In 2024, Ron Hees visited all 59 Tennessee State Parks, facing challenges, enjoying stunning landscapes, and creating unforgettable memories. He noticed young students on field trips, reconnected with childhood experiences, and discovered pieces of Tennessee’s rich history. Montgomery Bell’s visit revealed the Cumberland Presbyterian Church’s roots, while ArcheoFest at Pinson Mounds showcased vibrant energy. Each park offered unique experiences, deepening his appreciation for Tennessee’s natural wonders.
As the year draws to a close, we are overwhelmed with gratitude for all we’ve achieved together in 2024. Thanks to the generosity of supporters like you and the dedication of our incredible Tennessee State Parks team, we’ve celebrated monumental milestones. For this, we have been gratefully reflecting on a year of progress and gratitude.
Giving Tuesday, held on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, is a global movement celebrating the spirit of generosity and community. Launched in 2012 as a response to the consumerism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Giving Tuesday encourages individuals, organizations, and communities to support causes they care about, whether through donations, volunteer work, or acts of kindness. Its impact is profound. Last year alone, over $3 billion was donated in just one day, demonstrating the power of collective giving.
It’s an exciting time for Tennessee State Parks as our state park system is growing! During Gov. Lee’s State of the State address in February, he announced plans to open four new state parks, with a goal to fund an additional eight. This fall, two new parks opened, bringing the total number of state parks in Tennessee to 59.
In August, Middle Fork Bottoms State Park in Madison County was dedicated. Conservation of this 1,000-acre tract had begun since the Conservancy’s Executive Director, Alex Wyss, toured the property in 2015 with TDEC Commissioner David Salyers. At the time, Commissioner Salyers was the head of the West TN River Basin Authority. The vision was to take flood-prone marginal farmland, restore more natural flows, and demonstrate the multiple benefits wetlands provide. It is nothing short of amazing to see how the community has worked together to create a unique state park that is already highly popular for fishing, biking, kayaking, and walking.
North Chickamauga Creek Gorge State Park was dedicated in September. It spans nearly 6,000 acres in north Hamilton and Sequatchie counties and is home to miles of trails, kayaking, and the popular Blue Hole swimming spot. Previously, the state managed the natural area as part of the Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail State Park. It is Tennessee’s 59th designated state park.
Additional future parks include:
Devil’s Backbone State Park in Lewis County
Fort Southwest Point State Historic Park in Roane County
Head of the Crow State Park in Franklin County
Hiwassee Scenic River State Park & Ocoee River State Park — Currently managed jointly as Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park (Polk County)
This summer, the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy launched a program to benefit youth mental health while expanding its year-round engagement with Tennessee’s youth. By increasing involvement, the Conservancy aims to help youth and families from historically marginalized communities access the physical and mental health benefits of outdoor public spaces.
As the air cools and the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, gold, and orange, there’s no better time to experience fall than at a Tennessee State Park. With various events and activities, this season is perfect for making memories and enjoying the natural beauty around you.
Public lands are a treasure providing immense value to Tennessee. They serve as a cornerstone for environmental health, economic growth, and community well-being. Protecting over 200,000 acres of public land is crucial to preserving Tennessee’s natural beauty, wildlife, and resources for future generations.
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.
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.
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.
