David Crockett State Park
David Crockett was a pioneer, soldier, politician, and industrialist. He was born near the little town of Limestone in northeast Tennessee in 1786. In 1817, he moved to Lawrence County and served as a justice of the peace, a colonel of the militia, and a state representative. Along the banks of Shoal Creek, he established a diversified industry consisting of a powdermill, a gristmill, and a distillery in what is now his namesake park. All three operations were washed away in a flood in September 1821. Financial difficulties from this loss caused Crockett to move to West Tennessee, where he was elected to Congress. While in Washington, he fought for his people’s right to keep land they had settled on in the new frontier of West Tennessee. Crockett died at the Alamo Mission in March of 1836 while aiding the Texans fighting for independence from Mexico. The 1,319-acre park has a museum staffed during the summer months, with exhibits depicting Crockett’s life here and a water-powered grist mill.
Henry Horton State Park
Henry Horton State Park was constructed in the 1960s on the estate of the former governor of Tennessee, Henry Horton. The park is located on the shores of the historic Duck River, one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. Remnants of a mill and bridge operated and used by the family of Horton’s spouse for over a century may be seen today on the Wilhoite Mill Trail.The park offers several lodging options, including a lodge, eight cabins, 56 RV campsites, 10 tent campsites, nine primitive campsites, and three backcountry campsites. There are also three group campsites available. The Restaurant and Lounge at Henry Horton are a destination for travelers and locals.The Buford Ellington championship golf course at Henry Horton State Park is a challenging course, heavily treed with hardwoods and contains 37 bunkers.Duck River anglers can catch largemouth and smallmouth and red-eye bass and catfish, among many other species.The Henry Horton Trap and Skeet Range includes five skeet fields, two trap fields and a lodge building with concessions. Gun rental and ammo are available. A picnic shelter is available for large shoots or related gatherings. No pullers provided. Must be 18 years of age or youth sportsman. A valid hunter education card required for shooters under the age of 18.
Mousetail Landing State Park
This 1,247-acre area is located on the east banks of the Tennessee River. Tradition has it that Mousetail Landing received its name during the Civil War period when one of the area’s tanning companies caught fire. The exodus of mice fleeing the burning tannery was so profuse that the area in proximity of the park became known as Mousetail Landing.With Mousetail Landing State Park located on the Tennessee River, fishing is a popular activity. Fishing is permitted anywhere you can reach the water. Bass, bream, crappie, stripe, and catfish can be caught along the banks. Mousetail Landing has primitive campgrounds as well as sites with hookups for overnight guests. The park has one day-use, three-mile trail. There is one overnight, eight-mile trail with two screened shelters. These back-country shelters have plywood bunks and each shelter sleeps eight people. Mousetail Landing State Park has 25 picnic tables with grills located throughout the park. There is one large pavilion that can accommodate 100 people available for rent along with a gazebo that is often used for weddings.
Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park
The Old Stone Fort was built during the Middle Woodland Period, 1,500-2,000 years ago. Native Americans used this area continuously for about 500 years, eventually leaving it abandoned. By the time European settlers arrived, it was unclear of what the area had been used for which resulted in it being misnamed as a fort. In 1966, the state of Tennessee purchased 400 acres of the Chumbley estate as the core of what is now Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park.The park is home to an abundance of activities for guests to enjoy. The main hiking trail follows the wall of Old Stone Fort which was used by the Native Americans as a ceremonial gathering place. The trail threads through dramatic scenery where you can see the original entrance of the fort which was designed to face the exact spot on the horizon where the sun rises during the summer solstice. Visitors can learn about the Old Stone Fort on this hike with twelve interpretive panels as well as enjoying the areas graceful waterfalls.The Old Stone Fort attracts history enthusiasts from all over. The park’s museum consists of displays of prehistoric Native American replicas as well as dioramas and photos. The exhibits provide information on the theories regarding the enclosure’s builders, archaeological excavations at the site and the culture of its builders. There is also a small theater for viewing an orientation film and other videos as well as group presentations. The museum also houses the welcome center, park office and gift shop.
Tim's Ford State Park
Located on the Tims Ford Reservoir, the 3,546-acre Tims Ford State park sits in the shadows of the Cumberland Plateau in south-central Tennessee. The Tims Ford Lake is considered one of the most picturesque lakes in Tennessee and is regarded as one of the top bass fishing and recreational lakes in the Southeast. The Lake View Marina, located within the park, provides pontoon boat rentals as well as a boat launch and courtesy dock. The marina also includes a snack bar, bait shop, and fish-cleaning area. There is also a small inventory of canoes and kayaks available for rent.Tims Ford State Park offers multiple lodging opportunities. The park has 20 beautiful cabins situated on the wooded slopes of Tims Ford Lake. The cabins are completely equipped, including appliances, cooking and serving utensils, and linens. The park has two campgrounds for tent or RV campers. In addition, tent campers may camp on any of the six islands on the lake or at our Turkey Creek area.Another popular activity is golfing. The park is home to the Bear Trace at Tims Ford which is part of the Jack Nicklaus-designed collection. The Tims Ford Reservoir is visible from most holes on the course and comes into play on several of the 18 holes, giving the course an excellent balance of challenge and playability.
