Tennessee State & National Parks + Forests

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State Parks

Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park – a 19-acre urban park in Nashville, Tennessee, featuring a 1:10 scale replica of the state Capitol, a 200-foot granite map of Tennessee, and notable monuments and fountains. It offers visitors a chance to explore Tennessee’s history through exhibits and sculptures.
Big Cypress Tree State Park – located in western Tennessee, is known for its impressive bald cypress tree that stands as one of the largest and oldest in the region. The park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities to observe the diverse wildlife and scenic beauty of the surrounding area.
Big Hill Pond State Park – situated in southwestern Tennessee, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers various recreational activities, including hiking, biking, camping, and fishing. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, such as cypress swamps, upland forests, and sparkling lakes, while enjoying the peaceful ambiance of nature.
Big Ridge State Park – nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of northeastern Tennessee, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and abundant recreational opportunities. The park features scenic hiking trails, fishing and boating opportunities on Norris Lake, and camping facilities. Visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the park while taking in stunning mountain views.
Bledsoe Creek State Park – located near Gallatin, Tennessee, offers a tranquil retreat along the shores of Old Hickory Lake. The park provides opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and camping. Visitors can explore the park’s lush forests, spot wildlife, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake.
Booker T. Washington State Park – situated in the rolling hills of northeastern Tennessee, is named after the prominent African American educator and author. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, fishing, and camping. Visitors can also learn about Booker T. Washington’s legacy through interpretive exhibits and educational programs.
Burgess Falls State Park – located near Sparta, Tennessee, is renowned for its stunning waterfalls and scenic trails. The park features a series of cascading waterfalls, including the impressive 130-foot Burgess Falls. Visitors can hike along the park’s well-maintained trails, enjoy picnicking, and experience the natural beauty of the falls and surrounding wilderness.
Cedars of Lebanon State Park – located in Wilson County, Tennessee, is known for its unique cedar forests that resemble the biblical cedars of Lebanon. The park offers visitors opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and camping amidst the serene surroundings of these ancient trees. It also features a nature center where visitors can learn about the diverse plant and animal species that inhabit the park.
Chickasaw State Park – nestled in western Tennessee, is a recreational haven encompassing approximately 1,400 acres. The park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and horseback riding. Visitors can explore the park’s scenic trails, enjoy a swim in Lake Placid, or relax in the peaceful atmosphere of the campground and picnic areas.
Cordell Hull Birthplace State Park – located in Byrdstown, Tennessee, is dedicated to preserving the birthplace and legacy of Cordell Hull, the renowned U.S. Secretary of State and Nobel Peace Prize laureate. The park features a historic log cabin, a museum, and interpretive exhibits that provide insights into Hull’s life and contributions. Visitors can explore the grounds, picnic, and learn about this influential figure in American history.
Cove Lake State Park – situated in Campbell County, Tennessee, is a picturesque park surrounding Cove Lake. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking. Visitors can hike along the scenic trails, enjoy picnicking with lake views, or take advantage of the campground facilities for a peaceful outdoor getaway.
Cumberland Mountain State Park – nestled in the Cumberland Plateau, is a beautiful park encompassing over 1,700 acres. The park offers diverse outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, golfing, and camping. Visitors can explore the park’s extensive trail system, relax by the lake, or visit the historic homestead museum to learn about the area’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Cummins Falls State Park – located in Jackson County, Tennessee, is home to one of the most stunning waterfalls in the state. The park features a 75-foot cascading waterfall, scenic hiking trails, and swimming holes. Visitors can hike through the gorge, enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear waters, or simply marvel at the natural beauty of the falls and surrounding landscapes.
David Crockett State Park – situated near Lawrenceburg, Tennessee, pays homage to the legendary frontiersman and politician, David Crockett. The park offers a wide range of recreational activities, including camping, hiking, fishing, and boating. Visitors can explore the park’s trails, visit the replica of Crockett’s original cabin, or enjoy a picnic in the scenic surroundings.
David Crockett Birthplace State Park – located in Greene County, Tennessee, is dedicated to preserving the birthplace and early life of David Crockett. The park features a replica of the cabin where Crockett was born, as well as a museum and interpretive exhibits. Visitors can explore the park’s historic buildings, learn about Crockett’s life and times, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing.
Dunbar Cave State Park – situated in Clarksville, Tennessee, is centered around the remarkable Dunbar Cave. The park offers guided cave tours, where visitors can witness the stunning underground formations and learn about the cave’s unique geology and history. Above ground, the park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a lake, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
Edgar Evins State Park – located on the shores of Center Hill Lake in DeKalb County, Tennessee, is a tranquil retreat for nature lovers. The park offers camping facilities, fishing opportunities, and scenic hiking trails that wind through the lush forested landscapes. Visitors can enjoy boating and swimming in the lake, spot wildlife, or simply relax and take in the picturesque beauty of the area.
Fall Creek Falls State Park -situated in the eastern part of Tennessee, is renowned for its breathtaking waterfalls and stunning natural beauty. The park is home to Fall Creek Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern United States. With over 26,000 acres of pristine wilderness, the park offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and golfing. Visitors can explore the numerous cascading waterfalls, swim in the pools below, and marvel at the scenic vistas.
Fort Loudoun State Historic Park – located in Vonore, Tennessee, preserves the history and ruins of Fort Loudoun, which was a British colonial fort built during the French and Indian War. The park features reconstructed buildings, interpretive exhibits, and guided tours that offer insights into the fort’s history and its significance in the region. Visitors can explore the grounds, enjoy picnicking, and learn about the colonial-era conflicts that shaped the area.
Fort Pillow State Park – situated on the Mississippi River in Lauderdale County, Tennessee, is named after the historic Civil War battle that took place on its grounds. The park offers opportunities for camping, fishing, and hiking, as well as a chance to explore the Civil War fortifications and learn about the battle’s history. Visitors can also enjoy birdwatching, as the park is a popular spot for observing migratory birds.
