Discover Reelfoot Lake, Tennessee
Reelfoot Lake is a unique and beautiful natural lake located in the northwestern tip of Tennessee, near the Kentucky border and about 135 miles north of Memphis.
The lake was formed by earthquakes in 1811-12. These earthquakes altered the course of the Mississippi River, creating this fascinating body of water.
As you make your way through the area, you’ll notice that Reelfoot Lake is surrounded by acres of lush forest and offers miles of hiking trails for you to enjoy. Besides hiking, the lake is also popular for fishing and bird watching, with a rich diversity of wildlife inhabiting the area.
Top 3 Facts about Reelfoot Lake in Tennessee
01
Unique Origin
Reelfoot Lake is one of the few natural lakes in Tennessee, formed by a series of powerful earthquakes in 1811-1812 that caused the Mississippi River to flow backward, creating this picturesque lake.
02
Abundant Wildlife
Known as a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, Reelfoot Lake is home to a diverse array of fauna, including bald eagles, ospreys, herons, and even the elusive American alligator, offering unparalleled opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography.
03
Fishing Paradise
Anglers flock to Reelfoot Lake for its exceptional fishing opportunities. The lake is renowned for its abundance of crappie, bass, catfish, and bluegill, making it a prime destination for casual and serious fishermen.
Must See Attractions
Blue Basin Cove
Cove
Known for its serene beauty and excellent birdwatching opportunities, Blue Basin Cove offers tranquil waters surrounded by lush vegetation, perfect for kayaking and wildlife observation.
Reelfoot Wildlife Refuge
Wildlife Refuge
Located on the lake’s northern end, the wildlife refuge is a haven for waterfowl and migratory birds. Visitors can view these birds from observation platforms and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the marshlands.
Tiptonville Memorial Park
Park
Located nearby, this park offers a peaceful setting with picnic areas, walking paths, and lake views. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon or evening outing.
Annual Events and Festivals
February
Eagle Festival
Held during peak eagle-watching season, the Eagle Festival celebrates the majestic bald eagles that winter at Reelfoot Lake.
Activities typically include guided eagle-watching tours, educational programs, and presentations by wildlife experts.
October
Reelfoot Arts & Crafts Festival
This festival showcases local artisans and craftsmen, offering a variety of handmade goods, including artwork, pottery, jewelry, and more.
It’s a great opportunity to shop for unique souvenirs and support local artists.
Various Dates
Fishing Tournaments
Throughout the year, Reelfoot Lake hosts several fishing tournaments, including bass tournaments and crappie fishing contests.
These events attract anglers from across the region to compete for prizes and enjoy the excellent fishing opportunities the lake offers.
Top Hiking Trails
Boardwalk Trail
Reelfoot Lake State Park Visitor Center
This elevated boardwalk extends into the cypress forest, providing excellent views of the lake and its wildlife.
It’s an easy, accessible trail suitable for all ages and offers interpretive signs along the way.
Woodland Trail
Reelfoot Lake State Park Campground
This trail winds through woodlands and along the lake’s edge, offering opportunities to spot birds and other wildlife.
It’s a moderate trail with some elevation changes, making it ideal for a longer hike or nature walk.
Grassy Island Trail
Grassy Island Parking Area
Located on the northern end of Reelfoot Lake, this trail leads through open fields and alongside the lake, offering expansive views and opportunities for birdwatching.
It’s a relatively easy trail with minimal elevation change.
Water Sports
Boating
Explore the tranquil waters of Reelfoot Lake by boat.
Whether you prefer kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, or powerboating, there are plenty of opportunities to navigate the lake’s channels and open waters.
Fishing
Reelfoot Lake is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers can catch a variety of fish species, including crappie, bass, catfish, and bluegill.
The lake’s shallow waters and abundant fish populations make it a favorite destination for fishing enthusiasts.
Sunset Cruises
Experience the beauty of Reelfoot Lake at dusk by taking a sunset cruise.
Many local operators offer guided tours that highlight the scenic vistas and tranquil ambiance of the lake during sunset.
Winter Activities
Eagle Watching
Winter is prime time for bald eagle watching at Reelfoot Lake.
Guided tours and boat excursions are available to observe these majestic birds as they winter along the lake’s shores and islands.
Photography
Winter provides stunning photographic opportunities at Reelfoot Lake.
Capture the stark beauty of frozen cypress trees, icy shorelines, and migratory birds against the backdrop of the lake’s serene waters.
Hiking & Nature Walks
Enjoy peaceful walks along the lake’s trails and boardwalks.
The winter landscape offers a tranquil atmosphere for nature enthusiasts to explore and observe the lake’s natural beauty.
Where to Eat
Blue Bank Resort Restaurant
$$ – $$$ • Southern, Seafood, Steak
Boyette’s Dining Room
$$ – $$$ • Southern
Reelfoot Lake Inn Restaurant
$$ – $$$ • American, Seafood
Where to Shop
Blue Bank Resort Gift Shop
Gift shop
Reelfoot Lake State Park Gift Shop
Gift shop
Downtown Tiptonville Shops
Shops and boutiques
Where to Sleep
Tips on Renting a Vacation Home on Reelfoot Lake
Start Planning Early
Begin your search for vacation rentals well in advance, especially during peak seasons or popular holidays. This ensures you have a better selection of properties to choose from.
Research Locations
Decide on the specific area of Reelfoot Lake where you want to stay. Whether you prefer lakefront views, secluded cabins in the woods, or proximity to particular activities, choose a location that suits your preferences and needs.
Read Reviews
Read reviews from previous renters to gauge the quality of the vacation home and the responsiveness of the property owner or rental agency.
Communicate with the Host
Maintain open communication with the property owner or rental agency throughout the booking process. Clarify any questions about the property, amenities, check-in procedures, and local tips for making the most of your stay.
Going Deeper: History and Cultural Significance of Reelfoot Lake
Reelfoot Lake, nestled in northwest Tennessee, has a rich history and cultural significance dating back centuries. Formed by a series of powerful earthquakes in the early 19th century, the lake’s creation drastically altered the landscape, submerging forests and creating a unique habitat for diverse wildlife.
For the area’s indigenous peoples, including the Chickasaw and Choctaw tribes, Reelfoot Lake held spiritual importance and provided sustenance through its abundant natural resources. In the 20th century, the lake became a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, drawn to its exceptional fishing, birdwatching, and scenic beauty.
Today, Reelfoot Lake continues to captivate visitors with its tranquil waters, cypress-lined shores, and historical significance, serving as a reminder of the dynamic forces of nature and the enduring cultural heritage of Tennessee’s wilderness.
Frequently Asked Questions about Reelfoot Lake
Reelfoot Lake was formed by a series of earthquakes in the early 19th century, known as the New Madrid earthquakes. These seismic events caused the Mississippi River to flow backward, creating the lake.
Visitors can observe a variety of wildlife at Reelfoot Lake, including bald eagles, ospreys, herons, alligators, and numerous species of migratory birds. It’s a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Popular activities at Reelfoot Lake include fishing (for crappie, bass, catfish, etc.), boating, kayaking, canoeing, hiking along scenic trails, birdwatching, and photography.
The best times to visit Reelfoot Lake are spring and fall, for pleasant weather and abundant wildlife. Winter is ideal for eagle-watching, while summer offers fishing and water activities opportunities.
Reelfoot Lake is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers can catch crappie, bass, catfish, and other fish species year-round, though spring and fall are considered prime fishing seasons.