While it's the fifth-largest city in Tennessee, Clarksville has a relaxed and uncrowded feel compared to other cities in the state. Visitors and locals alike embrace the convenience of amenities around, but it is indeed the vast park system that allows people to still easily commune with nature to get away from it all.

This historic city is ideally located next to the expansive Cumberland River and boasts numerous natural areas that feature caves, trails, dog parks, fishing spots, and much more. These amenities can all be found locally in the following parks around Clarksville, TN.

Liberty Park & Clarksville Marina

The beauty of Liberty Park & Clarksville Marina is an all-in-one community area, where nature melds seamlessly into the cityscapes along the Cumberland River. Here, residents come out to enjoy the easy 1.8-mile walking trail and access the river and 10-acre fishing pond replete with a BBQ grill, seating, and picnic tables onsite. This general-use park boasts four covered pavilions, a community-built playground, and several multi-purpose sport fields.

Another highlight of Liberty Park is the presence of the Clarksville Marina right next door, where visitors can fish off the dock, launch their own boat from the 4-lane ramp into the Cumberland, or rent one from Freedom Point Rental. In addition to being the home of King's Run Bark Park—one of two in the city—Liberty Park invites guests to see live shows and exhibits at the outdoor Wilma Rudolph Event Center.

Dunbar Cave State Park

Considered a sacred place that was thought to be a portal into the Underworld by early Mississippians, Dunbar Cave State Park is a prehistoric site, with Native American cave art dating back to the 14th century. These drawings are considered protected under state park regulations. In more current times, the cave has been utilized as a music hall and community center for various events.

Dunbar Cave sits amid a 144-acre nature preserve and is the 280th largest complex of caves in the world. Stretching just over eight miles inward, the cave features springs, sinkholes, and freshwater wildlife that are unusual to see in populated areas. Once done touring the cave, stop by the park's gift shop for memorabilia, or hike one of the many trails across the restored wetlands and prairies.

Billy Dunlop Park

Those who imagine walking along groomed trails next to a flowing river in the wooded landscapes and crossing a rustic bridge or two can have that experience at Billy Dunlop Park. Across the park's 30-acre span, there is a basketball court and play area with an exciting playground. There's also a covered pavilion near the bathrooms that features a stage and fireplace, which is popular for parties and reunions.

The park's convenient riverfront access point to the Cumberland is a highlight for canoe and kayak enthusiasts. The river is an excellent place for floating downstream, but it's wise to park at the stopping point to prevent a long haul back to the launching zone. Kids love the rope swing into the water while fisherman love dipping their lines in for a big catch from the shoreline.

Heritage Park Sports Complex

Local youth and adult sports enthusiasts along with serious players are proud to call Heritage Park Sports Complex their 'go-to' choice for local league, state, and national practices and tournaments. And it should come as no surprise, because the complex boasts four softball fields, eight soccer fields, two basketball courts, and four fields dedicated to baseball. There are also routine clinics and camps scheduled during the year. The public is welcome to use the Heritage Park practice fields for their own private and multipurpose uses.

Within the premises is a hot spot for those who love to fly on wheels at the skate park, where deep pools, cement ramps, and short and long pipe rails await. Kids can use the splash pad zone on warm days, so visitors should bring a towel. Dogs are welcome and can run and play in the Heritage Park Bark Park, where there are shady spots, drinking fountains, waste stations, and tons of grassy space to bark in the park.

McGregor Park & Cumberland Riverwalk

Bike, boat, bridge walk, bounce into the waters, and do much more at McGregor Park & Cumberland Riverwalk. The interactive automated bike station at the riverwalk lets visitors park a personal ride or rent one easily, and those two wheels make getting around the park a breeze! Of course, jogging or strolling along the Cumberland Riverwalk is sure to provide spectacular waterfront views, along with wildlife sightings during quieter hours.

Those who want to take a lunch are treated to picnic and playground areas adjacent to the boat launch where the waters of the Cumberland await. Don't miss the 12 graphic panels throughout the park that represent the history and development of the river itself and its role in Clarksville's development. For a special experience, visit the park as the holiday season approaches for a unique lighting experience. Vendors tend to frequent the scene on weekends, so bring a bit of cash along with that list of gifting items.

Rotary Park

Visiting Rotary Park is a treat that should not be overlooked. This 112-acre nature park offers conveniences such as an amphitheater, trails, and a playground. Five miles of trails for hiking and biking, 25 acres of free open space, and multiple covered pavilions, picnic tables, and BBQ grills make Rotary Park an excellent place for large gatherings.

Amenities within Rotary Park include fully equipped restroom facilities, multi-stationed exercise equipment, an 18-hole Frisbee disk golf course, and a dedicated area for horseshoe players. Thanks to Girl Scout Troop 2378, there is an ongoing scavenger hunt scene with three treks to find treasures within the creek, playground, and trail searches. Whether hosting a group or just wanting to get away from modern distractions, Rotary Park has something for everyone.

Commune With Nature in a Clarksville

From new construction homes to rentals in the area and more, those looking to move to Clarksville will find that Clarksville, TN has a bit of everything one could seek amid cityscapes melded with a natural environment. A strong sense of community is present here, and it is that connection that has fueled the presence of so many parks and natural respites in the area.

If Clarksville is your top choice for a new home, contact The Ashton Real Estate Group of RE/MAX Advantage with Nashville's MLS at (615) 603-3602 to speak to a Clarksville real estate agent and get started finding your Clarksville dream home.