Go Camping in the Middle of Nashville but Feel a Million Miles Away!

A little known secret: there are islands on Percy Priest Lake where you can camp!  Some (but not all) have primitive campsites and you don't need a permit or reservation - which means this little gem of an adventure is low budget and can be done relatively last minute.  Check out which islands and take your pick here. 

It's quite an adventure to paddle your way to an island and camp there - and to see the lights of the city from the island's perspective.  Our choice for our island night away was Luau Island - it is TINY, popular (though we had it to ourselves for a while), BUT only a 30-minute paddle from “Safe Harbor RV resort” where we parked ($8).  We did not feel comfortable boiling/drinking the water of the lake so we brought tons of water, a macaroni and cheese dinner, and oatmeal for the morning. We also brought our camping favorites: materials for S'mores and instant coffee/condensed milk.

If you are planning to light a fire, you will need to bring firewood to Luau Island - there isn't really any driftwood nearby. We noticed stones and fire grates there but didn't use them (just camped over our camp stove).

We brought swimsuits and enjoyed a sunset swim - there are rocky areas so I suggest bringing water shoes (Keens, etc.).

The wind kept the bugs away during the evening but they were there in the AM so come prepared.  Also: be prepared for noise - boats, and music - which travels well across the water.  The adults in our group will make up for the lost sleep later, but I hope my girls will remember this little adventure forever (they slept fine).