The Harpeth River, historic sites, and recurring events give Kingston Springs several focal points for trip planning. Several river access points are used for fishing and float trips. Interstate 40 also runs through Kingston Springs. Which themes you focus on depends on whether you’re interested in river activities, local history, or a specific event date.
River Access and Trails
Conditions at individual river access points may vary. If you’re planning to use a particular access point for a float trip or fishing, check its access conditions before your trip. Harpeth River State Park manages nine river access points along 40 river miles. These figures apply to the park as a whole, not just Kingston Springs; they therefore describe a larger stretch of river than the access points in town.
The Narrows of the Harpeth offers upstream and downstream access. Options described there include the five-mile Bell’s Bend float route and a unique quarter-mile portage. The river route and portage are separate details to consider when planning a trip. Water levels and safety conditions can affect paddling; take them into account before planning a float trip.
Those interested in hiking trails will find three trails starting from a shared trailhead near the entrance to The Narrows of the Harpeth park. So hikes start in the same place, even though there are several trails to choose from. Check trail conditions on site before setting out.
Historical Themes
The Kingston Springs Hotel and Buildings are associated with the areas of significance of health and medicine, as well as entertainment and recreation. Their periods of significance are 1850–1874 and 1875–1899. These themes connect the town’s history to both medical and health-related aspects and leisure and entertainment.
The Kingston Springs and the 12th USCT memorial is located near the canoe and kayak launch across from L.L. Burns Park in Kingston Springs. Its location links the memorial with a specific landmark on the river. Because conditions at the launch may change, check them before a paddling trip.
Mound Bottom State Archaeological Area is located in Cheatham County, Tennessee. It is an ancient Native American mound center from the Mississippian period of regional prehistory, approximately 1000 to 1350 CE. Access is prohibited without permission from Harpeth River State Park or the Tennessee Division of Archaeology. Before planning a visit, check again with one of these organizations about permission.
Market and Events
The Kingston Springs Farmers and Artisans Market offers fresh local produce and handmade goods. The market is seasonal; dates may change. This makes it a different reason to visit than the annual events held at L.L. Burns Park.
The Fishing Rodeo takes place every year in early June at L.L. Burns Park as part of TWRA Free Fishing Weekend. Dates and schedules may vary. Check current details before planning your visit around it.
Art in the Park is also an annual event at L.L. Burns Park. More than 70 arts and crafts vendors take part. While the Fishing Rodeo is timed to coincide with Free Fishing Weekend, Art in the Park focuses on arts and crafts. Programming and event dates may vary.
Explore more destinations: Pleasant View.
Return to the main travel overview: Cheatham County.
