Nature Centers
Bells Bend Outdoor Center
The Metropolitan Board of Parks and Recreation is working to maintain and enhance certain areas of Bells Bend Park for the benefit of wildlife and for environmental interpretation purposes. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) has advised a prescribed burning in selected areas is the best method for achieving these goals. A prescribed burn is managed by certified personnel, and is only scheduled when weather and other conditions are ideal, and safety is always the highest priority.
A prescribed burn is planned for November 10 or November 18 (or as soon thereafter when weather and other conditions are ideal) for a 26-acre field in the interior of Bells Bend Park, under the management of certified TWRA staff. The scheduled time is between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Approvals have been secured from the Nashville Fire Department and the Health Department (Air Pollution Control Division) have been secured.
If you have questions, please contact Bob Parrish at 862-8400.
Located in western Davidson County, this park takes its name from a peaceful arc of the Cumberland River known as Bells Bend. This rural preserve is defined by its agricultural history, its bountiful opportunities for viewing wildlife, and a landscape shaped by the river. This 808 acre pastoral park opened to the public in 2007 and supports habitat for plants, migratory birds and other wildlife. Bells Bend Park offers Nashville residents and visitors access to a unique three-fold experience: cultivating knowledge of the natural world, developing outdoor recreation skills, and understanding cultural impacts upon the land.
Several miles of hiking trails and old farm roads are accessible at the trailhead and the first entrance into the Park. The Nature Center at the second Park entrance off Old Hickory Boulevard.
Hours: Bells Bend Park is open 7 days a week from daylight until dusk. The Bells Bend Outdoor Center is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12 noon - 4pm, Saturdays from 9am - 4pm and by appointment.
- See How Much Electricity the Solar Panels are Generating
- Program Schedule
- Nature Center Floor Plan
- Bells Bend Map
Installing the Solar Panels
Directions:
From I-40 take exit # 204 and go North on Briley Parkway.
Take exit # 24 and turn left onto State Rt. 12. – toward Ashland City
Go over 2 miles and turn left at the stop light onto Old Hickory Blvd.
Go 4 miles, the entrance to Bells Bend Park (trailhead) is on your right. Go to the second Park entrance for the Bells Bend Outdoor Center
Contact Information:
Bells Bend Outdoor Center
4187 Old Hickory Blvd.
Nashville, TN 37218
615-862-4187 or Bells Bend or
LinnAnn Welch, Director