Tag: Tennessee State Parks

What It Takes to Create a Tennessee State Park

Written by TN State Parks Conservancy on October 8, 2026. Posted in TN State Parks Conservancy.

Tennessee State Parks staff gather at the site of a future state park/Ryan Jenkins

During Governor Bill Lee’s second term, Tennesseans have witnessed unprecedented growth in the state park system.

Through legislative support and a bold vision for state parks, Lee’s administration has funded a record-setting 15 new state parks. This marks the greatest number of new state parks established under a single administration in Tennessee State Parks history.

These new parks are located across the state.

How did officials select the new state park locations? How do they establish a plan for opening them? And what will each park highlight about Tennessee’s landscape or important historical events?

We asked Chris Padgett, Director of Tennessee State Parks, and Ryan Jenkins, Deputy Director of Park Operations, to walk us through the journey.

Conservancy’s Donors Help Make Tennessee’s 67th State Park Possible

Written by TN State Parks Conservancy on October 8, 2026. Posted in TN State Parks Conservancy.

The State of Tennessee are granted a non-exclusive license to use the photos in any marketing or promotional context, including but not limited to: social media, websites, printed materials, email campaigns, presentations, signage, and releases to media outlets in perpetuity. This does not include use on items intended for sale (e.g., t-shirts, prints, or other merchandise) without additional permission. Credit: Matt Morrison

Clinch River Valley State Park at Horton Ford/Matt Morrison

This August marked the culmination of a dream for the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy. We joined state and local leaders to dedicate Clinch River Valley State Park in Kyles Ford, TN.

Through the support of donors like you, the Conservancy was able to help secure two key properties along the Clinch River in Hancock County. These properties are helping make Tennessee’s newest state park a reality.

Clinch River Valley: How 21 Acres Helped Create Tennessee’s 67th State Park

Written by TN State Parks Conservancy on September 1, 2026. Posted in TN State Parks Conservancy.

Group gathered at the Clinch River Valley State Park sign during the dedication of Tennessee’s 67th state park.

A remarkable stretch of Northeast Tennessee is now protected as Tennessee’s newest state park.

Clinch River Valley State Park officially became Tennessee’s 67th state park in August 2026. Located in Hancock County, the park protects land along the biologically diverse Clinch River.

The Tennessee State Parks Conservancy helped acquire key properties that made the new park and public river access possible.

For those who support the Conservancy, this is what protecting Tennessee’s public lands can look like.

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.

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.

Benefits of Outdoor Education for Kids: How Park Visits Build Curiosity, Health, and Community

Written by TN State Parks Conservancy on April 20, 2026. Posted in Kids In Parks, TN State Parks Conservancy.

instructor led outdoor education beneftis kids as they explore a river and learn about nature

What if a single day outside could change how a child learns, thinks, and sees the world? Do you remember the first time you spotted wildlife, followed a trail, or stepped into a creek? Today, we know that outdoor education benefits kids in powerful, lasting ways, yet too many children never get the chance to experience it.

These lasting childhood memories don’t come from screens—they come from adventure, from exploring the outdoors. They come from muddy knees, shared laughter on a trail, and teachers turning nature into a living classroom. These moments don’t just create memories; they shape how children see the world.

Today, ensuring kids have access to those moments matters more than ever.

Friends of Harrison Bay State Park: Tennessee’s Oldest State Park and a Dedicated Friends Group

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

There people stand in front of bench at state park.

Tennessee’s oldest state park has a strong, vibrant Friends group. Harrison Bay State Park spans 1,200 acres and includes nearly 40 miles of Chickamauga Lake shoreline. TVA originally developed it as a recreation area in the 1930s.

The park’s name comes from a large bay along the Tennessee River’s main channel. That bay covers the old town of Harrison and the last Cherokee Campground. The Cherokee Campground included three villages ruled by one of the last great Cherokee chieftains.

Harrison Bay became Tennessee’s first state park in 1937. Today, it sits in Hamilton County near Chattanooga.

World War I History Comes Alive at Sgt. Alvin C. York State Historic Park

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

Historical Reenactors stand on battle field.

This state park honors its namesake, Alvin Cullum York, one of the most decorated U.S. Army soldiers of World War I. Located in Pall Mall, Tennessee, the state established Sgt. Alvin C. York State Historic Park in 1967 after York’s wife, Gracie, donated their farm. The park also preserves York’s two-story house, general store, and post office.

Connecting Kids to Conservation and Science Through the Story of the Bobwhite Quail

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

“As a teacher, this is the type of field trip I have been waiting for.”

This year, the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy supported a field trip design that incorporates STEM learning and habitat improvement for declining Bobwhite quail. STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It represents an interdisciplinary approach that prepares students for future careers and connects kids to conservation.

Field trips are crucial for middle school STEM lessons because they provide hands-on experiences. As a result, students bring theoretical concepts to life. They also interact directly with STEM concepts, which deepens understanding and sparks curiosity.

Tag: Tennessee State Parks

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