It is olympic-sized and there is a kiddie pool equipped with spray showers. A modern bathhouse serves the area and houses a convenient concession stand. The pool is often used by nearby schools for special aquacades. It is open from early summer through Labor Day and lifeguards are on duty during swimming hours. There is no park fee for fishing but a valid temporary or annual Tennessee fishing license is necessary for persons over 16.
Rowboats are available for rent on the lake but no personally owned boats or motors are permitted.
There are 112 picnic tables and grills to serve the Cove Lake day-user. Most sites are located adjacent to the lake. Six large picnic pavilions are provided for family reunions and other large group use. Playgrounds, playfields, restrooms and water are conveniently located to serve picnickers. In addition to the lake and pool facilities, Cove Lake visitors enjoy badminton, shuffleboard, horseshoes, field games, volleyball, playgrounds, ping-pong, bicycle rental, tennis and many other activities.