.09 inches
• Woodbury: 6.15 inches
• Orlinda: 6.39 inches
• Springfield: 6.57 inches
• Lebanon 7N: 7.07 inches
• Bethpage: 7.92 inches

Flooding in Nashville, Middle Tennessee

The National Weather Service issued a flood warning for areas across Middle Tennessee Thursday morning into the afternoon as areas along the Cumberland River began to hit flood levels. Areas still under a flood warning include:

• Cumberland River at Clarksville affecting Montgomery County
• Cumberland River at Nashville affecting Davidson County
• Cumberland River at Dover affecting Stewart County

The weather service also expects moderate flooding in areas along the Cumberland River including: Edenwold, Hermitage, Pennington Bend, Omohundro Water Plant, Nashville, Bordeaux, Briley Parkway At Cockrill Bend, Ashland City, Clarksville and Dover.

There is still concern about flash flooding in Middle Tennessee with the communities of Springfield, Greenbrier and Coopertown under a warning until 1 p.m.

What is flash flooding?

Flash flooding usually begins within six hours, but often within three hours, of heavy rain or mass amounts of water accumulating in an area, according to the National Weather Service.

This type of flooding usually happens very quickly and catches people off guard. It can be caused by a number of things, but is often due to extremely heavy rainfall from thunderstorms.

"The intensity of the rainfall, the location and distribution of the rainfall, the land use and topography, vegetation types and growth/density, soil type, and soil water-content all determine just how quickly the flash flooding may occur, and influence where it may occur," writes the National Weather Service .

River levels in Nashville Middle Tennessee

Take a look at the river levels in areas around Middle Tennessee and Nashville by clicking on the dots on the map.

Power outage map Tennessee

More than 150,000 homes and businesses were without power across parts of Tennessee and North Carolina on Thursday morning,  according to a USA TODAY outage tracker . Power was being restored as clean up efforts continued. Keep an eye on outages in Tennessee below.