Frozen Head State Park – located in Morgan and Roane Counties, Tennessee, is known for its rugged mountain landscapes and diverse ecosystems. The park offers over 50 miles of trails that lead to stunning vistas, waterfalls, and the iconic summit of Frozen Head Mountain. Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts can explore the park’s scenic beauty, go wildlife spotting, and enjoy camping in the peaceful wilderness.
Harpeth River State Park – situated near Nashville, Tennessee, is a recreational paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The park encompasses a 40-mile stretch of the Harpeth River and offers opportunities for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and hiking. Visitors can explore the river’s limestone bluffs, paddle through peaceful waters, or hike along the park’s trails to discover hidden waterfalls and historic sites.
Harrison Bay State Park – located in Hamilton County, Tennessee, is nestled along the shores of Chickamauga Lake. The park offers a wide range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, and camping. Visitors can enjoy the lake’s sandy beaches, go birdwatching in the surrounding wetlands, or explore the park’s hiking trails and wildlife observation areas.
Henry Horton State Park – situated in Marshall County, Tennessee, offers a scenic and peaceful setting for outdoor activities. The park features an 18-hole golf course, hiking trails, fishing ponds, and camping facilities. Visitors can explore the park’s natural beauty, enjoy a round of golf, or relax in the tranquil environment surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests.
Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park – located in southeastern Tennessee, showcases the beauty of the Hiwassee and Ocoee Rivers. The park offers opportunities for whitewater rafting, kayaking, fishing, and scenic river floats. Visitors can experience the exhilaration of navigating the rapids, enjoy fishing in the pristine waters, or simply take in the stunning river views and surrounding mountain landscapes.
Indian Mountain State Park – located in Campbell County, Tennessee, offers a serene and secluded environment for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is known for its beautiful views of the Cumberland Mountains and provides opportunities for camping, hiking, and wildlife observation. Visitors can explore the park’s trails, enjoy picnicking in the peaceful surroundings, or immerse themselves in nature through various recreational activities.
Johnsonville State Historic Park – situated in Humphreys County, Tennessee, preserves the remnants of the historic Civil War site known as Johnsonville. The park features interpretive exhibits, guided tours, and reconstructed earthworks that offer insights into the role the site played during the war. Visitors can explore the grounds, learn about the history of the area, and gain a deeper understanding of the Civil War era.
Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail State Park – stretching across 11 Tennessee counties, is a scenic wilderness trail that spans over 300 miles. The park offers a unique hiking experience through diverse landscapes, including lush forests, rocky gorges, and stunning overlooks. Visitors can enjoy day hikes or embark on multi-day backpacking adventures while immersing themselves in the natural beauty and rugged terrain of the Cumberland Plateau.
Long Hunter State Park – located near Hermitage, Tennessee, is a popular destination for outdoor recreation. The park is situated along the shorelines of J. Percy Priest Lake and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and camping. Visitors can explore the park’s extensive trail system, relax on the sandy beaches, or enjoy a picnic while surrounded by the scenic beauty of the lake and surrounding woodlands.
Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park – situated in Shelby County, Tennessee, is a nature lover’s paradise. The park is characterized by its expansive forests, meandering rivers, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and camping. The park also features nature programs and interpretive exhibits, allowing visitors to learn about the unique ecosystems and natural history of the area.
Montgomery Bell State Park – located in Dickson County, Tennessee, is a picturesque park known for its rolling hills, scenic lakes, and historic structures. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, golfing, and camping. Visitors can explore the park’s extensive trail system, relax by the lakes, or visit the preserved Montgomery Bell Tunnel and other historic sites within the park.
Mousetail Landing State Park – situated along the Tennessee River in Perry County, Tennessee, is a tranquil retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers opportunities for camping, boating, fishing, and hiking. Visitors can explore the park’s scenic trails, enjoy picnicking with river views, or embark on a canoeing or kayaking adventure along the picturesque waterways.
Natchez Trace State Park – spanning across Henderson, Carroll, and Benton Counties in Tennessee, is a vast recreational area offering a wide range of outdoor activities. The park features four different lakes, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, horseback riding, camping, and birdwatching while taking in the natural beauty of the park’s woodlands and waterways.
Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park – located in Benton County, Tennessee, offers a mix of natural beauty and historical significance. The park is named after Confederate General Nathan Bedford Forrest and encompasses Kentucky Lake. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, camping, and hiking within the park’s scenic surroundings. The park also features a museum and interpretive exhibits that shed light on the life and legacy of General Forrest.
Norris Dam State Park – situated in Anderson County, Tennessee, is a popular destination for outdoor recreation and water sports. The park is located near Norris Dam, which was the first major project of the Tennessee Valley Authority. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and camping on the shores of Norris Lake. The park also offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area.
Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park – located in Coffee County, Tennessee, is home to a prehistoric Native American structure known as the Old Stone Fort. The park offers visitors a chance to explore the ancient ruins, as well as hike along the trails that wind through the park’s woodlands and alongside the Duck River. With its rich archaeological significance and beautiful natural surroundings, Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park provides a unique and educational experience for visitors.
Panther Creek State Park – situated in Morristown, Tennessee, offers a wide range of recreational activities for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is centered around Cherokee Lake and provides opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and camping. Visitors can explore the park’s numerous hiking trails, play on the sandy beach, or enjoy a picnic with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Paris Landing State Park – located on the western shore of Kentucky Lake in Henry County, Tennessee, is a popular destination for outdoor recreation and family-friendly activities. The park offers opportunities for boating, fishing, camping, and golfing. Visitors can relax on the sandy beach, explore the park’s trails, or enjoy birdwatching in the diverse habitats surrounding the lake.