Hawkins Cove State Natural Area
Hawkins Cove is a 249-acre natural area located in Franklin County. It was originally acquired by The Nature Conservancy of Tennessee and then sold to the State to protect a population of Cumberland rosinweed (Silphium brachiatum). Cumberland rosinweed is a type of sunflower found only on the Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee. It was first described in 1800s by Augustin Gattinger in this same general vicinity. The forest within the natural area consists mostly of oaks and hickories occurring on a north facing colluvial slope. A powerline right-of-way traverses the property and an old railroad grade forms the eastern boundary. There are a few small limestone cedar barrens found scattered on the property. These barrens and openings provide the best habitat for the Cumberland rosinweed. The natural area is part of the South Cumberland Recreation Area.Site ManagementSouth Cumberland Recreation Area, Route 1, Box 2196, Monteagle, TN 37356, phone (931) 924-2980. Division of Natural Areas, William R. Snodgrass Tennessee Tower, 312 Rosa L. Parks Avenue, 2nd Floor, Nashville, TN 37243, phone (615) 532-0431.Public AccessOpen to the Public - LimitedParking or hiking trails are not provided at this time. Hunting is allowed in the area by permit. Contact the South Cumberland Recreation Area office to obtain a permit. The natural area is operated by Tennessee State Parks. Call South Cumberland Recreation Area or the Division of Natural Areas for additional information.AccessParking: YesTrail: NoDogs on Leash: NoHunting: Specific reg.Fishing: YesCamping: NoDirectionsHawkins Cove is located halfway between Sewanee and Cowan along the south side of Highway Alt. US 41.Details & MapMap to Hawkins CoveOwned by the State of TennesseeSewanee 7.5-minute quadrangleCumberland Plateau Physiographic ProvinceDesignated in 1985
Natural Bridge State Natural Area
Natural Bridge is a three-acre natural area located in Franklin County. Natural Bridge is a 25 feet high natural sandstone arch with a span of 50 feet that provides a scenic overlook of Lost Cove. There is a wet weather spring associated with a rock house located behind the natural bridge. The spring probably contributed to the formation of the arch. Lost Cove is a large karst formation on the dissected section of the Cumberland Plateau. It is essentially a giant sinkhole. Lost Creek flows into the valley and disappears into Lost Cove Cave at the Big Sinks and re-emerges as Crow Creek from Buggytop Cave within Mr. & Mrs. Harry Lee Carter State Natural Area. The site also has been referred to as Sewanee Natural Bridge since the University of the South in Sewanee once owned it. The natural area is a part of the South Cumberland Recreation Area.Site ManagementSouth Cumberland Recreation Area, 11745 US 41, Monteagle, TN 37356, phone (931) 924-2980. Division of Natural Areas, William R. Snodgrass Tennessee Tower, 312 Rosa L. Parks Avenue, 2nd Floor, Nashville, TN 37243-0447, phone (615) 532-0431.Public AccessOpen to the Public - Full AccessParking and a short hiking trail is provided. The natural area is operated by Tennessee State Parks.Parking: YesTrail: YesDogs on Leash: YesHunting: NoFishing: NoCamping: No DirectionsNatural Bridge is located south of Sewanee. The natural area is accessed via Highway Alt. 41. In Sewanee turn south onto Highway 56 and proceed 2.5 miles to Natural Bridge Road. Turn left onto Natural Bridge Road and proceed one half mile to the parking area.Details & MapMap to Natural BridgeOwned by the State of TennesseeSewanee 7.5-minute quadrangleCumberland Plateau Physiographic ProvinceDesignated in 1973
Walls of Jericho Class II Natural-Scientific State Natural Area
The Walls of Jericho is a 750-acre natural area that is within the 8,943-acre Bear Hollow Mountain Wildlife Management Area (WMA), which is contiguous to the Skyline WMA in Alabama. Both of the public lands on the Tennessee and Alabama side total 21,453 acres. The initiative to acquire this land was a lengthy project completed by The Nature Conservancy in Tennessee and Alabama. The natural area is approximately twelve miles south of Winchester in southern Franklin County. The southern boundary of the natural area follows the Alabama Tennessee state line where the actual “Walls of Jericho” is located.The “Walls” is an impressive geological feature that forms a large bowl-shaped amphitheater. Embedded in the limestone are bowling ball size holes from which water drips and spouts, creating a unique water feature. This amphitheater gives rise to steep 200-foot sheer rock walls that create the natural feature defining the amphitheater. Turkey Creek drains through the “Walls” and has been an active geological force in creating the amphitheater. The natural area forest is comprised of maples, oaks, hickories, tulip tree, American beech, eastern red cedar, and many other plants commonly associated with limestone. The forestland beyond the “Walls” feature is noteworthy with its many bluffs, large rock outcroppings, caves, and sinkholes.Not only is the “Walls” significant as a geological feature, but the natural area is also important because of its biological richness. The Turkey Creek drainage, which bisects the natural area from north to south, supports the state-endangered rare limerock arrowwood (Viburnum bracteatum). This is one of only three known occurrences in the state. Other rare species occur in the Turkey Creek watershed. The protection of Turkey Creek also helps protect downstream the Upper Paint Rock watershed where numerous rare mussel and fish species occur in the Paint Rock River.Site ManagementTWRA, P.O. Box 41489, Nashville, TN 37204, phone 615-781-6622. Division of Natural Areas, William R. Snodgrass Tennessee Tower, 312 Rosa L. Parks Avenue, 2nd Floor, Nashville, TN 37243, phone (615) 532-0431.Public AccessOpen to the Public - Full AccessThe access on the Tennessee side connects to the existing trail on the Alabama side that takes you to the Walls. There is no horseback riding permitted or hunting allowed in the natural area.\Parking: YesTrail: YesDogs on Leash: YesHunting: NoFishing: YesCamping: No DirectionsFrom Nashville take I-24 east toward Chattanooga. Take exit 127 on Highway 64 and turn toward Winchester. Stay on Highway 64 for about 15 miles and turn south on Hwy 16 and go 16 miles to the trailhead on the Tennessee side. The Alabama trailhead is approximately two miles south of the Tennessee trailhead and one mile south of the state line.Details & MapMap to Walls of JerichoOwned by the State of TennesseePitcher Ridge 7.5-minute quadrangleCumberland Plateau Physiographic ProvinceDesignated in 2006
