Cove Lake State Park's 673 acres are situated in a beautiful mountain valley setting on the eastern edge of the Cumberland Mountains. There are scenic nature trails and bike trails leading through the open grasslands and woodlands. In the winter, several hundred Canada Geese make this lakeshore their feeding ground. Nearby is the Devil's Race Track whose steep pinnacle rock affords a panoramic view.

Biking

There is a 3.5 mile paved hiking trail that is also used for biking. There is no mountain biking in the park. Mountain bikers can visit nearby Cross Mountain which is only 5 miles from Cove Lake.

Boating

Rowboats and pedal boats are available for rent on the lake, but no personally owned boats are permitted. No gas powered motors are allowed but you may bring your own electric trolling motor to put on the fishing boats. Boat rental is year-round.

Tennessee Boating Regulations (exit TDEC)

Camping

The Cove Lake visitor is served with 100 campsites. All sites are equipped with water and electrical hookups, and most with grills and tables. A dump station is available, as are two modern bathhouses containing hot showers, commodes, and lavatories. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Stay limit is two weeks. Tents are allowed on all the campsites.

For more camping information call 423-566-9701.

Fishing

Year-round fishing is permitted on 210-acre Cove Lake. There is no park fee for fishing but a valid temporary or annual Tennessee fishing license is necessary for persons over 15. Bass and bluegill are the best sporting fish in the lake, but good catches of crappie always tempt the angler. Fishing is allowed from anywhere on the banks of the lake.

Tennessee Fishing Regulations (exit TDEC)
Tennessee State Parks fishing policies

Hiking Trails

There is a 3.5 mile paved hiking trail that is also used for biking. There is no mountain biking in the park. Mountain bikers can visit nearby Cross Mountain which is only 5 miles from Cove Lake.

Meeting Facility

There is one indoor pavilion that can be used for meetings, weddings, rehearsal dinners, family reunions, church picnics and wedding receptions. It is equipped with a full size kitchen and central heat and air. Snacks are not provided but a leased restaurant is located next door. The pavilion can accommodate up to 100 people.

Indoor Pavilion Brochure

Picnic Facilities

There are 112 picnic tables and grills to serve the Cove Lake day-user. Most sites are located adjacent to the lake. Six large picnic pavilions are provided for family reunions and other large group use. Playgrounds, playfields, restrooms and water are conveniently located to serve picnickers. Picnic areas are not covered but they are situated in shady locations.

Three of the pavilions can seat up to 50 people and three can seat 60-65 people. Pavilions may be reserved up to one year in advance.Unreserved pavillions are available on a first come-first serve basis.

Restaurant

Rickard Ridge BBQ at Cove Lake is now open. Hours of operation are Monday - Thursday 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Friday & Saturday 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Sunday 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Restaurant features BBQ pork, Ribs, Chicken, Black Angus Burgers, and Catfish. Combo platters, sandwiches, appetizers, fresh salads, and desserts are also offered daily. Group take-out specials, catering, and wedding packages are also available. For more information please call 423-907-8202.

Swimming

The outdoor swimming pool complex is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day and offers an Olympic-sized swimming pool, kiddy pool, and restrooms. The charge is $3.00 per person, children 2 years and under are free. Operating hours are 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The pool is currently closed Monday through Friday, operating only on Saturday and Sunday until Labor Day. 

Other Activities

Cove Lake visitors can enjoy badminton, shuffleboard, horseshoes, field games, volleyball, playgrounds, ping-pong, tennis, and many other activities including a paved walking and bicycling trail. Recreation equipment is available on a free checkout system at the boat dock in the summer months or in the park office during the winter months.

Tour Buses

Tour buses are welcome.