Concord Park and The Cove
A picturesque lakeside escape in Knoxville, offering swimming, paddling, volleyball, and scenic trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful lake views
Concord Park and The Cove
Best Time
Peaceful lake views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque lakeside escape in Knoxville, offering swimming, paddling, volleyball, and scenic trails.
"The Cove at Concord Park is an absolute dream for a perfect day by the water."
Reserve a Gazebo
First-come, first-served grills are plentiful, but reserve the gazebo for guaranteed space for events! :ticket:
Water Activities Galore
Bring paddleboards, kayaks, or just your swimsuit for a dip in the lake! :kayak:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cove Waterfront
The Cove at Concord Park
Glistening lake views, sandy beach, and boat marina. Perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Volleyball Courts
Near the main park area
Well-maintained sand courts for a friendly game or just to watch the action.
Paved Walking Trails
Throughout the park
Scenic paved paths perfect for a stroll, jog, or dog walk with beautiful lake vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Pack for Lakeside Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reserve a Gazebo
First-come, first-served grills are plentiful, but reserve the gazebo for guaranteed space for events! :ticket:
Water Activities Galore
Bring paddleboards, kayaks, or just your swimsuit for a dip in the lake! :kayak:
Family Photo Ops
The Cove offers stunning backdrops for family photos, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:
Dog-Friendly Strolls
Leashed dogs are welcome on the walking paths. Great for a walk with your furry friend! :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
Reserve a Gazebo
First-come, first-served grills are plentiful, but reserve the gazebo for guaranteed space for events! :ticket:
Water Activities Galore
Bring paddleboards, kayaks, or just your swimsuit for a dip in the lake! :kayak:
Family Photo Ops
The Cove offers stunning backdrops for family photos, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:
Dog-Friendly Strolls
Leashed dogs are welcome on the walking paths. Great for a walk with your furry friend! :dog:
Check Event Schedule
Concerts, festivals, and holiday lights happen here. Plan your visit around special events! :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Concord Park and The Cove for its beautiful lakeside setting, perfect for swimming, paddling, and relaxing. The park's amenities, including volleyball courts and walking trails, are well-loved, and its role as a community event hub is a significant plus. Some visitors note that parking can be challenging during peak times and popular events.
"A Perfect Baby Shower at the Cove Pavilion by the Lake
I recently hosted my daughter’s baby shower at the Cove Pavilion by the Lake, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. From the moment we arrived, the setting felt like something out of a storybook—peaceful, scenic, and full of charm. The lake glistened in the background, providing the perfect backdrop for such a special celebration.
The pavilion was beautifully designed and incredibly accommodating. There was plenty of space for our guests to mingle comfortably, and the layout made it easy to set up decorations, a gift table, and a cozy area for games and conversation. Natural light poured in through the open sides, and a soft breeze off the lake kept everything feeling fresh and relaxing.
If you’re looking for a beautiful, peaceful, and welcoming place to host a baby shower—or any special event—the Cove Pavilion by the Lake is an absolute dream. We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day."
Samantha Lively
"I was at the Cove recently hoping to take some pictures of whatever presented itself. There wasn't much there and I was about to leave when a Great Blue Heron flew overhead and landed on the bank of the lake below Northshore Drive. It was this guy that allowed me to capture the kind of pictures I was hoping for. Here are a few pics that I got along with a groundhog that made a cameo appearance.
This is a great park to go to for all kinds of recreation including swimming, beach volleyball, canoeing, and just hanging out. There are plenty of picnic tables, a great playground, and trees that provide shade. The view of the marina and out over the lake isn't half bad either."
Robert Lebby
"The cove is awesome. There are walking paths, grills, volleyball nets, and lots of cool boats to look at. They also have several fun events throughout the year. Free concert in the summer. They even had jet ski racing."
