Tennessee State Parks

A small piece of Tennessee history is preserved within the confines of Roan Mountain State Park. The Miller Farmstead, established in 1908, has been maintained so that families can explore the life and times of Appalachian settlers.

Located on the shores of the beautiful Tennessee River, Paris Landing State Park opens up a world of opportunity for family fun on land and water. Fishing, depending on the season, can produce bluegill, catfish, and bass. Three hiking trails of varying difficulty, a beautiful swimming pool, and a freshwater lake provide recreation and refreshment.

Along with moderate hiking and boating, Edgar Evins State Park offers families the opportunity to get close to nature and view some rare birds such as the cerulean warbler, a breed that makes its home here for the season but is rarely seen in other parts of Tennessee.

Pickwick Landing is an excellent park for families interested in a wide variety of activities. Numerous opportunities exist for water adventure, with rentals ranging from single kayaks to large 24-foot pontoon boats. There is also a disc golf course that leads through some of the most beautiful areas of the park, and two easy hikes great for families with small children.

Fourteen natural surface hikes range from easy to moderate in difficulty. Shorter trails, such as the Indian Rock House Trail, offer inexperienced hikers a solid introduction to the sport, while the eight-mile Hidden Passage Trail provides a little challenge for more experienced hikers.

Avid hikers and backpackers will be delighted with a journey on the Red Leaves Trail. Over 40 miles long, with a north and south loop, this trail leads through dense forests, past a couple of beautiful lakes, and the oldest pecan tree in Tennessee.

There are eight easy-to-moderate trails that wind their way throughout this state park named for the Native Americans that once occupied this area of western Tennessee. The Fern Loop Nature Trail is ideal for families with children, and many of the short trails can be combined for those wanting a more challenging adventure.

Mountain biking enthusiasts will love the variation in the more than 20 miles of dirt trails at Montgomery Bell State Park. The trails' four levels of difficulty allow bikers of all skill and experience levels to enjoy the diverse terrain and gorgeous natural sights of this magnificent park.

One of Tennessee's most prized parks, Fall Creek Falls has much to offer adventure seekers. In addition to exceptional hiking, top-notch climbing and rappelling routes for beginners and experts alike await at Copperhead Rock. Also, visitors can test their endurance with the park's Canopy Challenge, a self-guided tour that features more than 70 aerial obstacles.

Located at the confluence of the Caney Fork, Collins, and Rocky rivers, Rock Island State Park attracts professional whitewater kayakers from all over the world. The park has hosted international kayaking competitions and offers many recreational boating opportunities as well as some very challenging whitewater areas.