Pickett CCC Memorial State Park – situated on the Cumberland Plateau in Pickett County, Tennessee, commemorates the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp that was once located there. The park features rustic cabins, hiking trails, and a scenic lake. Visitors can explore the park’s natural beauty, learn about the history of the CCC, and enjoy recreational activities such as camping, fishing, and wildlife observation.
Pickwick Landing State Park – located on the banks of the Tennessee River in Hardin County, Tennessee, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, golfing, and camping. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, relax on the sandy beach, or take in the scenic views of the river and surrounding landscapes.
Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park – situated in Madison County, Tennessee, is home to a complex of Native American mounds dating back thousands of years. The park offers visitors a chance to explore the ancient mounds, visit the museum and interpretive center, and hike along the nature trails. It provides insights into the cultural heritage and history of the Native American civilizations that once thrived in the region.
Port Royal State Park – located in Montgomery County, Tennessee, is known for its rich history as a 19th-century river port and early settlement. The park features the remains of the historic town of Port Royal, including a section of the original roadbed of the Great Western Turnpike. Visitors can explore the park’s archaeological sites, hike along the trails, and learn about the area’s past through interpretive exhibits and guided tours.
Radnor Lake State Park & Natural Area – nestled in the hills of Nashville, Tennessee, offers a peaceful retreat and a haven for wildlife. The park features a picturesque lake, surrounded by lush forests and hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and tranquil walks through the natural area. It is a popular spot for nature lovers and provides an escape from the bustling city life of Nashville.
Red Clay State Park – located in Bradley County, Tennessee, holds significant historical and cultural importance. It preserves the site of the last Eastern Cherokee Council meetings before the tribe’s removal along the Trail of Tears. The park features a museum, interpretive exhibits, and reconstructed Native American structures. Visitors can learn about the history and heritage of the Cherokee people, explore the park’s trails, and enjoy picnicking in the peaceful surroundings.
Reelfoot Lake State Park – situated in the northwest corner of Tennessee, is known for its unique natural features and abundant wildlife. The park is centered around Reelfoot Lake, which was formed by a series of earthquakes in the early 1800s. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and birdwatching, as the lake is home to a diverse array of bird species. The park’s boardwalks and trails offer opportunities for scenic walks and wildlife observation.
Roan Mountain State Park – located in Carter County, Tennessee, is nestled in the majestic Roan Highlands, part of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. The park offers stunning panoramic views, diverse ecosystems, and a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can hike along the famous Appalachian Trail, explore the park’s trails, go camping, or picnic in the picturesque surroundings. The park is particularly known for its blooming rhododendrons and vibrant fall foliage.
Rock Island State Park – situated on the headwaters of the Caney Fork River in Warren and White Counties, Tennessee, is a haven for water enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park boasts cascading waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and swimming holes. Visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and exploring the park’s hiking trails. The highlight of the park is the Great Falls, a dramatic series of waterfalls and rapids that create a breathtaking sight.
Rocky Fork State Park – located in Unicoi County, Tennessee, is a relatively new state park known for its pristine wilderness and untouched landscapes. The park offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation. Visitors can explore the park’s trails, which wind through forests, meadows, and along picturesque streams. Rocky Fork State Park is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
Seven Islands State Birding Park – situated in Knox County, Tennessee, is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The park encompasses over 400 acres and is home to a variety of bird species, including migratory and resident birds. Visitors can hike along the trails, observe wildlife, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the park’s grasslands, wetlands, and river bluffs. The park’s diverse habitats make it an ideal location for birding and wildlife photography.
Sgt. Alvin C. York State Historic Park – located in Pall Mall, Tennessee, honors the life and legacy of World War I hero Sgt. Alvin C. York. The park preserves the farm and gristmill owned by York and offers guided tours, a museum, and exhibits detailing his remarkable story. Visitors can explore the park’s historic structures, hike along the trails, and learn about the extraordinary accomplishments of Sgt. York.
South Cumberland State Park – spanning multiple counties in Tennessee, encompasses a vast wilderness area known for its scenic beauty and unique geological formations. The park features spectacular waterfalls, sandstone cliffs, and expansive forests. Visitors can enjoy hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, and camping in the park’s diverse landscapes. South Cumberland State Park offers a rugged and immersive outdoor experience for adventurers seeking natural wonders and solitude.
Standing Stone State Park – located in Overton and Clay Counties, Tennessee, is named after the Standing Stone, an ancient Native American ceremonial site. The park offers a range of recreational activities, including camping, hiking, fishing, and boating. Visitors can explore the park’s scenic trails, relax by the lake, or learn about the rich history and cultural heritage of the region.
Tims Ford State Park – situated on the picturesque Tims Ford Lake in Franklin County, Tennessee, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and water recreation. The park offers opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and camping. Visitors can enjoy hiking along the park’s trails, relax on the sandy beach, or explore the beautiful lake by kayak or canoe. Tims Ford State Park provides a scenic retreat for those seeking relaxation and water-based activities.
T. O. Fuller State Park – located in Shelby County, Tennessee, is named in honor of Dr. Thomas O. Fuller, a prominent African American educator and pastor. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including camping, picnicking, hiking, and wildlife observation. Visitors can explore the park’s nature trails, visit the nature center, or learn about the important contributions of Dr. Fuller to education and civil rights.
Warriors’ Path State Park – situated in Sullivan County, Tennessee, is named after the ancient Cherokee War Path that once traversed the area. The park offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, boating, fishing, and camping. Visitors can explore the park’s extensive trail system, enjoy water activities on the park’s lake and river, or participate in interpretive programs that highlight the rich history and natural beauty of the region. Warriors’ Path State Park provides a diverse and family-friendly outdoor experience.

