Tennessee State Parks Story Book Trails tell a nature-themed story with signs placed at a child’s height on a short trail at a park. In addition to promoting literacy, and parent/guardian engagement, Story Book Trails encourage us to connect with nature and engage in a healthy, outdoor activity.
The first Story Book Trail in a Tennessee State Park was developed and executed by Leslie Anne Rawlings, Ranger at Long Hunter State Park. With her guidance, the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy was able to expand the program to other parks. Funding and implementation have varied, but largely funded by the Governor’s Early Literacy Foundation. We currently have 18 trails in and want to expand across the state of Tennessee! Want to see a map of our Storybook Trails? Click here!