Tennessee State Parks: Tims Ford State Park

Tims Ford State Park is one of southern Tennessee’s hidden gems—a peaceful, lakeside escape tucked into the rolling hills of Franklin County. In this short but scenic drive, we explore a one-mile stretch of Tims Ford Road that runs directly through the heart of the park, offering a quick glimpse into what makes this destination so popular with locals and travelers alike.

Our drive begins at the main entrance to the state park, just off Mansford Road. Right away, you’ll notice the dense tree cover that defines much of the landscape here. The road winds gently through a canopy of hardwoods and pines, casting dappled light across the pavement and giving off that classic “state park in summer” feel. This stretch of Tims Ford Road is a simple two-lane path, but it’s remarkably well-maintained and easy to navigate—even for larger vehicles like campers or trailers heading in for a weekend stay.

As we continue along the route, the forest opens up in spots to reveal glimpses of Tims Ford Lake—a sprawling, serpentine reservoir with over 10,000 acres of surface area. While the lake itself isn’t fully visible from the road on this short drive, its presence is unmistakable in the cooler breeze, the birdsong, and the faint scent of water drifting through the trees. Just a short walk from the road are several trails and lake access points, including the Marble Plains Loop Trail and the start of the Devil’s Step Campground trail system.

Roughly halfway through the drive, we pass one of the many trailhead parking areas, as well as signage pointing toward the marina, cabins, and the park’s golf course. Tims Ford State Park is unusually well-developed for a rural Tennessee park, with ample amenities that cater to day-trippers and extended-stay guests alike. The Bear Trace at Tims Ford—a Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course—is just a few minutes from this road and offers lakeside fairways and excellent views.

We end our video just before the main picnic area, which includes covered shelters, barbecue grills, and easy access to the lake’s edge. This is one of the most popular spots in the park for families, especially during the warmer months. Just beyond the picnic area lies the Visitor Center, where you can get maps, souvenirs, and helpful info from park rangers. A bit further past that, the road continues deeper into the park toward the marina and the boat ramp, both of which are major draws for anglers and boating enthusiasts.

Even though this drive is short—just about a mile—it captures the serene atmosphere and well-kept charm that define Tims Ford State Park. Whether you’re coming for a weekend hike, a lakeside barbecue, or a full week in one of the modern cabins, this small stretch of road is your gateway into one of Tennessee’s most versatile state parks. The combination of woodland beauty, lake access, and family-friendly amenities makes it a go-to destination year-round.

If you’re planning to explore more of the surrounding area, consider extending your drive through Pleasant Hill and Cobb Hollow Road up to Lynchburg, or head east to Winchester for more small-town charm. No matter which direction you go, the roads around Tims Ford offer peaceful scenery and that classic Tennessee countryside experience.