Tennessee State Parks

Enjoy our Good Nature throughout July

Sycamore Shoals hosts 18th Century Independence Celebration on July 1
(EAST) Saturday June 30 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday July 1 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. ET.  Experience the 4th of July, 18th century-style! What did colonists think about a new nation? Be a guest in Fort Watauga as news of Independence arrives to the colonial frontier. Walk among historical characters and hear their varied reactions to the Declaration, from fear of war to the hope of a brighter future. The Celebration will take place on Saturday; the muster will continue until Sunday at 3 pm. Contact the park for detailed schedule at 423-543-5808.

Fall Creek Falls hosts Fourth of July Celebration on July 4
(PLATEAU) Dress up your car, your bike, or yourself for our “traditional” parade, which ends in Campground A. After watermelon and cake, we will move to the field for events such a sack race, the egg toss, tug-o-war and other family favorites. For more information call 423-881-5298.

Pickwick Landing hosts Annual Fireworks Display on July 4
Join park staff and the Hardin County Convention and Visitors Bureau for their annual July 4 fireworks show. The show is free and visible anywhere on or around the park. Before the show begins, enjoy a meal at our restaurant and then find your favorite spot to view the display. Don’t forget to bring your blanket or lawn chair. The show begins approximately at 9 p.m. CT. For more information call 731-689-3129.

Cumberland Mountain hosts 4th Annual 4th of July Parade on July 4
(PLATEAU) 9:30 a.m. CT. Meet at Park Office to decorate your bike, car, dog, etc. 10:00 a.m. Parade will begin at 10 a.m. *Decorate your bike, vehicle, dog, & yourself and show off your Independence Pride!! Family games, watermelon seed spitting contest, and much more will follow the parade at the baseball field beside Shelter 1. This activity is free to the public. For more information call 931-484-6138.

Fort Pillow hosts Independence Day Celebration on July 4
(WEST) Join Fort Pillow as we celebrate our country's independence with a day filled with outdoor programs and activities. For more information call 731-738-5581.

Natchez Trace hosts July 4^th Weekend on July 4-7
(WEST) Join us for a weekend of family fun, hayrides, pontoon trips, games and wildlife programs.  Our naturalist will be offering various programs through the holiday weekend. Alisha.Weber@tn.gov or call 731-968-3742.

Natchez Trace hosts Sunset Pontoon Trips on July 6
(WEST) Join our naturalist as they head out on Pin Oak Lake for a sunset tour every Friday evening in July. Visitors can arrive early and enjoy supper at the Lodge. There is a 10-person limit for this ride. Sign up at Pin Oak Lodge. For more information call 731-968-8176 or email Alisha.Weber@tn.gov.

Davy Crockett Birthplace hosts Independence Day Celebration on July 7
(EAST) This event is held for all our campers staying here at Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park. A “Best Decorated Camper” contest will also be held with the chance of winning 3 FREE nights of camping at our park. A “Best Decorated Bicycle” will also be given after our bicycle parade. For more information contact: Dawn.Coleman@tn.gov or call 423-257-2167.

Sycamore Shoals hosts Liberty! The Saga of Sycamore Shoals on July 12-14
(EAST) Now in our 34th Year! Tennessee’s official outdoor drama, presented by local performers against the backdrop of Fort Watauga. See the Revolution as told by the Overmountain Men: colonists who defied British law and settled on Cherokee lands. These settlers formed an independent government, made treaties with the Cherokee, defended their homes, and fought a British army at the epic battle of King’s Mountain. Bleacher seating is available in the Amphitheater. Sponsored by Friends of Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area. Ticket Prices: $12 adults, $10 seniors, $8 children, 5 and under free. Performances are Thur.-Sat. at 7:30 p.m. ET. Additional dates: July 19 - 21, and July 26 – 28. Contact the park for more information at 423-543-5808.

Johnsonville hosts Weapons of the American Civil War on July 13 & 14
Join Johnsonville State Park staff at the park's new Welcome Center each Friday and Saturday during the month of July to learn about the weapons of the American Civil War. There will be musket firing demonstrations at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. CT. Learn about infantry tactics of the Union and Confederate armies and why the Civil War was called the first “modern war.” During your visit, watch a film and explore the new exhibits about the Battle of Johnsonville. Additional dates: July 20 & 21 and July 27 & 28. For more information call 931-535-2789.

Fall Creek Falls hosts Volunteer Work Day on July 14
Every 2^nd Saturday is Volunteer Day except in September and December. Activities are physical and vary from month to month. Meet park staff and the friends group at the Nature Center at 9 a.m. CT. Wear sturdy shoes and clothing that is appropriate for the weather forecasted. Bring water and work gloves.  For more information on the specifics of the work days and to RSVP, contact Roland Creekmore at 931-946-7955 or dustylynn@blomand.net  Snacks and lunch are provided so a head count is necessary.

Roan Mountain hosts Jr. Ranger Camp on July 16-20
(EAST) Children ages 8-12 learn outdoor skills from experienced Ranger staff. For more information call 423-772-0190.

