Tennessee State Parks

Location:

Greeneville, TN

Highlights:

If you’re interested in presidential history and the complexities of post-Civil War America, the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site offers a powerful and personal journey. It’s a chance to walk through the life and legacy of the 17th U.S. President in the town he called home.

We Recommend This For:

History enthusiasts, presidential buffs, students, families, and anyone exploring Tennessee’s rich cultural heritage.

What we Love:

Touring Johnson’s preserved homes, visiting his tailor shop, learning from the museum exhibits, and paying respects at the President’s burial site.

• Explore the Andrew Johnson Homestead, which includes two preserved residences that offer insight into his private life and personal values.
• Visit the Andrew Johnson Visitor Complex, where you’ll find a modern museum, the President’s restored tailor shop, and a theater screening a film about his life in Greeneville.
• Reflect at the Andrew Johnson National Cemetery, where Johnson is buried beneath a monument honoring his service and ideals.
• Learn about Johnson’s presidency from 1865 to 1869, his efforts to unify the country after Lincoln’s assassination, and the controversies that defined his leadership during Reconstruction.

Distance from Knoxville:

About a 1-hour 20-minute drive northeast via I-40 E and US-11E N.

How to Get to Andrew Johnson National Historic Site:

From Knoxville, take I-40 E to US-11E N toward Greeneville. Once in town, follow signs to 101 N College Street for the visitor complex and historic area.

Location:

Oneida, TN & McCreary County, KY

Highlights:

If you’re seeking a mix of stunning river gorges, natural arches, and rich cultural history, Big South Fork offers one of the most diverse outdoor experiences in the eastern U.S. From whitewater thrills to quiet forest trails, it’s a paradise for adventurers and history buffs alike.

We Recommend This For:

Campers, paddlers, hikers, equestrians, mountain bikers, and anyone looking to explore rugged Appalachian landscapes with fascinating historical roots.

What we Love:

Scenic river canyons, the historic mining community of Blue Heron, natural bridges, and endless options for backcountry recreation.

• Explore over 90 miles of the Big South Fork River, winding through dramatic gorges and tranquil wooded valleys.
• Visit the Blue Heron Mining Community—an interpretive site that tells the story of coal mining life through preserved structures and audio tours.
• Discover one of the largest concentrations of natural bridges in the East—perfect for photography and geologic wonder.
• Camp, hike, or ride—with trails and backcountry areas ideal for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, and whitewater rafting.

Distance from Knoxville, TN:

About a 1 hour 45-minute drive northwest via I-75 N and TN-63 W.

How to Get to Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area:

From Knoxville, take I-75 N to TN-63 W, then follow signs to Oneida. The Leatherwood Ford area and visitor contact station is located at 4564 Leatherwood Rd.

Location:

Gallatin, TN

Highlights:

If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat with rich Native American history and gorgeous lake views, Bledsoe Creek State Park is the perfect spot. It’s a family-friendly destination for hiking, paddling, and camping—just a short drive from Nashville.

We Recommend This For:

Families, campers, anglers, history lovers, paddlers, and anyone wanting an easy escape into Tennessee’s natural beauty.

What we Love:

Native American heritage, access to Old Hickory Lake, scenic hiking trails, and a wide variety of recreational programs for all ages.

• Explore over 6 miles of well-maintained hiking trails open year-round, perfect for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
• Paddle, fish, or swim in Old Hickory Lake—an ideal spot for canoeing, boating, and casting a line.
• Camp in one of 57 scenic campsites, many with lake views and modern amenities for tents or RVs.
• Learn about the area’s deep Native American history through on-site interpretive signage and guided programs.

Distance from Nashville:

About a 45-minute drive northeast via TN-386 and TN-25 E.

How to Get to Bledsoe Creek State Park:

From Nashville, take TN-386 N to TN-25 E. Turn onto Zieglers Fort Road and follow signs to the park entrance at 400 Zieglers Fort Rd in Gallatin.

Location:

Henderson, TN

Highlights:

If you’re searching for a forested escape with peaceful lake views and plenty of room to roam, Chickasaw State Park is a West Tennessee favorite. With historic cabins, trails for all levels, and campsites for every style, it’s a perfect spot to unplug and explore.

We Recommend This For:

Families, campers, hikers, equestrians, and anyone looking to unwind in the wooded hills of West Tennessee.

What we Love:

Boating on Lake Placid, staying in rustic historic cabins, wrangler-friendly campgrounds, and easy hiking surrounded by 14,000 acres of state forest.

