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Connecting Chattanooga Youth with Nature: An Interview with Tennessee State Parks Conservancy Executive Director Alex Wyss

There’s something magical about the great outdoors, and a new program in Chattanooga is helping kids discover it firsthand. The program, spearheaded by the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy, is connecting Chattanooga Youth with nature. As well as fostering a love for the environment and an appreciation for the natural beauty around them.

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North Chickamauga Creek Gorge Becomes Tennessee’s 59th State Park

It’s an exciting time for conservation in Tennessee! North Chickamauga Creek Gorge, formerly a state natural area, has been officially designated as Tennessee’s 59th state park. Located 15 miles north of Chattanooga, this stunning park safeguards nearly 6,000 acres of dramatic sandstone bluffs and North Chickamauga Creek—a Tennessee State Scenic River.

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Explore Tennessee State Parks Conservancy: Preserving Nature for Future Generations

Tennessee has 59 breathtaking state parks featuring everything from cascading waterfalls to serene lakes and lush forests. The Tennessee State Parks Conservancy (TSPC) strives to enhance these natural wonders by helping ensure they remain pristine and accessible for future generations. Their mission is to safeguard the long-term health of our lands and communities while making Tennessee’s state park experiences available to everyone. Explore Tennessee State Parks Conservancy and help preserve our natural heritage for the future.

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Alex Wyss New Executive Director

The Tennessee State Parks Conservancy proudly announces the appointment of Alex Wyss as its new Executive Director, effective May 1, 2024. With over 30 years’ experience in conservation and fundraising, Wyss brings a wealth of expertise to his new role, where he will lead the Conservancy’s fundraising and preservation efforts to inspire the next generation and expand access to the natural wonders of Tennessee State Parks.

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Exploring Nature’s Classroom: Inspiring Tomorrow’s Leaders

Remember those awe-inspiring childhood field trips where your textbook science lesson came to life right in front of you? That is what the Kids in Parks Program is all about – creating those unforgettable moments for the next generation through investments in educational adventures to Tennessee State Parks.

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Parks of Possibility: Creating New Memories at Radnor Lake State Park

Will and Candie Ferrell Discuss the Transformative Power of Community at Radnor Lake State Park’s All-Terrain Wheelchair Unveiling Event


Candie Ferrell and her son Will both foster a deep connection with nature, engaging in recreational opportunities and serving as stewards of their community. Their shared love for the Tennessee state parks system is not unique. The Ferrells are like any other family with a passion for the outdoors, except that their experiences differ from most.

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Embracing Inclusion at Natchez Trace

Removing Barriers: Adult Changing Table At Natchez Trace

Natchez Trace State Park now has even more to offer, with the addition of an adult changing table designed to accommodate personal hygiene needs for park visitors of all ages, sizes, and abilities. Now, more families can fully enjoy and explore this great park — just like Micah’s.

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Enhancing Accessibility at Our Parks

Access To New Experiences At Radnor Lake State Park

At the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy, we work to support projects and programs that preserve, protect and enhance Tennessee’s parks system.

Thanks to a generous gift from Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), we are proud to unveil a new trail-ready wheelchair, now available for use at Radnor Lake State Park.

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