Cumberland Mountain hosts CCC Day on July 18
(PLATEAU) Meet at the Recreation Hall at 11 a.m. CT. Members of the CCC Company 3464 will be honored for their hard work constructing the park. In honor of the CCC and to celebrate our 75th Anniversary a history display will be set up with rangers dressed in CCC attire telling the story of the CCC days, a CCC slideshow of old photos, live music and much much more! For more information call 931-484-6138.

Sycamore Shoals hosts Liberty! The Saga of Sycamore Shoals on July 19-21
(EAST) Now in our 34th Year! Tennessee’s official outdoor drama, presented by local performers against the backdrop of Fort Watauga. See the Revolution as told by the Overmountain Men: colonists who defied British law and settled on Cherokee lands. These settlers formed an independent government, made treaties with the Cherokee, defended their homes, and fought a British army at the epic battle of King’s Mountain. Bleacher seating is available in the Amphitheater. Sponsored by Friends of Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area. Ticket Prices: $12 adults, $10 seniors, $8 children, 5 and under free. Performances are Thur.-Sat. at 7:30 p.m. ET. Additional dates: July 26-28.  Contact the park for more information at 423-543-5808.

Fall Creek Falls hosts Astronomy Weekends on July 20 & 21
(PLATEAU) Join us at the Inn for discussions regarding constellations, lunar lore, and our brightest star, the Sun. Telescope viewing will also be offered, weather permitting. Additional dates: August 17 & 18. For more information, email Lloyd Watkins at watkinslk@comcast.net, or visit www.CumberlandAstronomicalSociety.org.

Johnsonville hosts Weapons of the American Civil War on July 20 & 21
Join Johnsonville State Park staff at the park's new Welcome Center each Friday and Saturday during the month of July to learn about the weapons of the American Civil War. There will be musket firing demonstrations at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. CT. Learn about infantry tactics of the Union and Confederate armies and why the Civil War was called the first “modern war.” During your visit, watch a film and explore the new exhibits about the Battle of Johnsonville. Additional dates: July 27 & 28. For more information call 931-535-2789.

Bicentennial Capitol Mall hosts A Capitol History on July 21
Discover how the Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park is an extension of the Capitol complex and how the different elements of the park represent Tennessee's first 200 years of history. For more information call 615-741-5280.

Frozen Head hosts Volunteer Trail Day on July 21
(PLATEAU) 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. ET. The public is invited to join us in maintaining the park’s trails. Tools will be provided. Volunteers should be prepared for a variety of weather conditions including rain and snow. Bring food, water and a daypack. Some areas require hiking one to two miles in rugged terrain. First time volunteers must complete a liability form. Located in the beautiful Cumberland Mountains of East Tennessee, Frozen Head State Park is easy to find. From the Interstate 40 exit 347 at Harriman take Hwy. 27 North to Wartburg. Turn right (East) on Hwy. 62. Travel two miles and turn left on Flat Fork Road. Travel 4 miles to the park entrance. For more information please contact Ranger Michael Hodge at 423-346-3318 or email at michael.e.hodge@tn.gov.

Pickett hosts Volunteer Work Day on July 21
Participate in trail work, planting native species, litter clean up and other park projects. Meet park personnel and the Friends group at the park office at 9 a.m. CT. Work days generally last until 3 p.m. CT. Bring gloves, water, a sack lunch and snacks. Wear sturdy shoes and long pants. Sunscreen, insect repellant and a hat are also good to have. Feel free to work a few hours or stay the entire time. (Every 3rd Saturday is Volunteer Day except in March. The March volunteer work day will be held on March 24, 2012.) Call the park office if you have questions or need more information at 931-879-5821.

Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park hosts Archeo-Olympics on July 21
In celebration of Tennessee State Parks’ 75th anniversary, Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park would like to invite you to participate in the Archeo-Olympics on Sat., July 21. Activities include demonstrations, activities, and some friendly competition in some of these skills such as: atlatls, rabbit sticks, and blowguns, the identification of medicinal and useful plants, useful rocks and soils, and animal tracking. All events will start at the park museum. All experience levels and ages are welcome to participate and develop their skills. Please call or email the park to let us know you are coming, however anyone who shows up to the park will be able to participate in the event. Event is free and open to the public. View schedule. View flyer.  For more information call 931-723-5073.

Reelfoot Lake hosts Water Garden Tour on July 21
Due to low water, this trip has become land-based. We will drive and walk short distances to edges of the lake where we can study and see multitude of water flowers and plants growing in and around the lake. In addition to nature study this is a wonderful opportunity for nature photography. Bring your field guides, cameras, water, a snack and shoes that can get wet for this morning outing. This FREE program will begin at the Reelfoot State Park Visitor Center. Please sign up by calling the Visitor Center at 731-235-9652. For more information email Robin.Wooten@tn.gov.

Bicentennial Capitol Mall hosts Tennessee Volunteers in the Mexican-American War on July 26 Learn about the lives of the men in the 1st and 2nd Tennessee Volunteer Infantry, and the 1st Tennessee Volunteer Mounted Rifles. For more information call 615-741-5280.

