Martha Sundquist State Forest

Size: 2,001 acres

Martha Sundquist State Forest, located in eastern Tennessee's Cocke County near the North Carolina-Tennessee border, is a unique and scenic destination. This 2,001-acre tract of land was purchased in 2001 from International Paper Company (formerly Champion International Corporation), which had owned the property since the 1930s. Before that, it was owned by the Lambs Gulf Company, giving rise to its long-standing nickname, "the Gulf."

As the only State Forest in the Blue Ridge province, Martha Sundquist State Forest is situated 70 miles east of Knoxville and is surrounded on three sides by the Cherokee National Forest. The forest features a single drainage system and is composed of mature mountain and cove hardwoods.

A harvest rotation schedule, established by previous owners, has been carefully followed, and significant streamside management zones—some as large as 80 acres—have been preserved.

The forest is a popular destination in East Tennessee for hiking, hunting, and fishing. During Cocke County's bear hunting season, hunting is permitted on state forest property, similar to private lands. This season is particularly popular and can lead to increased traffic on forest roads. Visitors should be cautious and mindful of the heightened activity during these times.

Additionally, while the North Cherokee Wildlife Management Area surrounds the state forest, it operates under separate regulations. You can learn more about bear hunting in Tennessee at the Wildlife Resources Agency.