• Hike more than four miles of easy to moderate wooded trails, or explore bike-friendly roads and mountain biking paths.
• Paddle across scenic Lake Placid—bring your own or rent boats seasonally for peaceful time on the water.
• Stay overnight in one of the park’s rustic cabins, RV sites with full hookups, or tent and wrangler campgrounds—each equipped with bathhouses, grills, and picnic tables.
• Play on the lakeside playground and enjoy a picnic or cookout surrounded by Tennessee’s western highlands.

Distance from Jackson, TN:

About a 40-minute drive southeast via TN-100 and TN-22A.

How to Get to Chickasaw State Park:

From Jackson, take TN-100 east to Henderson, then turn south on TN-22A. Follow signs to the park entrance at 20 Cabin Ln, inside Chickasaw State Forest.

Romantic Tennessee State Parks:

Location:

Middlesboro, KY (Tri-point of KY, TN & VA)

Highlights:

If you want to walk in the footsteps of pioneers, Native Americans, and migrating wildlife, Cumberland Gap is a powerful place to start. This historic mountain pass helped shape American history and still inspires with its sweeping views and storied trails.

We Recommend This For:

History lovers, hikers, families, photographers, and anyone interested in early American migration routes and Appalachian mountain beauty.

What we Love:

The preserved mountain pass, rich Native American and pioneer history, and stunning scenery at the junction of three states.

• Visit the Cumberland Gap Visitor Center for exhibits, park films, and orientation to the region’s cultural and natural history.
• Hike through the historic gap itself or explore miles of trails leading to overlooks, caves, and the original Wilderness Road route.
• Learn about the more than 300,000 pioneers who crossed through here from 1775 to 1810—including Daniel Boone’s famous trailblazing.
• Take in sweeping views from Pinnacle Overlook or explore Hensley Settlement, a preserved Appalachian homestead high on the ridge.

Distance from Knoxville, TN:

Around a 1 hour 45-minute drive north via I-75 and US-25E.

How to Get to Cumberland Gap National Historical Park:

From Knoxville, take I-75 N to US-25E N toward Middlesboro. Follow signs to the park entrance at 91 Bartlett Park Road near the Cumberland Gap Tunnel.

Location:

Crossville, TN

Highlights:

Whether you’re hiking the plateau, relaxing by a quiet lake, or stepping into Tennessee history, Cumberland Mountain State Park has it all. Originally built for homesteaders during the New Deal era, the park now welcomes visitors with a full suite of outdoor fun and charming overnight stays.

We Recommend This For:

Families, hikers, cyclists, paddlers, history enthusiasts, group travelers, and anyone seeking a scenic getaway in the Cumberland Plateau.

What we Love:

Byrd Lake’s peaceful shoreline, miles of wooded trails, historical roots, and a favorite on-site restaurant and event hall.

• Hike, bike, or ride horseback along miles of forested trails through some of the most scenic areas of the Cumberland Plateau.
• Swim, paddle, or fish on Byrd Lake—this man-made lake is perfect for cooling off or exploring by boat.
• Stay in one of the park’s fully-furnished cabins, traditional campsites, or lodge-style accommodations with easy access to the lake and trails.
• Dine or gather at the park’s on-site restaurant and large recreation hall—great for events, reunions, or group retreats.

Distance from Knoxville:

About a 1 hour 15-minute drive west via I-40.

How to Get to Cumberland Mountain State Park:

From Knoxville, take I-40 W to Crossville. Exit onto US-127 S and follow signs to the park entrance at 24 Office Dr, just off Byrd Lake.

Location:

Cookeville, TN

Highlights:

If you're up for a rewarding hike that ends at a stunning 75-foot waterfall, Cummins Falls State Park is a must-visit. This rugged and peaceful park is a favorite for swimmers, hikers, and anglers looking to connect with Tennessee’s natural side.

We Recommend This For:

Adventurers, waterfall chasers, hikers, day-trippers, anglers, and anyone who enjoys scenic river gorges and a little off-the-beaten-path exploration.

What we Love:

The dramatic beauty of Cummins Falls, scenic gorge hikes, wading and fishing on the Blackburn Fork, and the secluded picnic area across from the parking lot.

• Hike the rugged trails that lead to the gorge and base of the waterfall—permits are required for gorge access during peak times.
• Swim at the base of Cummins Falls—one of Tennessee’s most iconic natural swimming spots.
• Fish for bass and Bluegill along the banks and shallow runs of the Blackburn Fork Scenic River.
• Picnic in the primitive area near the entrance—ideal for a quiet lunch before or after your waterfall hike.

Distance from Cookeville:

About a 20-minute drive northwest via TN-290 and Cummins Mill Road.

How to Get to Cummins Falls State Park:

From Cookeville, take TN-290 W to Cummins Mill Road and follow the signs to 390 Cummins Falls Lane. Parking and the trailhead are well-marked upon arrival.