How Donor Support Transformed Tennessee State Parks in 2025

The My TN State Parks Annual Fundraiser continues to transform parks across Tennessee. In 2025, donor support created measurable impact statewide. Your gifts strengthened conservation, improved public safety, enhanced wildlife care, and expanded family-friendly education. If you want to support Tennessee State Parks, your donation funds projects like these. As we prepare for the April 1, 2026, campaign kickoff, we celebrate what your generosity made possible.

Donor Support Upgraded Standing Stone State Park

Two of Standing Stone State Park’s most popular “staff members” received a major upgrade in 2025. Elvis and Shadow, the park’s beloved snakes, now live in a new tropical snake case. Donors funded this improvement through the My TN State Parks campaign. The new enclosure meets Tennessee State Parks Captive Animal Policy standards. It also improves visibility inside the Visitor Center.

Guests can now see the snakes clearly during educational programs. Elvis and Shadow moved into their new home on January 16, 2026. This upgrade improves animal welfare and strengthens hands-on learning. Snake presentations remain a visitor favorite. When you donate, you help keep park programming thriving.

Chickasaw State Park Birds of Prey Program Impact

Donor support also sustains wildlife conservation in Tennessee State Parks. Chickasaw State Park’s Birds of Prey Program provides lifelong care for three non-releasable raptors. Visitors can meet Jack, a Barred Owl, Henry, a Red-Tailed Hawk, and Marco, a Red-Shouldered Hawk. Your gifts covered medical treatment, specialized diets, and safe housing. Donations also funded aviary updates that improve safety and comfort.

Your support strengthens conservation education across the region. Jack participates in outreach programs that teach communities about native wildlife. Henry anchors the Birds of Prey Feeding Program at the park. Marco is training now and will join educational outreach soon. These programs create unforgettable experiences and inspire stewardship.

Life-Saving Equipment at Reelfoot Lake State Park

Public safety remains a top priority for Tennessee State Parks. In 2025, Reelfoot Lake State Park needed to replace expired AED batteries and defibrillator pads. These devices support emergency response during cardiac events. Supporters of the My TN State Parks Annual Fundraiser made those updates possible. Park staff now have fully operational equipment ready for emergencies.

Your donation supports preparedness and protects the people who visit and work in our parks. Gratefully, families can explore with greater peace of mind.

Literacy and Outdoor Learning at Roan Mountain State Park

Donors expanded literacy and outdoor engagement at Roan Mountain State Park through the 2025 My TN State Parks campaign. With those funds, the park built a giant storybook installation for its Storybook Trail. The featured title, Benny the Hellbender, invites families to read page by page while they explore the trail together.

Donations covered lumber, construction, installation, and the book’s artwork and design. This nature-themed experience supports early literacy and encourages meaningful parent involvement. It also gets kids moving outdoors and helps families build stronger connections to nature. Projects like this demonstrate how donor support creates lasting community-wide impact.

Looking Ahead to the 2026 My TN State Parks Campaign

The impact of the 2025 My TN State Parks Fundraiser reached far beyond individual projects. In 2025, nineteen parks and the Trail Pack exceeded their fundraising goals. Every park raised at least $200. That momentum shows how much Tennesseans value these public lands.

Every gift, regardless of size, strengthens the parks we love. Tennessee State Parks exist to be forever and for everyone. The 2026 My TN State Parks Annual Fundraiser begins April 1, 2026. Visit the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy to learn more and plan your 2026 impact today!