Top 7 Lakes in Shelby County
Best lakes in Shelby County offer diverse natural landscapes for outdoor activities. The region features large urban parks with reservoirs and state parks with serene lakes. These areas provide opportunities for hiking, cycling, and water-based recreation. Shelby County's lakes are integrated into a landscape that includes woodlands and open fields.
Best lakes in Shelby County
- The most popular lakes is Shelby Farms Park, an other natural area that features hiking trails through woodlands, lakes, and open fields. It is one of the largest urban parks in the US, spanning over 4,500 acres.
- Another must-see spot is Hyde Lake, a lake located within Shelby Farms Park. A completely paved path circles the water, popular with runners, walkers, and cyclists.
- Visitors also love Pioneer Springs Trail, a trail that begins next to Poplar Tree Lake in Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park. This path offers solitude as it leads through the forest.
- Shelby County is known for fishing, water sports, and hiking. The area provides a variety of lakes to explore, from large reservoirs to smaller, secluded bodies of water.
- The lakes in Shelby County are appreciated by the komoot community, with 5 upvotes and 3 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Shelby Farms Park
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Hyde Lake
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Pioneer Springs Trail
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Tour de Wolf Trail Loop
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Other adventures in Shelby County
Tips from the Community
This section of path makes up part of the loop portion of the Tour de Wolf Trail. The Tour de Wolf Trail is one of the most popular paths within the park and covers 6 miles total. The trail can be accessed from a couple different parking areas and leads to this section of trail, which loops around a few hidden ponds on paths open to bikes, runners, and hikers.
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The Pioneer Springs Trail is one of the most popular paths in Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park. The trail begins right next to Poplar Tree Lake, immediately dives into the forest, and then disappears into the trees following blue blazes on the trees the entire time. This trail offers a lot of solitude and deteriorates the further into the woods you travel.
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Hyde Lake is a beautiful reservoir right in the middle of Shelby Farms Park. There is a completely paved path that circles around the water that is popular amongst runners, walkers, and cyclists, and there is a separate commuter trail that also offers access to the loop trail. There are multiple parking areas around the lake that offer access to the paved trail.
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Shelby Farms Park, in the east of Memphis, is one of the largest urban parks in the US and has a size of over 4,500 acres. In the area you will find hiking trails leading through a mix of landscapes, including woodlands, lakes, and open fields. Furthermore, it is a great destination for picnicking and spending time with the family.
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A much-loved part of Shelby Farms Park, Hyde Lake is perfect for a leisurely and scenic hike in Memphis.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most scenic lakes in Shelby County?
For picturesque views, Hyde Lake within Shelby Farms Park is highly regarded, featuring islands and diverse trails. Spring Lake in Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park is also known for its stunning blue waters and reflections of towering trees, making it ideal for swimming or paddling.
Are there family-friendly lakes in Shelby County?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Shelby Farms Park, which includes Hyde Lake and Lake Issaqueena, is one of the largest urban parks in the US and offers picnicking, playgrounds, and diverse landscapes. Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park, home to Poplar Tree Lake and Spring Lake, also provides amenities like cabins, picnic grills, and boat/kayak rentals suitable for family outings.
Which lakes offer good opportunities for swimming?
Lake Issaqueena in Shelby Farms Park features a sandy beach and designated swimming areas. Spring Lake in Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park is also excellent for swimming due to its clear, blue waters. Horseshoe Lake is another popular destination with calm, clear waters considered safe and enjoyable for all ages.
Where can I find easy hiking or walking trails around the lakes?
A completely paved path circles Hyde Lake in Shelby Farms Park, popular with runners, walkers, and cyclists. Shelby Farms Park itself offers numerous trails through woodlands, lakes, and open fields. For more options, you can explore various hiking routes in the region, such as the easy Wolf River Greenway, by visiting the Hiking in Shelby County guide.
Are there accessible trails around Shelby County lakes?
Yes, Hyde Lake in Shelby Farms Park features a paved path that is wheelchair accessible, providing easy access for all visitors to enjoy the lake's surroundings.
What lakes are best for fishing?
Poplar Tree Lake in Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park is known for its bass fishing, offering an active experience despite the bass often being smaller. Eagle Lake is popular for its abundant catfish population, and Beaver Lake also provides fishing opportunities. McKellar Lake and Horseshoe Lake are also favored spots for fishing among locals.
Can I go kayaking or paddleboarding on these lakes?
Yes, several lakes are suitable for kayaking and paddleboarding. Spring Lake in Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park offers boat and kayak rentals. Many of the calmer lakes, such as Hyde Lake and Horseshoe Lake, are also popular for paddling activities.
Are there options for water sports like wakeboarding or jet skiing?
McKellar Lake, connected to the Mississippi River, is a favored spot among locals specifically for water sports, including wakeboarding and jet skiing. Horseshoe Lake is also popular for water sports due to its calm waters.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these lakes besides hiking?
Beyond hiking, you can enjoy cycling and mountain biking. The region offers various cycling routes, including the Mississippi River Trail, and mountain biking trails like the Tour de Wolf Trail. For detailed routes and guides, check out the Cycling in Shelby County and MTB Trails in Shelby County guides.
Are there picnic areas available at the lakes?
Yes, Shelby Farms Park, which encompasses Hyde Lake and Lake Issaqueena, is an excellent destination for picnicking and spending time with the family. Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park, home to Poplar Tree Lake and Spring Lake, also provides picnic grills for visitors.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in Shelby County?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural landscapes, from large urban parks with reservoirs to serene state park lakes. The opportunities for various outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, fishing, and water sports are highly valued. The community has shared 3 photos and given 5 upvotes across the highlights, indicating a positive experience with the area's natural beauty and recreational offerings.
Are there loop trails around any of the lakes?
Yes, Hyde Lake in Shelby Farms Park has a completely paved loop path. Additionally, the Tour de Wolf Trail Loop, which covers 6 miles, includes sections that loop around hidden ponds within Shelby Farms Park, accessible to bikes, runners, and hikers.
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