National Parks

State & National Forests

■ Cherokee National Forest

National Natural Landmarks

Arnold Engineering Development Center Natural Areas: Contains an extremely rare virgin swamp forest and a pristine example of an open marsh.
Big Bone Cave: Cave where giant ground sloth bones were discovered. 35.7726°N 85.557°W
Cedar Glades: The largest and best remaining example of the cedar glade community. 36.07366°N 86.31151°W
Conley Hole: One of the most spectacular and outstanding examples of a pit cave in the United States.
Cumberland Caverns: Two interconnecting caves at least 27 miles (43 km) in extent. 35.669167°N 85.680833°W
Dick Cove: A near virgin forest 35.227839°N 85.955392°W
Grassy Cove Karst Area: One of the nation’s best illustrations of karst development and underground drainage 35.856787°N 84.926373°W
The Lost Sea: Cavern system that includes the largest known underground lake in the country. 35.535556°N 84.431111°W
May Prairie: Largest and best relict prairie remaining in Tennessee. 35.450232°N 86.022274°W
McAnulty’s Woods: Only known example in western Tennessee of the upland forests of the Mississippi Embayment
Piney Falls: Contains a rare virgin mixed mesophytic forest stand.
Reelfoot Lake: Mosaic of habitats formed as a result of the New Madrid earthquake, 36.388889°N 89.388889°W
Savage Gulf: A virgin forest. 35.259°N 85.789°W