Cages Bend
4.49322 reviews1125 BENDERS FERRY ROAD
Cages Bend
$30.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Peak season nightly rates for Standard Electric sites range from $30 to $35. Discounts may apply for holders of senior passes.
About this campground
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.
Campsite details
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.
Sites 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.'
Sites 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 CampsitesSite #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.
Best CampsitesWaterfront campsites such as site #15, #28, and #12 are highly rated for views and access to the lake.
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 are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes waterfront, terraced, and elevated sites. Some sites feature patios and picnic areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 1 through October 30 annually. Reservations for individual sites are released on a rolling 6-month basis.
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.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Laundry Facilities
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.
Fishing
Fishing 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.'Boating
Boating 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 viewing
The 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
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular water sports at Cages Bend.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire pits. Firewood must be locally sourced.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential dangers include narrow roads for large RVs, high grass on campsites, debris on shorelines, and flooding during heavy rains.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are in Gallatin, TN, approximately 5 miles away, including hospitals, police stations, and fire stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 to October 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are provided but were reportedly not emptied frequently enough during some users' stays. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Old Hickory Lake, with direct access via boat ramps and fishing docks.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include high grass, aging facilities, debris on lake shores, and narrow access roads.
HostHosts are generally described as friendly, with noted exceptions during disputes over policies.
Campground Map
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.
Camper Reviews
4.5
322 reviews
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 322 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...
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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 322 reviewsPro 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 322 reviewsSeasonal 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 322 reviewsCamper 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....
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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...
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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 322 reviewsPet-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 322 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025