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Frequently Asked Questions

Reelfoot Lake is Tennessee’s only large natural lake. It was formed by a series of violent earthquakes, known as the New Madrid Earthquakes, in 1811-1812. These seismic events caused the forest floor to sink and the Mississippi River to flow backward, filling the depression and creating the lake.

Reelfoot Lake is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Key activities include fishing, boating, kayaking/canoeing, hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. Pontoon tours are also a popular way to explore the lake.

The best times to visit are generally in the fall and spring when the weather is mild and wildlife is most active. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter (January and February) is prime for bald eagle viewing. Spring (April and May) is excellent for crappie and bluegill fishing.

Reelfoot Lake is a haven for diverse wildlife. It’s renowned for its large population of American bald eagles, especially in winter, and white pelicans in the fall. You can also spot a variety of other shorebirds, wading birds, waterfowl, and other animals like turtles, snakes, and even some mammals.

Yes, fishing is very popular at Reelfoot Lake, known for its crappie and bluegill. You will need a valid Tennessee fishing license and potentially specific lake permits. Regulations vary by fish species (e.g., size limits, possession limits), and it’s essential to check current rules for species like black crappie, blue catfish, and bluegill. Gasoline-powered boats are prohibited in TWRA areas from April 1 to May 31.

Yes, there are a range of lodging options, including charming cabins (some pet-friendly) at Reelfoot Lake State Park, as well as hotels and resorts like Blue Bank Resort and Eagle Nest Resort in nearby towns.

No, swimming is generally not permitted in Reelfoot Lake due to its unique ecosystem as a flooded forest with many submerged cypress stumps.

Yes, Reelfoot Lake State Park offers various guided tours throughout the year, including popular bald eagle and waterfowl tours in winter, deep swamp canoe trips in March and April, and scenic pontoon boat tours from May through September. Reservations are often required.

Reelfoot Lake is a “flooded forest” with a unique ecosystem. Majestic cypress trees rise from the water, and there are many submerged cypress stumps. The lake is also home to a variety of aquatic plants and flowers, and it serves as a major stopover and wintering area for migratory birds along the Mississippi Flyway.

Reelfoot Lake State Park offers facilities like a museum and nature center, hiking trails, and picnic areas. It’s advisable to check the Tennessee State Parks website or contact the park directly for current information on accessibility, especially regarding any temporary closures or renovations (e.g., the South Campground renovation or boardwalk closures due to storm damage).

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