Mr. and Mrs. Harry Lee Carter Class II Natural-Scientific State Natural Area
The Mr. and Mrs. Harry Lee Carter Natural Area is a 931-acre natural area located in Franklin County that is part of the South Cumberland Recreation Area. Named after the couple who donated the land to the State, this natural area protects part of a large solution valley associated with the karst erosional processes characteristic of the Cumberland Plateau escarpment. A significant cave system extends from Lost Cove to the head of Crow Creek. The stream systems draining into Lost Cove disappear into the Lost Cove Cave at the Big Sinks and travel underground for over a mile, emerging at the main entrance Buggytop Cave. This impressive cave entrance is 100 feet wide and 80 feet high. Peter Cave is the other main cave entrance. There have been considerable archeological artifacts of the Woodland and Mississippian period excavated from the entrance. The artifacts are on display at the University of the South in Sewanee.The cave environment is fragile. Visitors that choose to explore the cave should be careful not to disturb any formations or small animals that may be seen. The area is also home to several rare species of plants, animals and unique plant communities. Examples of rare plants include Cumberland rosinweed (Silphium brachiatum) and Eggert's sunflower (Helianthus eggertii). The forested area abounds with oaks, hickories, maples, and many shrubs. A rich mixed mesophytic forest is found in the cove near the cave entrance. This forest community has numerous dominant species that include sugar maple, buckeye, tulip poplar, buckeye, and basswood. Many of the slopes and spurs are an oak-hickory forest community with white oak prevalent on mid slopes and scarlet, black, and chestnut oak occurring on drier upper slopes. A new forest is forming here to replace the forest removed by past logging activities. There is also a limestone barrens community above the Buggytop Cave entrance that is home to native grasses and other barrens plants like liatris, rattlesnake master, and agave. The natural area has a wonderful spring wildflower display that adds much seasonal color to the forest floor.Site ManagementSouth Cumberland Recreation Area, 11745 US 41 Monteagle, TN 37356, phone (931) 924-2980. Division of Natural Areas, William R. Snodgrass Tennessee Tower, 312 Rosa L. Parks Avenue, 2nd Floor, Nashville, TN 37243-0447, phone (615) 532-0431.Public AccessOpen to the Public - Full Access. Parking and hiking trails are provided. The natural area is operated by Tennessee State Parks. There is a parking area and a 2-mile (one way) hiking trail provided. Cave tours are available.Parking: YesTrail: YesDogs on leash: YesHunting: NoFishing: NoCamping: NoDirectionsTo Mr. and Mrs. Harry Lee Carter Natural Area: take exit 134 off I-24, turn left to Sewanee, then turn left on Highway 56. Continue 10 miles to the parking area located on the left. To South Cumberland Recreation Area: take exit 134 off I-24 and turn right to Monteagle then turn left on Highway 41/56 to Tracy City. Continue for three miles to the visitor center located on the left.Details & MapMap to Carter (Harry Lee)Owned by the State of TennesseeSinking Cove & Sewanee 7.5-minute quadranglesCumberland Plateau Physiographic ProvinceDesignated in 1975
Short Springs Class I Scenic-Recreational State Natural Area
Short Springs is a 420-acre natural area located in Coffee County approximately three and a half miles northeast of Tullahoma. The natural area provides excellent contrast between the Highland Rim and Central Basin geology and vegetation. When descending along the Machine Falls trail, a visitor can observe exposed black Chattanooga shale at mid-slope, which is a formation that delineates the Central Basin from the Highland Rim. Thickets of mountain laurel grow on the upper slopes under a dry oak-hickory forest canopy that is characteristic of Highland Rim vegetation. The lower slopes and riparian areas along Bobo Creek support towering sycamore, buckeye, magnolia, beech, and tulip poplar trees with a rich shrub layer and herbaceous cover.Short Springs is one of the very best spring wildflower locations in the state. In the spring, moist slopes are covered in trout lilies, Virginia bluebells, jack-in-the-pulpit, larkspur, and Dutchman's breeches. Large flowered trillium (Trillium grandiflora), southern red trillium (Trillium sulcatum), and barren strawberry (Waldsteinia fragarioides) are uncommon plants for Middle Tennessee that occur here. The natural area also supports two state-listed endangered plant species, Nestronia (Nestronia umbellula) and broad-leaved bunchflower (Melanthium latifolium).This biological diversity is related to the rich forest slopes and ravines, low cascades, springs and waterfalls that support it. Scenic features like Machine Falls drops more than 60 feet and is nearly equal in length across. The Upper and Lower Busby Falls on Bobo Creek are two prominent cascading waterfalls that can be seen from overlooks on the Bobo Creek trail. The steep