Tennessee’s Hidden Hangout: Pinewood and the Piney River

Source: Pinewood Canoe & Camp

Pinewood, Tennessee comes alive when the dogwoods bloom. The unincorporated community doesn’t show up on the local metereologist’s map, but it attracts thousands of visitors each year starting in late March and early April thanks to its proximity to the Piney River.

Part of the Mississippi River watershed, the Piney River stretches 23 miles and possesses some of the most scenic views in Tennessee.

The most popular public place to access the Piney River is Pinewood Canoe & Camp. Owned by local resident Kathy Clark, the kayak and canoe rental facility is unique because the access and take out areas are on Clark’s property.

“For years you had to be local and have permission from a land owner to be able to access this wonderful river,” Clark says on the company’s website.

Wendy Warrick manages the day-to-day operations at Pinewood Canoe & Camp where she says every year gets busier and busier.

“June is a really busy month and Memorial Day weekend is one of the busiest weekends,” she said. “Now every weekend is like a holiday weekend.”

But if you can squeeze in a visit during the week, including Friday, or any weekend that doesn’t land on a holiday, you’re in for a treat. The Piney River has been captivating floaters at Pinewood Canoe & Camp for 23 years.

Warrick has an idea why.

“It’s crystal clear. You can see the fish swimming at your feet. It’s that aqua blue green turquoise color,” she said.

“When I post pictures, people think that I edit it,” Warrick added, “but no, that’s how it really looks.”

Many people don’t even come for kayaking and canoeing adventures. They purchase a cheap day pass to lay out on the shore and cool off in the water.

Source: Pinewood Canoe & Camp

The water is one thing, but the views are another.

The owner of Pinewood Canoe & Camp, Kathy Clark, has named every bluff and rock cropping on the 7 mile leg of the river have access to, of which there are many. Steamboat Rock stands tall in the middle of the river.

Source: Pinewood Canoe & Camp

Warrick says this is the best spot for kayakers and canoers to swim. And, if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a bald eagle flying overhead as you make your way down the river.

Where to Stay in Pinewood

Less than five miles from Pinewood Canoe & Camp is Piney River Resort, a luxurious RV camping area with tiny home rentals as well. Waterfront RV sites start at $75 per night and include river access, individual fire rings, and a concrete pad for parking your RV. For an extra $10 per night, you can reserve the waterfront pavilion for your personal use!

The lowest cost option are their smaller gravel sites which still include a fire ring as well as basic amenities like sewer and water hook-ups. These start at $45 per night.

If you want to experiment with tiny house living, bring your family to Piney River Resort and rent one of 4 different tiny home models all under 400 square feet: “The Farmhouse,” “Music City,” “Light House,” and “Magnolia.”

Be careful because these tiny homes will make you want to stay inside during your whole stay, but remember why you’re there in the first place…to get in the Piney River!

Home, But Make It Pinewood

For some good home cooking, go to Linita’s Market & Deli. A country store, deli, and catering business, Linita’s is locally owned by the Deitmen family.

Source: Linita’s Market & Deli

Follow Linita’s Market & Deli on Facebook where they share their daily specials. Here is a sneak peek of what can expect to eat at Linita’s:

• Ribeye sandwich with grilled peppers and onions

• Smoked salmon wrap

• Philly cheesesteak

• Catfish dinner with fries, white beans, puppies, slaw, tartar sauce

• Fresh chicken salad sandwich or wrap

• And more

Don’t skip dessert! My personal favorite is their rich, creamy cheesecake which comes in a variety of flavors including blueberry, apple crumble, peach cobbler, and cherry.

When Are You Visiting Pinewood?

Pinewood is a place where you can make new friends or retreat into complete solitude. It’s a place where there’s everything to do and nothing to do. This is a place where you’ll be treated like family, especially if you see as much of the beauty Pinewood and the Piney River has to offer as the locals do.

If you decide to plan a trip our way, reach out to me at gabby@marketingbygabby.com. I’d love to tell you more about why I moved my business and life near this wonderful place!