When it comes to charming small towns in Tennessee, Samburg, Tennessee, certainly fits the bill. Located on the shores of Reelfoot Lake, Samburg is both scenically splendiferous and historically rich. In fact, if you want to experience a slice of "old Tennessee," visit Samburg not for only a trip back in time, but also to experience a quiet place surrounded by nature.
Samburg spans just 445 acres, making this a very, very small town. Several farms within our state have more acreage than this town, so you certainly will find the scale to be part of its charm. As of 2020, the population of Samburg was only 210 -- so what you will find is a tight-knit community where the "biggest" draw is the water itself.
The Reelfoot Lake region contains a couple of natural areas that are absolutely beautiful all centered around the water.
The Reelfoot Lake State Park, the Reelfoot State Wildlife Management, and the Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge are all located in the area -- and the town of Samburg has easy access to each one. The lake offers a tranquil place to rest and listen to the cadence of the water, or better yet launch a boat and go for a ride. Samburg is famous for its fishing and hunting, as a matter of fact, bringing in people from all over to enjoy this unique ecosystem.
This region is abundant in wildlife so you never know what kind of creatures you might find within the region. Among some of the most spectacular is the mighty bald eagle which regularly can be found around their nests in the cypress trees.
Between your aquatic adventures, when it comes time to get a bite to eat, there is no better place than the Boat House Restaurant. The menu offers a variety of meals with, as its name suggests, a leaning towards seafood. Perhaps the best part is getting a seat by the window, where you can see the gorgeous lake as you eat.
When it comes to things to do in this little town, it is first and foremost a fishing and hunting town.
So if you want to escape to the wild and be immersed in nature, Samburg is the perfect town for you. If you prefer to just sit along the shore or watch a sunset at Spicer Park, that is a great option too. I personally think taking a kayak out on the lake and exploring the picture-perfect water is the best option to enjoy Samburg, Tennessee.
Can't bring yourself to leave? If you want to extend your stay, make your way to Eagle Nest Resort.
The lodging is rustic and will certainly give you the "camp" feel you would expect in a hunting and fishing town. There are multiple ways to stay; we recommend booking the Water’s Edge Cabins. Not only will you get the full experience in a charming cabin by the lake, but they also offer packages to help you along the way for both hunting and fishing.
Samburg, Tennessee, is famous for being a small town that offers spectacular hunting and fishing. You will find everything you would expect from a tiny town along the water's edge. Like stepping back in time, the town is both charming and rustic but, most of all, makes very good use of the picturesque lake. Make sure you've got all the right fishing gear before you go, and while you are there, relax and take in the beauty of Reelfoot Lake.
Not too far from Samburg, TN is one of the coolest hands-on museums in the state... make sure you check it out!
If you are looking to enjoy the simple life, then make sure you check out more small towns in Tennessee. They all deserve a number one spot, so make sure you take your time to visit each one.
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