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.
A Remarkable Year of Support for Tennessee State Parks
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.
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.
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.
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.
Giving Tuesday, held on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving, is a global movement celebrating the spirit of generosity and community. Launched in 2012 as a response to the consumerism of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Giving Tuesday encourages individuals, organizations, and communities to support causes they care about, whether through donations, volunteer work, or acts of kindness. Its impact is profound. Last year alone, over $3 billion was donated in just one day, demonstrating the power of collective giving.