Enjoy the scenic beauty and adventure in Tennessee. Stay updated on what's accessible at the state's national parks, recreation areas, military parks and historic sites. This page will be updated as more information becomes available.
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Journal Communications Inc./Michael D Tedesco
Travel Safely to Tennessee's National Parks
Stay updated as national parks, historic sites, recreation areas and more cautiously reopen.
October 6, 2020
Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area has increased recreational access to trails and backcountry camping. Bandy Creek Stables and Camp Store are reopened and Charit Creek Lodge allows overnight guests. The Station Camp Campground is also open. Blue Heron Campground, Bear Creek Horse Camp and Alum Ford Campground are open. The National Park Service is working with federal, state, and local public health authorities to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and using a phased approach to increase access on a park-by-park basis. With public health in mind, visitor centers remain closed at this time. Read more.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park began a phased reopening May 9. Many roads and trails reopened to the public. Cades Cove Campground, Sugarlands Visitor Center and Backcountry Information Office, Anthony Creek Horse Camp, Cades Cove Visitor Center, Cable Mill, Abrams Creek Road, Forge Creek Road, Rich Mountain Road, Kuwohi Visitor Center and Great Smoky Mountains Association Bookstores are now open as well. Park managers will continue to examine each facility function and service provided as well as with the NPS Office of Public Health using CDC guidance to ensure public and work spaces are safe and clean for all users. Read more.
Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park
Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park began a phased reopening May 15. All roads, picnic areas and most foot traffic trails open. Access remains restricted for the Visitors Center, Point Park, Sunset Rock and Signal Point. Guests are encouraged to follow social distancing guidelines for the safety of visitors and dedicated National Park Service staff. Read more.
Middle Tennessee
Stones River National Battlefield
Stones River National Battlefield has opened trails connecting to the Stones River Greenway and the visitor center parking lot. The Visitor Center is open to the public with a capacity of 25 people from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday through Monday. Restrooms are open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Interpretive publications are available in the restroom lobby daily.
West Tennessee
Shiloh National Military Park
Shiloh National Military Park has opened access to the Visitor Center parking area, Visitor Centers with a limited occupancy of 40 people or less at one time, restroom in the parking area, picnic area and restroom. The Shiloh Battlefield, National Cemetery, Shiloh Indian Mounds National Historic Landmark, trails and tour roads are also open. Shiloh park grounds are open from dawn to dusk. Shiloh Visitor Center is open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the Shiloh Bookstore is open 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
6 Tennessee hikes you have to experience to believe
Check out these six trails to experience the beauty of Tennessee.
