Tag: Outdoor Recreation

Friends of David Crockett Birthplace State Park

Written by TN State Parks Conservancy on June 29, 2026. Posted in David Crockett Birthplace State Park, TN State Parks Conservancy.

Located in Limestone, Tennessee, David Crockett Birthplace State Park encompasses 105 acres along the scenic Nolichucky River. Established in 1973, the park preserves the birthplace and legacy of one of Tennessee’s most celebrated frontiersmen.

While the Friends of David Crockett Birthplace State Park formally established the organization in 2021, community efforts to honor and protect Crockett’s birthplace date back to the 1880s. According to Friends Group President Will Vogt, generations of local residents have worked to preserve this important piece of Tennessee history for future generations.

At First Light: How the Zuckers See Tennessee’s Wild Places

Written by TN State Parks Conservancy on June 25, 2026. Posted in TN State Parks Conservancy.

Photo by Ron at Old Stone Fork State Archaeological Park

Reelfoot Lake State Park/Ron Zucker

The first light of morning breaks quietly over the ridgeline. It’s the kind of moment most visitors might pass by. But not Ron and Jeanne Zucker. For them, this is the reason to arrive early, wait patiently, and return again and again to Tennessee’s state parks with cameras in hand and curiosity intact.

“Photography has changed the way we experience the outdoors. Rather than taking a glance and walking by on a trail, we really linger and study the place. We go back to those parks again because we know they are going to change,” said Ron.

A Decade of Impact: Celebrating 10 Years of the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy

Written by TN State Parks Conservancy on June 25, 2026. Posted in TN State Parks Conservancy.

Former State Naturalist Randy Hedgepath, Tennessee State Parks Conservancy members Tom and Lynn Mulligan, TSPC Executive Director Alex Wyss, Conservancy members Ron and Kristie Hees and Conservancy board member Robert Becker and Walker Becker on a hike at Fiery Gizzard State Park.

The Tennessee State Parks Conservancy began in 2016 as a nonprofit partner to Tennessee State Parks. The organization was created from the enthusiasm and dedication of State Parks employees and operated as a supporting organization within the Tennessee State Parks offices.

“The creation of the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy marked an important step forward for our parks. We recognized that by pairing strong public stewardship with private support, we could do more,” said Bob Martineau, former Commissioner of Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation from 2011 to 2018.

Best Places to Hike in Tennessee: Trails for Every Skill Level

Written by TN State Parks Conservancy on June 19, 2026. Posted in TN State Parks Conservancy.

Fall Creek Falls cascading into the gorge at Fall Creek Falls State Park, one of the most popular hiking destinations in Tennessee.

Looking for the best hiking trails in Tennessee? From family-friendly waterfall walks to rugged backcountry adventures, Tennessee’s parks offer some of the most scenic and rewarding hiking experiences in the Southeast.

With 65 parks and more than 1,300 miles of trails, outdoor enthusiasts have endless opportunities to explore waterfalls, forests, mountain overlooks, rivers, and diverse wildlife habitats. Whether you’re searching for easy hikes near Nashville, scenic waterfall trails, or challenging wilderness treks, you’ll find a trail suited to every skill level and interest.

The state’s park network continues to grow while preserving places that showcase Tennessee’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. In June 2026, Tennessee welcomed its newest addition, Cherokee Trail of Tears State Park in Meigs County, creating even more opportunities for outdoor recreation, education, and historical interpretation.

Whether you’re planning your first hike or searching for your next outdoor challenge, these trails deserve a spot on your Tennessee adventure list.

New State Parks Coming: Conservancy & TN State Parks Team Up

Written by TN State Parks Conservancy on February 27, 2026. Posted in TN State Parks Conservancy.

Aerial image of Horse Shoe Bend, a horse shoe shaped river.

When Tennessee Governor Bill Lee unveiled his bold vision to grow our state park system to 70 parks, we knew this was our moment to make a lasting impact.

Now, that vision is becoming reality. The Tennessee State Parks Conservancy (TSPC) is thrilled to partner with Tennessee State Parks in creating two new state parks by the end of 2026—expanding access to the natural beauty that defines our state.