In 1993, state legislature authorized private, non-profit groups to organize for maintaining and enhancing the purposes, programs, and functions of the state park system. These groups, known as Friends, are concerned citizens who have banded together to assist in protecting, preserving and promoting the beauty and the splendor of their favorite state park.
Since 1978, a group of rangers and their horses have responded to emergencies, patrolled remote areas of state parks and been friendly faces at park events. Today, there are six parks that are home to Mounted Patrol Rangers.
“This was transformative. Students that were afraid of getting dirty had muddy knees and big smiles as they reclaimed their seats on the bus to head back to school. “
That’s what we want to hear after a group of kids takes a trip to one of Tennessee’s state parks. This past school year we approved school trips for 5,000 students from across the state. More than half of those kids have never been to a state park. We fund transportation grants for Title 1 schools, and the park rangers do the rest. When rangers work with these kids, they are providing natural experiences in creeks and along trails while also building on the lessons they are learning in class by giving them hands-on-experiences.
Earlier this month, conservation leaders, state officials, and community partners gathered for the 3rd Annual Governor’s Conservation Summit at Montgomery Bell State Park. Hosted by Governor Bill Lee, this inspiring event emphasized the state’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable growth.
Middle Fork Bottoms State Park in West Tennessee has opened the new accessible outdoor classroom at Bulrush Lake. We have installed the platform and walkway, creating opportunities for children and visitors to explore nature in an inclusive environment.
Tennessee State Parks mean something special to each of us. From hiking trails to family picnics, these natural spaces give us room to breathe, play, and reconnect. In 2025, the My TN State Park Fundraiser gave park lovers a chance to show how much they care, and their response made it a remarkable year. Through generous donations, supporters showed appreciation, improved their favorite parks, and championed continued investment in Tennessee’s outdoor future.
The 2025 My TN State Park Fundraiser brought in strong support from across Tennessee, with 1,305 donors contributing $109,394. Each donation doubled as a vote, letting supporters back the parks they love in a fun and interactive way.
This engaging format helped raise essential funds while sparking friendly competition and deeper connections to Tennessee State Parks statewide. Every dollar will support meaningful projects that preserve our state’s natural beauty and enhance park experiences for future generations.
World Environment Day reminds us how vital it is to protect the natural beauty surrounding us, especially right here in Tennessee. At Tennessee State Parks Conservancy, we support sustainable practices that preserve our state’s public lands, scenic trails, and water systems for future generations. Here’s how you can help make a difference:
Running in nature offers more than physical benefits; it reconnects us with the natural world. The biophilia hypothesis suggests humans have an innate desire to connect with nature, and trail running satisfies this urge. Unlike treadmill workouts, trail running engages our senses with the sounds of birds, rustling leaves, and the scent of flowers, trees, and nature.
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.
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.