Reelfoot Lake Tourism Council

REELFOOT LAKE NATURAL WILDLIFE AREA

Reelfoot Lake, Tennessee's only large natural lake, is located in the northwest corner of Tennessee 5 miles from the Mississippi River and The Great River Road. 

During the winter of 1811-1812, massive earthquakes violently shook the area causing forest floors to sink and the Mississippi River to run backwards filling the large depression of earth with water creating Reelfoot Lake.  This shallow, stump-filled lake is a natural fish hatchery and a favorite fishing lake for pro and recreational fishermen. 

Located in the Mississippi Flyway, Reelfoot Lake is a premier duck and goose hunting area.  Reelfoot Lake attracts over 150,000 ducks and geese offering superior hunting opportunities. 

Reelfoot Lake features one of the largest populations of American bald eagles outside of Alaska with over 90 resident-nesting pairs and hundreds of migratory eagles. Eagle tours are offered in the winter months, and the Eagle Festival is the first weekend in February with tours and birds of prey programs.

White Pelicans can be seen during the fall months at Reelfoot Lake where they rest and enjoy the weather before continuing their migration south. The Pelican Festival is the fourth weekend in October and offers special tours and programs.

Birding is very popular as over 290 species have been observed throughout the year.

While Reelfoot Lake is a favorite lake for hunting and fishing, visitors also enjoy, camping, kayaking/canoeing, hiking, photography and much more including getting away to rest and relax.

SEE WHAT NATURE MADE