Scottish Pike River Park

Riverside Retreat with City Views

Located next to the Tennessee River, Scottish Pike River Park spans a modest 2.92 acres in Knoxville, Tennessee. Despite its modest size, it offers good views of downtown Knoxville, the University of Tennessee campus, and the Vols arena just across the water.

The riverbank setting is meant for anyone looking to escape the urban bustle without actually leaving the city. Shade trees dot the landscape, creating little pockets of nature where local wildlife finds refuge. It's a nice spot to take a deep breath, watch the water flow by, and relax - the Tennessee sunsets reflecting off the river can be quite beautiful.

Get Moving or Just Unwind

A paved walking trail meanders around the property in a loop that's about 1/6 of a mile long. Nothing too demanding here - just a pleasant pathway for stretching your legs or taking a quick fitness lap. Beyond the trail, open green spaces invite you to toss a frisbee, have a picnic, or simply lie back and cloud-watch.

For those who prefer their recreation with a fishing rod in hand, the park offers a few spots to cast a line. While the water access points are somewhat limited to several standing areas, local fishing enthusiasts still consider this one of their favorite places to drop a hook in the Tennessee River.

Places to Gather

The park comes equipped with some handy picnic facilities that make outdoor meals a breeze. You'll find a large pavilion with multiple tables, a more intimate shelter with just one table, and a small grill near the main pavilion. These features make Scottish Pike excellent for low-key gatherings - whether it's a family lunch, a small birthday celebration for the kids, or just an afternoon snack in the shade.

Younger visitors will appreciate the playground area with its two slides, but you'll want to keep a close eye on the little ones - the river is nearby with no barriers between the play area and the water. One nice perk? The park rarely gets crowded, so there's usually plenty of space to enjoy.

Good to Know

The parking situation is fairly limited, with just a small lot available. You should also note that there are no restroom facilities on site, so plan your visit accordingly.

Nature adds its own touches with trumpet vines growing along the shoreline, and don't be surprised if you spot a few geese or other riverside creatures during your stay. The park is typically clean and well-maintained, offering a peaceful atmosphere occasionally punctuated by the rumble of trains crossing the nearby bridge.

You can visit Scottish Pike River Park daily from 6AM to 9PM (10PM on Thursdays).