Quick Summary:

  • What makes Tennessee’s state park system special?
    • Tennessee is home to a fantastic state park system that promotes diverse resource-based recreation while conserving the natural environment and preserving authentic Tennessee places and spaces for communities to enjoy.
  • What is the purpose of Tennessee’s state parks?
    • Established to preserve and protect the state’s scenic areas through a well-planned and professionally managed system of state parks, the system ensures nature conservation and recreational opportunities.
  • What features can visitors find in Tennessee’s state parks?
    • The state park system is home to some fantastic parks, reserves, and sanctuaries that feature lakes, waterfalls, unique fauna and flora, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.


  • Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

1. Andrew Johnson National Historic Site ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Attractions
Andrew Johnson National Historic Site | Tennessee State Parks
© Zack Frank/stock.adobe.com

2. Chickasaw State Park ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Category: Activities
Chickasaw State Park | Tennessee State Parks
© Venera/stock.adobe.com

3. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Category: Activities
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park | Tennessee State Parks
© Zack Frank/stock.adobe.com

4. Cumberland Mountain State Park

Category: Activities
Cumberland Mountain State Park | Tennessee State Parks
© Jim Vallee/stock.adobe.com

5. Cummins Falls State Park

Category: Activities
Cummins Falls State Park | Tennessee State Parks
© Tobias/stock.adobe.com

6. Fall Creek Falls State Park

Category: Activities
Fall Creek Falls State Park | Tennessee State Parks
© Jim Vallee/stock.adobe.com

7. Manhattan Project National Historical Park

Category: Activities
Manhattan Project National Historical Park | Tennessee State Parks
© NPS Photo

8. Norris Dam State Park

Category: Activities
Norris Dam State Park | Tennessee State Parks
© Melinda Fawver/stock.adobe.com

9. Reelfoot Lake State Park

Category: Activities
Reelfoot Lake State Park | Tennessee State Parks
© aheflin/stock.adobe.com

10. Rock Island State Park

Category: Activities
Rock Island State Park | Tennessee State Parks
© Michael Shake/stock.adobe.com

11. South Cumberland State Park

Category: Activities
South Cumberland State Park | Tennessee State Parks
© Samuel/stock.adobe.com

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