escarpment with its numerous wet weather seeps are particularly impressive during the moist winter and spring months. Water is a significant feature at Short Springs as it once was the water supply for Tullahoma before construction of Normandy Dam.Site ManagementDivision of Natural Areas, William R. Snodgrass Tennessee Tower, 312 Rosa L. Parks Avenue, 2nd Floor, Nashville, TN 37243, phone (615) 532-0431.Public AccessPublic access is allowed. *Parking is extremely limited at Short Springs SNA. If parking spots are unavailable, the area has met its maximum capacity and visitors may not park in non-designated areas to enter the site. Consider visiting this site during weekdays or other non-peak times to ensure ability to park and enter the natural area.Parking: YesTrail: YesDogs on Leash: YesHunting: NoFishing: NoCamping: NoDirectionsProceeding north on Jackson St. (US 41A), from the business district, turn right on Hogan St. (at Jiffy Lube, 4 blocks), turn left on Country Club Dr. (at the small grocery store, 5 blocks). Country Club becomes Short Springs Rd; follow for several miles to the Short Springs water tower on the right. Short Springs Natural Area is on the left.Details & MapMap to Short SpringsOwned by the State of Tennessee, TVA, & the City of TullahomaNormandy Lake 7.5-minute quadrangleEastern Highland Rim Physiographic ProvinceDesignated in 1994
May Prairie Class II Natural-Scientific State Natural Area
May Prairie is a 492-acre natural area in Coffee County near Manchester. The most impressive feature at May Prairie is the open grassland community that protrudes into the surrounding oak forest where the oak barrens begin. The open grassland is primarily comprised of a little bluestem community and a tall grass prairie community with an occasional sedge meadow found in wet depressions. A swamp forest forms the headwaters of what once was the "prairie tributary." The tall grass prairie component with big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii), Indian grass (Sorghastrum nutans), switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) and plume grass (Erianthus giganteus) tend to follow the old prairie tributary. The little bluestem community represents the drier end of the prairie gradient and is prevalent throughout the open grassland. In spring, the little bluestem community provides a splendid floral display of orange, blue, and white color as Indian paintbrush, false indigo, and bluets appear in full bloom. In late summer many species of sunflower are common with the rare southern dock (Silphium pinnatifidum) and two species of blazing star (Liatris spicata and L. microcephala) prominently flowering.May Prairie is one of the State's most floristically diverse natural areas with 25 of its more than 300 plant species that occur here considered rare in Tennessee. It supports disjunct plants known from the Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plains including the only state location for both the snowy orchid (Platanthera nivea) and the coastal false-asphodel (Tofieldia racemosa). In addition, May Prairie has many species common to the Midwest tall grass prairie that are unusual in the Southeast. May Prairie was discovered during a botany foray in 1947 by Dr. A. J. Sharp and colleagues from the University of Tennessee while stopping for lunch at the Prairie Café. They were told that a prairie could be found behind the restaurant.Management goals at May Prairie include restoring hydrology (including the prairie tributary) where draining for agriculture had occurred, and controlling the woody vegetation encroachment. Prescribed burning is a management tool used in the open grassland and in the oak barrens here. There are a large number of acres of restorable oak barrens associated with the natural area.May Prairie is also recognized by the Department of the Interior as a National Natural Landmark.Site ManagementDivision of Natural Areas, William R. Snodgrass Tennessee Tower, 312 Rosa L. Parks Avenue, 2nd Floor, Nashville, TN 37243, phone (615) 532-0431.Public AccessOpen to the Public - Limited AccessParking is available on Asbury Rd. No trails. This area is open to the public every day from sunrise to sunset, but has no developed trails.Parking: YesTrail: NoDogs on Leash: YesHunting: NoFishing: NoCamping: No DirectionsFrom I-24 take the Manchester exist 114. Proceed south on U.S. 41 away from Manchester for approximately one mile. May Prairie is on the north side of U.S. 41 across from an auto salvage business. A small parking area for the WMA is on Asbury Road on the right about one and a half miles off of U.S. 41.Details & MapMap to May PrairieOwned by the State of TennesseeManchester 7.5-minute quadrangleEastern Highland Rim Physiographic ProvinceDesignated in 1973
Duck River Complex Class II Natural-Scientific State Natural Area
The Duck River Complex is a 2612-acre natural area complex in Maury County that consists of five natural areas within the 12,800-acre Yanahli Wildlife Management Area (WMA). It is managed by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency as a WMA.Natural areas within the WMA support federal and state-listed species associated with the globally rare Middle Tennessee Cedar Glade and Barrens Ecosystem. These include the Columbia Glade (327-acres), Moores Lane Glade (331-acres), Howard Bridge Glade (321-acres) and Sowell Mill (306-acres).. Rare plants found here include the federally endangered leafy prairie-clover (Dalea foliosa), limestone blue star (Amsonia tabernaemontana var. gattingeri), limestone fame-flower (Talinum calcaricum), Tennessee milk-vetch (Astragalus tennesseensis), Duck River bladderpod (Lesquerella densipila) and glade cress (Leavenworthia exigua var. exigua).The Rummage Cave site (50 acres) supports a rare woodrat population and the federally endangered gray bat (Myotis grisescens). It is a