Skip to main content
Lock 4 Park - The Point park in Gallatin, TN
Photo: Kevin
View of Lock 4 Park - The Point in Gallatin, TN
Photo: Jessica Stadelbauer
View of Lock 4 Park - The Point in Gallatin, TN
Photo: Amanda Callaghan

Lock 4 Park - The Point

4.7(494 reviews)FreePark
🕑 2-4 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers and preschoolers enjoy the playground equipment and watching boats at the boat ramp, while older elementary kids love fishing from the pier and exploring the walking paths along the river.

About

Lock 4 Park - The Point offers families a perfect riverside escape along the scenic Cumberland River. With a well-equipped playground, fishing pier, walking paths, and spacious picnic areas, this park combines outdoor recreation with peaceful natural beauty, making it ideal for everything from active play to leisurely family afternoons by the water.

Highlights

  • Fishing pier extending into the Cumberland River with opportunities to catch multiple fish species
  • Modern playground equipment suitable for various age groups
  • Scenic walking paths offering river views and wildlife watching opportunities
  • Boat ramp area where kids can watch boats launch and return
  • Covered picnic pavilions perfect for birthday parties or family gatherings

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive early (right when it opens at 6 AM) on weekends to secure the best picnic spots with river views before boating enthusiasts fill the parking area
  2. 2.Bring fishing gear and valid Tennessee fishing licenses for adults,the pier is excellent for catching catfish, bass, and crappie with kids
  3. 3.Pack plenty of water and snacks as there are no food vendors on-site, and the picnic pavilions provide welcome shade during hot summer days
  4. 4.Wear sunscreen and bug spray, especially near the water's edge during dawn and dusk hours
  5. 5.The walking paths are stroller-friendly and perfect for young children learning to ride bikes

Best Time to Visit

Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) for a quieter experience with less boat traffic and parking competition. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most comfortable temperatures for playground time and walking, plus beautiful foliage along the riverbank.

What to Know

The park is free to visit with ample parking available near both the playground and boat ramp areas. There are no concessions on-site, so pack your own food and drinks for picnicking.

Seasonal Notes

The park is open year-round 6 AM-5 PM daily. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather, while summer can be quite hot with limited shade on the playground. Winter visits are possible but the playground equipment may be cold, and fishing tends to slow down during colder months.

Nearby Eats

Triple Creek Cafe (about 3 miles away) offers Southern comfort food with kid-friendly options like chicken tenders and mac and cheese. For pizza and a casual atmosphere, try Donatos Pizza on Nashville Pike, which is family-friendly with quick service perfect for hungry kids after outdoor play.

More Activities Near Gallatin

Park

Station Camp Greenway

Free

Station Camp Greenway offers families a safe, scenic paved trail system perfect for introducing young kids to biking, taking leisurely stroller walks, or burning off energy on scooters and skates. The multi-use paths wind through Gallatin's neighborhoods and green spaces, providing a peaceful outdoor experience that's accessible for all ages and abilities.

Park

Bledsoe Creek State Park

4.7Free

Bledsoe Creek State Park is a family-friendly oasis on Old Hickory Lake where kids can swim at the beach, explore nature trails, and play on the playground while parents enjoy stunning lake views. With both day-use and camping options, it's perfect for anything from a few hours of outdoor fun to a full weekend getaway just 30 minutes northeast of Nashville.

Park

Triple Creek Park Youth Football Fields

4.5Free

Triple Creek Park is Gallatin's go-to destination for active family fun, offering something for every age with its combination of modern playgrounds, refreshing splash pad, and scenic walking trails. The well-maintained facilities and variety of activities make it perfect for everything from quick afternoon visits to full-day family outings with picnic lunches under the pavilions.

Playground

Lindsey's Rainbow

Free

Lindsey's Rainbow at Crockett Park is a beautifully designed inclusive playground where children of all abilities can play together. This thoughtfully planned space features wheelchair-accessible ramps, sensory play elements, and adaptive swings that ensure every child can join in the fun, making it a welcoming destination for families with children of varying abilities.