You Can Make the Difference: Support Tennessee State Parks Before Time Runs Out
Love Tennessee’s natural beauty? Now’s your chance to make the difference. The My TN State Park Fundraiser is your opportunity to give back—and make a real impact.
Tag: Tennesse State Parks Conservancy
Give Back to the Parks You Love This April
This April, you have a purposeful opportunity to support the places that bring peace, adventure, and connection with nature—our Tennessee State Parks. Through the annual My TN State Parks campaign, you can give directly to trail restoration, Kids in Parks, or the parks you love most.
Run for the Trees: The Bob Ross Happy Little 5K Comes to Tennessee
Get ready to lace up your running shoes for a good cause! The Bob Ross Happy Little 5K: Run for the Trees is back, and Tennessee State Parks Conservancy is proud to sponsor this exciting event supporting Tennessee’s beautiful state parks.
How To Locate Adult Changing Tables
Adult changing tables are essential for creating inclusive spaces where everyone can enjoy outings and explore the outdoors. These facilities provide a safe, hygienic solution for individuals with disabilities or medical needs who require personal care assistance. Without them, many families and caregivers face significant challenges when planning outdoor adventures, often limiting their ability to enjoy nature. This article highlights an invaluable resource: a nationwide interactive map providing an easy way to locate adult changing stations across the United States. This tool lets families confidently plan outings and outdoor adventures by knowing where to find essential amenities.
Every Sip Makes a Difference
Enjoy a great cup of coffee because now every sip makes a difference to help protect Tennessee’s natural beauty. By purchasing coffee from Just Love Coffee, you directly support Tennessee State Parks Conservancy and its mission to preserve and maintain our state parks for everyone.
Expanding Accessibility with Adult-Sized Changing Tables
Tennessee State Parks Conservancy Inspires Giving to Ensure Everyone Can Enjoy the Outdoors
In December 2024, Tennessee State Parks proudly announced the expanding of accessibility by installing adult-sized changing tables at four additional state parks. These vital additions bring the total number of parks equipped with the tables to 10, enhancing accessibility for individuals of all abilities and their caregivers.
59 Parks, 12 Months: A Journey Through Tennessee’s Natural Wonders
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.
Reflecting on a Year of Progress and Gratitude at Tennessee State Parks Conservancy
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.
Our State Park System is Growing!
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)
- Scott’s Gulf Wilderness State Park.
Enriching Youth Lives Through the Power of Parks
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.