short horizontal cave that terminates in five successive oval rooms about 15-feet high and 30 feet wide. Cheeks Bend (800-acres) includes high quality representative cedar glades, scenic bluffs overlooking the Duck River, and extensive cedar and hardwood forests.The importance of the Duck River Complex is also enhanced because of its association with the Duck River State Scenic River. There are thirteen miles of the 30-mile state scenic river corridor that flows through this 12,800-acre public land. The Duck River is noted for rich faunal diversity particularly the several federal endangered mussel species that occur there. These natural areas were designated to assure that federal and state-listed species were protected when TVA transferred the Columbia Dam lands to the State for public use. There is a parking area and a two-mile trail at Cheeks Bend that has bluff vistas.Site ManagementTennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, PO Box 40747, Nashville, TN 37204, phone (615) 781-6500; Division of Natural Areas, William R. Snodgrass Tennessee Tower, 312 Rosa L. Parks Avenue, 2nd Floor, Nashville, TN 37243 phone (615) 532-0431.Public AccessOpen to the Public - Full AccessThere is a two mile trail and parking area at Cheeks Bend.Parking: YesTrail: YesDogs on Leash: YesHunting: Yes, observe safety zones near trailsFishing: YesCamping: NoDirectionsThe parking area at Cheeks Bend is on Cheeks Bend Road one mile south of Sowell Mill Pike approximately two miles east of I-65. From I-65 exit to highway 412/99 and head west approximately one mile and turn left on Rock Springs Road and go approximately four miles to Sowell Mill Pike and turn left and go approximately three miles and turn right on Cheeks Bend Road.Details & MapMap to Duck River ComplexMap to Cheeks BendOwned by the State of TennesseeColumbia, Glendale & Verona 7.5-minute quadranglesCentral Basin Physiographic ProvinceDesignated in 2002
Stillhouse Hollow Falls Class I Scenic-Recreational State Natural Area
Stillhouse Hollow Falls is a 90-acre state natural area located approximately 21 miles southwest of Columbia and three miles northeast of Summertown off Hwy US 43 in Maury County. The natural area is on the Western Highland Rim in the Duck River watershed. The geology of this region creates scenic natural features such as seeps, flat shale-bottom streams, and waterfalls, both small and large, which help shape the region’s dissected topography.The natural area is named for its most significant feature, Stillhouse Hollow Falls, which can be seen by walking approximately 2/3 of a mile along the Stillhouse Hollow Falls trail. The trail crosses an unnamed tributary that forms small scenic cascades before plunging approximately 75 feet over the falls. A deep hollow is formed below the falls that is surrounded by steep slopes where wet-weather springs emerge contributing to a rich habitat supporting a colorful spring wildflower display of trillium, spiderwort, wild geranium, phlox and many other species.The beginning of the trail to the falls passes by a showy shrub layer of oak-leaf hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia), Alabama azalea (Rhododendron alabamense), deerberry and downy mock-orange (Philadelphus pubescens). The forest on the lower slopes and along the stream is comprised of a canopy of large sugar maples, sycamores, white oaks, beeches, and tulip poplars beneath which grow many species of shrubs such as spicebush, pawpaw, and alder. On the steeper slopes below the waterfall, bladdernut (Staphylea trifolia) and pagoda dogwood (Cornus alternifolia) are plentiful. The surrounding upper slopes and the steeper dry ridges are where large oaks and hickories dominate the forest canopy.Stillhouse Hollow Falls was designated a state natural area in 2006 and is protected in perpetuity under the Natural Areas Preservation Act of 1971. It was acquired by the Tennessee Parks and Greenways Foundation (TPGF) and then sold to the State at a reduced cost. The TPGF provided a trail development grant to the Friends of Maury County Parks and the Tennessee Trails Association that facilitated opening the natural area to the public on June 3, 2006. The grant money was used to develop the small parking area, provide signage, build the kiosk, and develop the trails.Site ManagementDivision of Natural Areas, William R. Snodgrass Tennessee Tower, 312 Rosa L. Parks Avenue, 2nd Floor, Nashville, TN 37243, phone (615) 532-0431. Maury County Parks and Recreation Department, 1018 Maury County Park Drive, Columbia, TN 38401 phone (931) 375-6101.Public AccessOpen to the Public - Full AccessHiking trails are provided.*Parking is extremely limited at Stillhouse Hollow Falls SNA. If parking spots are unavailable, the area has met its maximum capacity and visitors may not park in non-designated areas to enter the site. Consider visiting this site during weekdays or other non-peak times to ensure ability to park and enter the natural area. Parking: YesTrail: YesDogs on Leash: YesHunting: NoFishing: NoCamping: NoDirectionsFrom Nashville, take I-65 south to exit 53 onto TN-396 west (Saturn Pkwy); from TN-396 merge onto US-31 south and go approximately 8 miles to the intersection with US-412/43; turn right onto US-412/43 and stay on US-43 for approximately 21 miles. The natural area parking lot will be on the right.Details & MapMap to Stillhouse Hollow FallsOwned by the State of TennesseeSummertown 7.5-minute quadrangleWestern Highland Rim Physiographic ProvinceDesignated in 2006
John Noel at Bon Aqua Class I Scenic-Recreational State Natural Area