Sycamore Shoals hosts Liberty! The Saga of Sycamore Shoals on July 26-28
(EAST) Now in our 34th Year! Tennessee’s official outdoor drama, presented by local performers against the backdrop of Fort Watauga. See the Revolution as told by the Overmountain Men: colonists who defied British law and settled on Cherokee lands. These settlers formed an independent government, made treaties with the Cherokee, defended their homes, and fought a British army at the epic battle of King’s Mountain. Bleacher seating is available in the Amphitheater. Sponsored by Friends of Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area. Ticket Prices: $12 adults, $10 seniors, $8 children, 5 and under free. Performances are Thur.-Sat. at 7:30 p.m. ET. Contact the park for more information at 423-543-5808.

Radnor Lake hosts National Moth Week Celebration on July 27
Join Radnor Lake and Tennessee State Park staff for a celebration of National Moth Week July 23-29. Our evening of moth fun takes place on Friday, July 27! We will observe and learn more about these noctural creatures. Event will begin at 7:45 p.m. CT. For more info and to RSVP 615- 373-3467.

Johnsonville hosts Weapons of the American Civil War on July 27 & 28
Join Johnsonville State Park staff at the park's new Welcome Center each Friday and Saturday during the month of July to learn about the weapons of the American Civil War. There will be musket firing demonstrations at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. CT. Learn about infantry tactics of the Union and Confederate armies and why the Civil War was called the first “modern war.” During your visit, watch a film and explore the new exhibits about the Battle of Johnsonville. For more information call 931-535-2789.

Frozen Head hosts CCC Reunion on July 28
(PLATEAU) 9 a.m. ET. Located in the beautiful Cumberland Mountains of East Tennessee, Frozen Head State Park is easy to find. From the Interstate 40 exit 347 at Harriman take Hwy. 27 North to Wartburg. Turn right (East) on Hwy. 62. Travel two miles and turn left on Flat Fork Road. Travel 4 miles to the park entrance. For more information please contact Ranger Michael Hodge at 423-346-3318 or email at michael.e.hodge@tn.gov.

Warriors’ Path hosts Folklife Festival on July 28
(EAST) Come celebrate Tennessee State Park's 75th anniversary, and also celebrate the folk traditions of East TN. Enjoy traditional life skills and crafts demonstrations, traditional games and contests, old-timey music, and more. And don’t miss the tales around the campfire! Free. For more info contact the park office 423-239-8531 or email Marty.Silver@tn.gov. View schedule.

Duck River State Scenic River hosts Canoe Float on July 28
(MIDDLE) Come join us as we enjoy the cool waters of the Duck River on a warm summer day. We will be on a very flat and easy stretch of river from Leftwich Bridge to the TWRA take out at Howard Bridge. This stretch of the river has a gentle current, no rapids, and will take about 4 hours to float. This is an excellent opportunity for beginners to canoe. Participants are welcome to bring their own canoe or kayak, but will have to provide their own transportation if they do. Transportation from put-in to take-out can be arranged. Canoes can be rented at a special discount of $12.50 per person or $25 per canoe through a local canoe vendor. Our put-in point is about a 45-minute drive south of Nashville on I-65. Bring lunch and water and perhaps a change of clothes. Meet at 9 a.m. CT at the Target parking area at Old Hickory Blvd. and I-65 in Brentwood. Reservations are required. RSVP by July 26 to Forrest Evans, 615-532-0431 or forrest.evans@tn.gov. The first 10 reservations can take advantage of transportation provided by the Tennessee Natural Areas Program.

Roan Mountain hosts Xtreme Roan Adventures Youth Rally on July 28
(EAST) Kids enjoy nature talks, hikes, live animals and much more. Sponsored by the Friends of Roan Mountain. http://xtremeroanadventures.org. For more information call 423-773-9234.

Dunbar Cave hosts Cooling at the Cave on July 28
(MIDDLE) Join us for our 75th Anniversary "Birthday Party" at 1 p.m. CT. We will have a short presentation on Dunbar Cave in the Visitor Center, along with cake and punch, after which everyone is invited to stay for the Friends of Dunbar Cave "Cooling at the Cave" event from 3-5p.m. CT. Celebrate the Parks 75th Anniversary with a trip back to Dunbar's past - enjoy games, music and refreshments at the cool Cave Entrance. For more information call 931-648-5526.

Radnor Lake hosts Volunteer Work Day on July 28
Participate in trail work, planting natives species, exotic plant removal and other park projects. Meet at the Radnor Lake Visitor Center at 8 a.m. CT. No RSVP necessary. (Work days are every 4th Saturday of each month, except December.) For more information call 615-373-3467 or visit the Friends of Radnor Lake website.

Panther Creek hosts 2012 XTERRA Off Road Triathlon on July 29
Join in the excitement and challenge that is XTERRA at the Panther Creek. Swim 800 Meters, Mountain Bike 16 Miles, Trail Run 4.5 Miles. This XTERRA points series event helps participants earn their way to the USA Championship event in Ogden, UT. Don't miss your chance to hit the trails and get dirty! Packet Pick-up & on-site registration - Sunday, July 29, 6:30-7:30 a.m. ET. Start time: 8 a.m. Email kevin@endurancesportsmanagement.com for more information.