Red Clay State Historic Park is located in the extreme southwest
corner of Bradley County in Tennessee, just above the Tennessee-Georgia
state line.
The park encompasses 263-acres of narrow valleys formerly used
as cotton and pasture land. There are also forested ridges
that average 200 feet or more above the valley floor. The site
contains a natural landmark, the Blue Hole Spring, which arises
from beneath a limestone ledge to form a deep pool that flows
into Mill Creek, a tributary of the Conasauga and Coosa River
system. The spring was used by the Cherokee for their
water supply during council meetings.
Special Events
Aug. 3 & 4 - Honor and Remember 175 Years: Cherokee Trail of Tears
Honor and Remember is a living history event commemorating the 175th anniversary of the Trail of Tears. Re-enactors will provide a living history of 18th century through early 19th century life (pre 1838), including Cherokee and non-native settlers, sutlers, blanket traders and demonstrators. We are also looking for quality living historians who can share the skills, crafts of this time period. For more information about the event or to participate please call Park Manager Erin Medley at 423-478-0339 or erin.medley@tn.gov.
Oct. 26-27 - Inter Tribal Pow Wow
This annual event features traditional Native American dance, food and arts. Sponsored by the Friends of Red Clay and the Native American Services of Tennessee, the event includes traditional dancers, storytelling, living history demonstrations along with a number of games and activities for the whole family. The festival is free and open to the public on Saturday and Sunday, with a $5 parking fee per vehicle or motorcycle. Red Clay is located in the extreme southwest corner of Bradley County and is the site of 11 of the last 12 Cherokee Council meetings before the infamous Trail of Tears. For information call 423-478-0339.
Picnic Facilities
Red Clay has a 100-person capacity picnic pavilion and 18 individual
picnic tables. The picnic shelter may be reserved up to one
year in advance and is equipped with a grill, a water fountain
and restrooms.
Individual picnic tables each have a grill and are available
on a first-come, first-served basis.
Other Activities
Behind the amphitheatre near the picnic area is an entrance
to a 1.7 mile loop trail which goes to the Overlook Tower. The
trail is a moderate grade and is well marked. A short nature
trail begins at the spring and ends at the farmstead.
Butterfly Checklist
Dragonfly and Damselfly Checklist
Tour Buses
Tour buses are welcome.