John Noel at Bon Aqua State Natural Area is a 35-acre area located in Hickman County. It supports a small remnant forest that has old growth forest characteristics. The forest has a diversity of species including towering white oak trees with extraordinarily large diameter trunks. The white oaks are a dominant canopy species here and are estimated to be more than two or three centuries old. Their monetary value as veneer quality wood is why stands of white oak trees of this stature long since disappeared from our landscapes. A mix of other impressive size and old age-class trees are found in this forest. Tulip poplar trees, along with various species of hickory and other oak species are also impressive size trees. This white oak mesic forest community includes sugar maple, American beech, ash, persimmon, cherry, elm species, and sassafras. Another interesting component of this forest is umbrella magnolia (Magnolia tripetala), which is a relatively uncommon species on the Western Highland Rim but is common here in the understory. Other shrub and understory species include flowering dogwood, American holly, black haw, spicebush, redbud, pawpaw, hop hornbeam, and hearts-bustin (Euonymus americanus).The forest here also has historic significance. It was once a part of the property where the Bon Aqua Hotel and health spa stood. This enterprise occurred between the mid-1800s to the 1920s. Some ruins of its foundation are still present on the adjacent private property, which today is a National Historic Registry site. This was also the location for the first meeting of the Tennessee Bar Association in 1882. It is likely that there was some limited small-scale manipulation of the forest during this time. The forest was said to have had a few small cabins built on it. The natural area occurs on a gentle hill and is mainly flat on top with its sides sloping gently to the north and northwest.Site ManagementDivision of Natural Areas, William R. Snodgrass Tennessee Tower, 312 Rosa L. Parks Avenue, 2nd Floor, Nashville, TN 37243, phone (615) 532-0431.Public AccessPublic access is permitted. There is a small three vehicle parking area located just off Old Hwy 46 (see directions). Beginning at the parking area is a one-mile loop trail that circles through the natural area before leading back to the parking area, providing an opportunity to view the trees for which this natural area was established.Parking: YesTrail: YesDogs on Leash: YesHunting: NoFishing: NoCamping: NoDirectionsFrom I-40 take exit 172 onto Hwy 46 and proceed south 4.8 miles and turn right after the post office onto Church Rd. Go 1.5 miles and turn left onto Old Highway 46 (the Storytellers Museum is on the corner at this intersection) and travel approximately 7/10 of a mile to the natural area parking lot on the left. Details & MapMap to John Noel at Bon AquaOwned by the State of TennesseeBon Aqua Springs 7.5-minute quadrangleWestern Highland Rim Physiographic ProvinceDesignated in 2007
Devil's Backbone Class I Scenic-Recreational State Natural Area
Devil's Backbone is a 950-acre natural area in Lewis County. Devil's Backbone offers a visitor the opportunity for a quiet hike adjacent the Natchez Trace Parkway. The trail follows the ridges of Tennessee's Highland Rim and drops down along a creek into a hollow and back again along the ridge. This inviting walk provides time for enjoying nature and quiet reflection. The approximately three mile trail is a moderately strenuous loop with about 200 feet of elevation change.Devil's Backbone has a diversity of community types that are representative of the Western Highland Rim. Examples of these include: 1) White Oak-Northern Red Oak-Hickory Forest 2) Chestnut Oak Forest 3) Chestnut Oak-Black Oak-Hickory Forest 4) Beech-Tuliptree-White Oak-Sugar Maple Forest 5) Chestnut Oak-Shortleaf Pine Forest 6) White Oak-Northern Red Oak-Tuliptree Forest 7) Scarlet Oak-Southern Red Oak-Mockernut Hickory Forest and 8) Sycamore-Tuliptree-Beech Forest.Not many high quality examples of Western Highland Rim forest communities are known to exist because of present and past land use patterns. While Devil's Backbone represents second or third growth forest, it is unlikely many other sites on the Western Highland Rim will be identified that better represent the region's upland vegetative types. The forested area outside the existing boundary provides an important buffer and creates a much larger landscape scale ecosystem. The integrity is further improved since there is little exotic pest plant invasion compared to many other areas in the region. Another value relates to its recognition as a Class 1 scenic - recreation area. It can support day use activities and provide education opportunities regarding natural area values without impairing sensitive ecological areas. This opportunity is enhanced because of its location along the Natchez Trace Parkway.Site ManagementDivision of Natural Areas, Jackson Environmental Field Office, 1625 Hollywood Drive, Jackson TN 38305, phone (731) 512-1369. Division of Natural Areas, William R. Snodgrass Tennessee Tower, 312 Rosa L. Parks Avenue, 2nd Floor, Nashville, TN 37243, phone (615) 532-0431. Natchez Trace Parkway, 2680 Natchez Trace Parkway, Tupelo, MS 33804-9715, phone (800) 305-7417.Public AccessPublic access is allowed. Parking and a hiking trail are provided.Parking: YesTrail: YesDogs on Leash: YesHunting: NoFishing: NoCamping: NoDirectionsDevil's Backbone State Natural Area is located near Hohenwald on the Natchez Trace Parkway. From Nashville, head southwest on the Parkway to mile marker 394 where a large sign points to the parking area. From Highway 412, head northeast on the Natchez Trace for about 3 miles, the entrance is on the left.Details & MapMap of Devil's Backbone (This map is a georeferenced PDF)Google Map DirectionsOwned by the State of TennesseeGordonsburg 7.5-minute quadrangleWestern Highland Rim Physiographic ProvinceDesignated in 1997
Wells Hill Park
Wells Hill Park is a 3.2 mile lightly trafficked out and back trail located near Fayetteville, Tennessee that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, running, and nature trips.