Nathan Lambert
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Concord Park and The Cove are located in Knoxville, Tennessee. Access is typically via car, with ample parking available. Many visitors use GPS navigation to find the specific entrances for The Cove or the main park areas. :car:+1
Public transportation options to Concord Park may be limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for the most convenient access. :bus:
Concord Park has multiple access points. The Cove area is a popular destination, often accessed via dedicated entrances. Check local maps for the best route to your desired activity. :round_pushpin:
Yes, parking is available at The Cove at Concord Park. During peak times and events, parking lots can fill up quickly, so arriving early is advised. :parking:
Yes, The Cove at Concord Park features a marina, making it accessible by boat for visitors. :ship:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Concord Park and The Cove are generally free to enter and enjoy. There are no admission fees for general park access. :moneywithwings:
While many picnic tables and grills are first-come, first-served, you can reserve the large gazebo for events. It's recommended to book in advance for guaranteed space. :ticket:
Park hours can vary, but generally, Concord Park is open from dawn until dusk. Specific facilities or event areas might have different hours. Always check the Knox County Parks & Recreation website for the most up-to-date information. :clock3:
Yes, The Cove at Concord Park hosts various events throughout the year, including summer concerts, holiday festivals, and community gatherings. Keep an eye on local event listings. :party_popper:
While the park itself doesn't typically rent equipment, visitors often bring their own kayaks, paddleboards, and beach gear to enjoy the lake. :kayak:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can swim, kayak, paddleboard, play beach volleyball, hike on paved trails, picnic, grill, and enjoy the lake views. It's a versatile spot for recreation and relaxation. :beachwithumbrella:
Yes, The Cove at Concord Park has a beach area that is popular for swimming during warmer months. :swimmer:
Concord Park features a playground, making it a family-friendly destination for those with younger children. :child:
Leashed dogs are welcome in Concord Park, making it a great spot for a walk with your pet. :dog:
Visitors have reported seeing Great Blue Herons and groundhogs, indicating a diverse local ecosystem. Keep an eye out for birds and other small animals. :bird:
[^Review]
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within Concord Park. Visitors typically bring their own food for picnics or plan to dine at nearby establishments in Knoxville. :forkandknife:
Yes, Concord Park has grills available for public use, making it a great spot for a barbecue. Bring your own charcoal and grilling tools. :grill:
The Cove offers numerous picnic tables, many with scenic lake views. The area around the pavilion and beach is particularly popular. :picnic_table:
[^Review]
During special events like concerts or festivals, food vendors may be present. It's advisable to check the event details for specific offerings. :foodtruck:
The surrounding Knoxville area offers a wide variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining. Explore options in nearby Farragut or West Knoxville. :restaurant:
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront at The Cove, the marina, and the walking trails offer beautiful scenic views. The golden hour before sunset provides stunning light. :camerawithflash:
Yes, with its lake and natural surroundings, Concord Park is a good spot for birdwatching and wildlife photography, especially near the water. :bird:
[^Review]
Yes, The Cove at Concord Park is a popular location for professional photo sessions, including family portraits and engagement shoots. :couplewithheart:
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hour) offer the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm glow. :sunrise:
Generally, personal photography is allowed. For commercial or professional shoots, it's always a good idea to check with Knox County Parks & Recreation for any specific permit requirements. :memo:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds, especially if your children prefer a more relaxed environment. The park's open spaces also provide plenty of room for kids to run and play. Don't forget sunscreen and water toys for a full day of family fun by the lake. :sunwithface:
Active Adventurers
The paved walking and biking trails offer a great way to get exercise while enjoying the scenic surroundings. Whether you're a runner, cyclist, or just enjoy a brisk walk, the trails cater to various fitness levels. The park's layout encourages exploration and outdoor activity. :running: :bike:
+1Event Enthusiasts
During the holidays, the Holiday Festival of Lights is a must-see, transforming the park into a festive wonderland. These events are great opportunities to experience the community spirit and enjoy unique seasonal attractions. :christmastree: :partypopper:
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Embracing Lakeside Activities
Beyond paddling, the sandy beach area is a major draw for swimming and simply relaxing by the lake. It's a perfect spot for families to cool off during the warmer months. The presence of a marina also adds to the picturesque views, with boats docked and ready for adventure. Whether you're looking for active water sports or a peaceful day by the water, The Cove delivers. :swimmer: :beachwithumbrella:
Community feedback consistently points to the versatility of The Cove. It's not just about the water; it's about the entire lakeside experience. From watching the sunset over the glistening water to enjoying a picnic with a view, the atmosphere is consistently described as serene and enjoyable. :sunset:
+1Community Events and Gatherings
The park also plays a significant role during the holiday season, notably with its Holiday Festival of Lights. This event has been recognized for its charitable contributions, raising funds and collecting goods for local organizations like the Love Kitchen. The community's participation in such events underscores the park's importance as a gathering place for good causes. :gift: :heart:
Beyond organized events, the park's amenities, such as the reserved gazebo and numerous picnic areas, make it a popular choice for private gatherings like baby showers and birthday parties. Reddit discussions and reviews often mention the suitability of these spaces for celebrations, highlighting the park's capacity to host memorable events for various occasions. :birthday: :couplewithheart:
Recreation and Relaxation
The park's paved walking trails are another significant draw, offering a smooth and accessible surface for walking, jogging, or cycling. These trails wind through scenic areas, providing pleasant views of the park and the lake. They are also ideal for dog walkers, making the park a welcoming destination for pet owners. :running: :dog:
When it's time to unwind, the picnic areas and grills are perfect for a relaxed outdoor meal. Coupled with the beautiful lake views and the general tranquility of the park, it provides an ideal setting for a peaceful escape. The combination of active recreation and serene relaxation makes Concord Park a well-rounded destination for all visitors. :picnic_table: :relaxed:
[^Review]
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit