Cages Bend

4.46

656 reviews

1125 BENDERS FERRY ROAD

Summer Destination

Featured in:Camping Near Nashville Boating Camping Tennessee RV Camping Tennessee +6 more

Quick Facts

482 ft

Price

$30 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

43 campsites

Season

Open from April 1 th...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens U.S. Army Corps of Engineers site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

482 ft

Price

$30 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

43 campsites

Season

Open from April 1 th...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens U.S. Army Corps of Engineers site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Cages Bend

$30.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Peak season nightly rates for Standard Electric sites range from $30 to $35. Discounts may apply for holders of senior passes.

Standard Site Fee$30.00

Hookup Site Fee$35.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

615-824-4989

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What Campers Say

4.46

Recommended

Based on 656 reviews

206 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeacefullakefriendly

"User reviews for Cages Bend are mixed, with strong appreciation for the scenic beauty of Old Hickory Lake and spacious campsites but frequent criticism of outdated facilities and maintenance issues."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

1125 BENDERS FERRY ROAD

Cages Bend

1125 BENDERS FERRY ROAD

Driving directionsFrom Nashville, TN, travel North on I-65 and take TN-386/Vietnam Veterans Blvd. Continue to exit 12, Big Station Camp Blvd. Turn right onto Big Station Camp Blvd. Continue straight across Nashville Pike onto Cages Bend Road. Take Cages Bend Road to Benders Ferry Road. The recreation area will be ahead on the left.

Road access quality is described as narrow and includes sharp curves and overhanging branches. Users noted that road width could be problematic for large rigs. 'Use Cages Bend all the way from 31 vs. Shute Lane and avoid some of the curves and overhanging branches.'

Nearby places

Gallatin, TN (approximately 5 miles, 10–15 minutes travel time). Hendersonville, TN (approximately 30 minutes). Downtown Nashville, TN (just over a 30-minute drive).

Nearby supplies

Grocery stores like Kroger and various restaurants and gas stations are within 5 miles in Gallatin, TN.

Best Time to Camp at Cages Bend

Experience the dynamic personality of Tennessee's seasons at Cages Bend, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Spring's gentle rains occasionally swell the lake's boundaries, creating an ever-changing waterscape that adds drama to your camping adventure. Late spring emerges as a sweet spot for visitors, with wildflowers dotting the shoreline and perfect temperatures for outdoor exploration. As summer's heat gives way to autumn's crisp air, the campground transforms into a photographer's dream, with golden light filtering through changing leaves and ideal conditions for cozy campfire evenings. Winter brings its own quiet beauty, though spring rains may occasionally test the landscape with higher water levels.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

2.0 / 5

Summer is hot, crowded and bathhouses can be stifling per reviews.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall is a peak season praised for cooler weather and vibrant surroundings.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring is a peak season with pleasant weather and vibrant nature; reviews note it favorably.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed Nov–Mar (open Apr 1–Oct 30).

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 1 to October 30.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from April 1 through October 30 annually. Reservations for individual sites are released on a rolling 6-month basis.

About Cages Bend

Nestled along the shimmering shores of Old Hickory Lake, Cages Bend beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of waterfront adventure and natural tranquility. This scenic campground serves as your gateway to endless aquatic recreation, where mornings begin with the gentle lapping of waves and evenings end with spectacular sunsets over the water. Whether you're launching your boat from the convenient ramp, casting a line from the peaceful fishing docks, or watching children laugh and play at the well-equipped playground, every moment here connects you with nature's rhythms. The thoughtfully placed picnic shelters invite family gatherings under the canopy of trees, while birders and wildlife photographers discover a paradise of species waiting to be captured through lens and memory.

Cages Bend Campground offers versatile camping options catered to tent campers, RV enthusiasts, and group campers, with accessible sites available.

Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure at Cages Bend places you within reach of America's storied past. Just a short drive away stands The Hermitage, the majestic National Historic Landmark that once served as home to President Andrew Jackson. This proximity allows modern campers to blend outdoor recreation with historical exploration, creating a uniquely enriching experience where you can paddle the same waters and walk the same lands that have witnessed centuries of American history.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic personality of Tennessee's seasons at Cages Bend, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Spring's gentle rains occasionally swell the lake's boundaries, creating an ever-changing waterscape that adds drama to your camping adventure. Late spring emerges as a sweet spot for visitors, with wildflowers dotting the shoreline and perfect temperatures for outdoor exploration. As summer's heat gives way to autumn's crisp air, the campground transforms into a photographer's dream, with golden light filtering through changing leaves and ideal conditions for cozy campfire evenings. Winter brings its own quiet beauty, though spring rains may occasionally test the landscape with higher water levels.

Natural Features and SceneryAwaken to a landscape where water meets woodland in perfect harmony at Cages Bend. The campground's prime position on Old Hickory Lake offers front-row seats to nature's daily performances – from misty mornings when the reservoir mirrors the sky to golden afternoons when the surrounding forest comes alive with activity. Ancient trees frame panoramic water views, creating natural picture windows at every turn. The woodland habitat serves as a thriving ecosystem where diverse wildlife finds sanctuary, making each day an opportunity for discovery and each evening a chance to witness nature's spectacular light shows reflected across the water's surface.

