A:  That depends.  According to an official memorandum of policy from the Directorate of Civil Works and dated March 10, 1989, metal detectors are allowed under certain conditions.  The use of metal detectors will be allowed on public beaches or other previously disturbed areas that do not contain or would not reasonably be expected to contain archaeological, historical, or paleontological resources.  Nonidentifiable items, such as coins of nominal value ($25.00 or less) do not need to be deposited with the natural resource manager or ranger.  Identifiable items (rings, watches, etc.) or items or greater than nominal value will be deposited with the natural resource manager or ranger.  Digging shall be limited to hand tools that can be used by one hand only.  Hand tools shall be limited to 4 inches wide and 12 inches long.  All trash uncovered must be removed and placed in an approved trash receptacle.  All soil disturbed or displaced shall be returned to its original state.  In addition, we would ask that any such approved use of metal detectors take place during times when it will not interfere with the public’s recreational use of an area, i.e. not on busy weekends at beaches and recreation areas.

A:  Rules and Regulations governing the use of Corps of Engineers water resource projects are contained in Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations. State and Local Laws also apply on all portions of the project. A copy of Title 36 CFR is available at the Old Hickory Lake Resource Manager’s Office. An on-line version is also available at the Government Printing Office’s Website.

A:  Construction of the dam started in 1952. The dam became operational in 1957.

A:  Old Hickory Lake is 22,500 acres of water at normal pool, 9,134 acres of fee property and 3,651 acres of easement.

A:  Normal pool is 445 above sea level.

A:  No. Camping is not allowed on any island on Old Hickory Lake.

A:  Records are kept at the Old Hickory Lake Resource Manager’s Office. Anglers applying for a lake record fish should request an application, have the fish weighed on a certified scale and have two witnesses present. Contact the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency to verify the species and weight of the fish. Click here to see the Old Hickory Lake record fish.

A:  Generally, you must own land directly adjoining public property on Old Hickory Lake. The land must qualify for a residential building permit, be in an area open for private boat docks, and have a minimum of 65 feet of water frontage. The Resource Manager must approve all requests for private docks.

A:  Contact the Resource Manager's office and a Ranger will assist you in determining if the property is eligible for a dock.

A:  No. If you have a tree that is dead or is a hazard, contact the Resource Manager's office and a Ranger will determine if the tree can be removed.

A:  In spite of increasing residential development of private property adjoining Old Hickory Lake and increasing recreational demand, the total amount of public land and water remains unchanged. Balanced, sound management is essential to ensure continuing quality use of the lake for present and future enjoyment by the general public.

A:  Reservations for campsites may be made up to 180 days in advance and reservations for picnic shelters may be made 360 days in advance by calling toll free 1-877-444-6777 or over the Internet at www.Recreation.gov. Reservations for the Rockland shelters are made at the Old Hickory Lake Resource Manager's office by calling (615) 822-4846 or (615) 847-2395.

A:  Yes. Old Hickory Lake three trails that offer three different recreational opportunities. The Old Hickory Nature Trail is part of the National Trails System. This trail is located near the south side of Old Hickory Dam in the Left Bank Recreation Area, Old Hickory, TN.  The 8.2 mile Shutes Branch Mountain Bike Trail located off Needmore Road, Old Hickory, TN offers bikers a single track trail that is great for all skill levels. The Old Hickory Archery Range located in the Right Bank Recreation Area (accessible from Rockland Recreation Area) offers a a sighting-in area and a 28 target course.

A:  Cages Bend and Cedar Creek usually open in early April and close in mid October.

A:  No. Title 36 Rules and Regulations prohibits occupancy of vessels for full or part time residence.

A:  Special Event Permits are required for many activities that are likely to impact normal use of a particular area: Contact the Resource Manager's Office for more information.

A: Yes. Fish attractors impact the lake. Therefore a permit is required. Contact the Resource Manager's Office for more information.

A: No. Title 36 Rules and Regulations prohibits the operation or parking of vehicles off authorized roadways.