Laurel Hill WMA
Site Directions: From Columbia, take Hwy 43 to Hwy 20. Follow Hwy 20 through Summertown and turn left on Hwy 240 (Turnpike Road). Take Hwy 240 to Hwy 241 (Napier Road). Turn right on Hwy 241. Turn left on VFW Rd and stay straight to VFW lake and deer check station. Deer check station address is 74 VFW Rd. Lawrenceburg TN. 38464. Check Station 931-762-4537. Check station is only open during gun hunts. Maps are outside at the check station and at all horse parking areas. WMA headquarters phone number is 931-762-5749.Laurel Hill Lake – Address is 39 Peter Cave Rd., Lawrenceburg TN. 38464. Laurel Hill Lake Bait shop 931-762-7200. From 64 HWY turn onto Chisholm Crossing Rd which becomes Brush Creek Rd and the lake entrance is on right. Laurel Hill Lake - Lat: 35.3513°N Long: -87.53376°WVFW Lake - Lat: 35.3567°N Long: -87.4845°WHours: daylight hours - Unauthorized entry or presence is prohibited between sunset and sunrise. Seasonality: year-roundFees: Fees: any applicable license/permit requirements.Site Description: Laurel Hill Wildlife Management Area is owned by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and is in northwest Lawrence County Tennessee. It consists of 14,952 acres. Eighty-five percent of the property is mature hardwoods, the remaining acreage is managed openings of early successional grass or brushy areas, planted food and cover plots ranging from clover, corn, milo, millet, lespedeza, native warm-season grasses which provide hunting opportunities for deer, turkey, small game, and dove. There are 30 miles of chert gravel roads which provide good access throughout the property. There are also approximately 30 miles of horse-riding trails. The Little Buffalo River runs through the middle of the property and there are numerous other small streams that run into the Little Buffalo. There are two agency lakes within Laurel Hill WMA that provide excellent Bass, Bluegill, Catfish, and Crappie fishing opportunities. The largest is Laurel Hill Lake it is 325 acres, and the VFW lake is 22 acres. There is one campground in the WMA for hunters that is primitive camping, so no electrical or water hookups. It is across the street from 276 Napier Rd., Lawrenceburg TN 38464, no sign in or registration required. Laurel Hill also has 3 deer hunting blinds to assist hunters with disabilities. Special Use – ATV/UTV’s allowed only on roads open to motor vehicle traffic. All hooved animals must be ridden on designated trails or roads open to motorized vehicles. Hooved animals and ATV riding are prohibited during all big game (deer, turkey) seasons. Hooved animal riding and ATV use permitted only by individuals possessing a license valid to hunt the WMA OR a High Impact Habitat Conservation Permit. The use of alcoholic beverages is prohibited. Wildlife to Watch: Neotropical migratory bird species are common in summer, including Summer and Scarlet Tanager, Worm-eating Warbler, and Kentucky Warbler. Cerulean Warblers also nest here, one of the few locations in the western highland rim where they can still be found nesting. Loggerhead Shrikes are rare, but regular nesting in the area. Great Blue Heron, Eastern Bluebird, and Belted Kingfishers are regularly seen year-round.On Laurel Hill Lake, Common Loons, Mallards, Gadwall, Wood Ducks, and Bufflehead can be abundant in winter. Spring migration can yield a wide variety of migrant birds including Magnolia Warbler, Yellow Warbler, and Bay-breasted Warbler.Wild Turkey, White-tailed Deer, squirrel, rabbit, and other game species are abundant.
Bark Camp Barrens WMA
Site Directions: From Nashville, take I-24 east to Manchester exit 111 (Hwy 55). Go north on Hwy 55 and take the first right (Ragsdale Road). Go 4.6 miles to the first of three access points via Ragsdale Rd.From Hwy 55, go 4.7 miles on Ragsdale road to access with a parking lot. At 6.8 miles from Hwy 55, turn right on Hickerson and follow to WMA signs.For access to the south side of Bark Camp Barrens WMA via Asbury Rd, take I-24 exit 114 and travel south on Hwy 41 for approximately 0.7 miles and turn left on Asbury Rd.Travel a couple of miles and turn left on Warren Rd (look for white house with a green tin roof on left). At the sharp left turn, there is a gravel road and WMA sign by a red barn/shed.Park at the open barn (100 yds from Warren Rd) for access to pond and fields.Barn on Warren Rd - Lat: 35.47485°N Long: -85.97550°WHickerson Rd access - Lat: 35.4937°N Long: -85.9619°WHours: daylight hoursSeasonality: year roundFees: noneSite Description: Approximately 250 acres of native warm season grasses are found on the south side of the WMA, behind the red barn. Mature oak-hickory forests and wetland mitigation of hardwoods is along Hickerson Rd and Ragsdale Rd.Along Hickerson Rd old and young pine stands are currently present. In total, 2,800 acres comprise Bark Camp Barrens WMA with the majority being in mature hardwood forest.Wildlife to Watch: Henslow's sparrow is a common breeding bird with 25-40 breeding pairs annually.Other grassland birds include Dickcissel, Grasshopper Sparrow, Blue Grosbeak, Northern Bobwhite, and Field Sparrow.Prairie Warbler, Yellow-breasted Chat, and White-eyed Vireos are found in the hardwood mitigation, while Yellow-throated Vireo, Ovenbird, and Kentucky Warbler are commonly found in the mature hardwood forests.American Kestrel, Northern Flicker, and Red-headed Woodpecker nested in dead pines just south of Hickerson Rd along with the sod farm through 2008, however most snag trees fell in late 2008 and European Starlings were present in 2009 with a pair of American Kestrels.Most of the snags are gone as of 2012 as are the Red-headed Woodpeckers and Northern Flickers.
