Tennessee State Parks
Parks by the 3 States of Tennessee
A family list of state parks, sorted into West, Middle, and East. Day use is free. A cabin or a campsite is not. Book that on the state site. Always check current conditions before you go.
West Tennessee
Reelfoot Lake State Park
Tiptonville
A lake made by the 1811–12 earthquakes. Winter is eagle season.
Getting there: Highway 21 east of Tiptonville, in the northwest corner of the state. Day use does not need a reservation. A cabin or campsite does. Book that on the Tennessee State Parks site before you leave home.
Official park page · (731) 253-9652
Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
Millington
Bluff forest north of Memphis, with a lake and short trails.
Getting there: About 20 minutes north of Memphis on Highway 51, then Riddick Road. Check the park page the morning you go.
Official park page · (901) 876-5215
Natchez Trace State Park
Wildersville
The largest state park in Tennessee, with lakes and cabins.
Getting there: I-40 exit 116, then Highway 114 south.
Middle Tennessee
Fall Creek Falls State Park
Spencer
Waterfalls on the Cumberland Plateau, including a 256-foot drop.
Getting there: About 30 minutes south of Crossville on Highway 111, then Highway 284. Day use does not need a reservation. A cabin or campsite does.
Official park page · (423) 881-5298
Montgomery Bell State Park
Burns
Lake, trails, and cabins west of Nashville.
Getting there: Off I-40 west of Nashville, exit 182 or 188.
Cummins Falls State Park
Cookeville area
Popular waterfall and swimming hole. Permits required for the gorge on busy days.
Getting there: Near Cookeville. Check the official site for current access rules.
East Tennessee
Roan Mountain State Park
Roan Mountain
High-country park under the rhododendron balds. Cooler than the valley. Cabins book up for the June bloom.
Getting there: Highway 143 south of Roan Mountain town.
South Cumberland State Park
Monteagle / Tracy City
Multiple units with waterfalls, overlooks, and trails on the plateau.
Getting there: Several access points along Highway 56 and near Monteagle.
Full list and booking on the official Tennessee State Parks site