Geological RegionCages Bend sits proudly along the edges of Old Hickory Lake, an impressive 22,500-acre aquatic jewel created by the Cumberland River's flowing waters. This vast reservoir doesn't just provide stunning scenery – it's the lifeblood of a thriving ecosystem where woodland and water merge. The surrounding forest habitat pulses with life, from the smallest songbirds flitting through the canopy to mammals padding silently along the shoreline at dawn. This unique intersection of river-fed reservoir and deciduous woodland creates a biodiversity hotspot where patient observers are rewarded with glimpses of herons fishing in the shallows, deer approaching the water's edge, and countless other species that call this remarkable landscape home.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

3:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Varies by site capacity.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground includes waterfront, terraced, and elevated sites. Some sites feature patios and picnic areas.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or through the mobile app.

Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-ins are allowed; all campsites must be reserved in advance.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations made the day before, or up to the day after arrival, will incur the first night’s use fee plus a $10 cancellation fee. No-shows are charged a $20 fee plus the first night’s use fee.

AccessibilityFour campsites meet accessibility standards, and there is accessible parking and an accessible shower. However, the family/handicap restroom with a shower was reportedly locked for several weeks during one stay.

Site SizeSites vary from small to spacious, with some sites large enough to accommodate big rigs. For example, site #16 was described as 'very large,' while site #17 offered 'large sites with lots of shade.

PrivacySome sites offer a high level of privacy. For instance, sites #1 and #2 are described as being away from others, providing quiet and privacy. However, waterfront sites are closer together.

Total Campsites43 campsites

Recommended SitesSite #28 offers a concrete pad and patio area by the lake. Site #15 is ideal for fishing but has limited awning space due to tree placement.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Cages Bend Campground offers a range of recreational activities focused on water-based fun, wildlife observation, and relaxation. Popular activities include fishing, boating, kayaking, sailing, and birdwatching. The playground provides entertainment for children.

FishingFishing is a major activity at the campground, with opportunities for catching catfish, crappie, and bass. However, some users reported difficulties due to debris along the shoreline and excessive algae. One user mentioned, 'Too much algae and weeds to make fishing from the bank any fun.'

BoatingBoating is highly encouraged, with a boat ramp provided in the campground. Activities include kayaking and sailing. Some reviewers noted difficulties launching due to debris along the shoreline.

Wildlife viewingThe campground is ideal for observing wildlife such as migratory songbirds, waterfowl, and white-tailed deer. One review stated, 'Each time we visited, we saw deer. They are pretty tame.'

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential dangers include narrow roads for large RVs, high grass on campsites, debris on shorelines, and flooding during heavy rains.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted within designated fire pits. Firewood must be locally sourced.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are in Gallatin, TN, approximately 5 miles away, including hospitals, police stations, and fire stations.

Trash & RecyclingTrash dumpsters are provided but were reportedly not emptied frequently enough during some users' stays. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to Old Hickory Lake, with direct access via boat ramps and fishing docks.

Camp HostHosts are generally described as friendly, with noted exceptions during disputes over policies.

Weather at Cages Bend

Reviews

4.5

656 reviews

Recommended

Cages Bend is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Cages Bend are mixed, with strong appreciation for the scenic beauty of Old Hickory Lake and spacious campsites but frequent criticism of outdated facilities and maintenance issues.

Review Summaries

Based on 656 reviews

What Campers Love

Guests often praise the peaceful environment, lakefront views, and friendly campground hosts. One user stated, 'We love Cages Bend, the grounds are beautiful very well kept. The host Willy is super...

Based on 656 reviews

Common Concerns

Issues include aging facilities, lack of cleanliness in restrooms, and poor shoreline maintenance. Some users also found the roads and campsite layouts challenging for larger vehicles.

Based on 656 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Many users recommend booking well in advance due to high demand. Guests with large RVs are advised to use Cages Bend Road rather than Shute Lane for easier access.

Based on 656 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are peak seasons for camping, with guests enjoying cooler weather and vibrant natural surroundings. Summer is less favorable due to hot, crowded conditions and stifling bathhouses.

Based on 656 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Beautiful campground and views.' 2. 'The sites are spacious with amazing views of Old Hickory Lake.' 3. 'Bathrooms are outdated and hot, but the campground itself is peaceful and lovely.' 4....

Based on 656 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #15: Tight for larger trailers and surrounded by debris on the shoreline. Site #16: Spacious but difficult to back into. Site #28: Beautiful lakefront site with a paved pad and shaded...

Based on 656 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible sites are available, but some users stated the family/handicap restroom and shower were locked during their visit. Accessibility parking and showers are provided.

Based on 656 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but some users reported barking dogs during quiet hours. One reviewer appreciated the staff's kindness towards their dog, receiving a dog biscuit at check-in.

Based on 656 reviews

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