Mingo Swamp WMA
Site Directions: From Winchester, TN, travel west on Hwy 50 to Owl Hollow Rd. Travel south on Owl Hollow Rd. Turn right on Cole Lane to access the north area. Continue south on Owl Hollow Rd and turn left on Mingo Rd, which travels along the boundary.A third access point is on Owl Hollow Rd (see lat-long below)Lat: 35.15153°N Long: -86.196306°W, on Owl Hollow Road, an old field that has grown up in the thick early successional forest.Lat: 35.173458°N Long: -86.202679°W, on Cole Rd., access to warm-season grasses and forest.Hours: daylight hoursSeasonality: year-roundFees: noneSite Description: The 370 acre WMA is a mix of mature hardwoods and open fields and shrubs.The access area off Cole Rd has some good warm-season grass fields with access to mature forest.Other areas are primarily mature hardwood forests. These areas are often flooded during wet times of the year and may hold water for extended periods of time.Hunting is allowed. Wildlife to Watch: General woodland birding is excellent.Old fields provide habitat for sparrows, towhees, and northern bobwhite.Open areas provide habitat for waterfowl in winter.NOTE: Some areas are used for recreational purposes. Please use these links before visiting the location.Mingo Swamp WMATWRA WMA InformationTennessee Hunting GuideTennessee Fishing GuideFWS Mingo Web Page
Bear Hollow Mountain WMA
Site Directions: From Winchester, head south on Hwy 16, up onto the plateau and through a small community to WMA signs.The WMA extends to the Alabama state line. Multiple access roads are available throughout the year for hiking and views of the nearby valley.Overlook and TN trailhead to Walls of Jericho - Lat: 34.99291°N Long: -86.06518°WHours: daylight hoursSeasonality: year-roundFees: noneSite Description: Extensive second-growth hardwood forests are found across the 17,000 acre Bear Hollow Mountain WMA. Some ridgetops have been cleared for the restoration of native warm-season grasses. Small forested wetlands are scattered, but accessible.Many gravel roads through Bear Hollow Mountain WMA are gated at various times of the year, but parking is available for hiking at these locations and at trailheads for hiking trails.Hiking trails with parking lots are available at two locations near the Alabama state line. The northern access has a nice overview of the valley and a 1-mile hiking trail loop. Hikers can head south and connect with the trail that leads to the Walls of Jericho in Alabama.Trailhead access for the Walls of Jericho State Natural Area, which is an excellent trail worth hiking, is accessible from just across the state line.Wildlife to Watch: Breeding forest interior Neotropical migratory songbirds are common, including Worm-eating Warbler, Kentucky Warbler, Scarlet Tanager, and Wood Thrush.At dusk, Whip-poor-wills are heard along the roads across the WMA.In clearcut areas, Black-and-White Warbler, Prairie Warbler, Yellow-throated Warbler, Indigo Bunting, Eastern Towhee, are found.In thick regeneration, you may find Chestnut-sided Warbler and Blue-winged Warbler in migration, with nesting suspected but unconfirmed.In spring migration, nearly all warblers can be found, including Cerulean Warbler.NOTE: Some areas are used for recreational purposes. Please use these links before visiting the location.Bear Mountain WMATWRA WMA InformationTennessee Hunting GuideTennessee Fishing Guide
Owl Hollow Mill WMA
Site Directions: Owl Hollow Mill WMA is located in various areas around Tims Ford Reservoir. Access is primarily by boat but a few walk-in areas are located by traveling HWY 50 west from Winchester. One area is located on Fairview Rd and another at the end of Maple Bend Rd both of which turn off Hwy 50.Lat: 35.19731 N Long: -86.165333 WLat: 35.20078 N Long: -86.17842 WHours: daylightSeasonality: year-roundFees: noneSite Description: The nearly 3,000 acres WMA is predominately mature hardwoods and thickets with occasional fields located along the banks of Tims Ford Reservoir. Hunters should be aware that some portions of Owl Hollow Mill WMA are near private housing and subdivisions and restrictions would apply to hunt in those areas for safety purposes.Wildlife to Watch: General woodland birding is excellent with old fields providing habitat for sparrows, towhees, and warblers.Because of the location, around the reservoir, Bald Eagles and ospreys, as well as various Waterfowl are common. Deer and turkeys are fairly abundant.NOTE: Some areas are used for recreational purposes. Please use these links before visiting the location.Owl Hollow MIll WMA hunting regulationsTennessee Hunting GuideTennessee Fishing Guide
