Welcome to our blog on National Parks in Tennessee! This article will give you an overview of some of the amazing national parks that Tennessee has to offer. National Parks are protected areas that are managed by the federal government for the enjoyment and conservation of their natural and cultural resources.
Tennessee is home to several national parks, each with its unique natural beauty and history. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States, offering stunning mountain views, scenic drives, and diverse wildlife. Another national park in Tennessee is the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, which preserves the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains and the historic importance of the Cumberland Gap as a passage through the mountains.
Discover Tennessee’s natural, cultural, and historic heritage. Tennessee National Parks offer diverse and varied natural landscapes, family-friendly recreational activities, varied lodging accommodations, volunteer opportunities, and hundreds of interpretive programs and events. There are 1100 miles of trails, 372 cabins, 36 campgrounds, and over 80 waterfalls.
Tennessee’s national parks offer something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, wildlife, or outdoor activities. Plan your visit today to experience the natural beauty and cultural significance of these incredible parks.
List of National Parks In Tennessee
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States and is located in the southern Appalachian Mountains of eastern Tennessee. The park covers more than 500,000 acres and is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The park offers scenic drives, hiking trails, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Admission to the park is free, but some activities may require a fee.
2. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is located in Middlesboro, Kentucky, just a short drive from Tennessee. The park preserves the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains and the historic importance of the Cumberland Gap as a passage through the mountains. Visitors can explore the park’s trails, historic sites, and scenic overlooks. The park is open year-round, and operating hours vary by season.
3. Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area are located in northeastern Tennessee and southeastern Kentucky. It is one of the foremost national parks in Tennessee for outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, and whitewater rafting. Visitors can also explore the park’s scenic overlooks and historic sites. The park is open year-round, but some facilities may have seasonal closures or reduced hours.
4. Mammoth Cave National Park
Located in Kentucky, Mammoth Cave National Park is known for its extensive cave system, with over 400 miles of explored underground passageways. The park also offers hiking trails, camping facilities, and scenic drives. The park is open year-round, but cave tours have specific operating hours.
5. Congaree National Park
Located in South Carolina, Congaree National Park is home to one of the largest intact areas of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States. Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, kayaking routes, and unique wilderness areas. The park is open year-round, but operating hours vary by season.
6. Shenandoah National Park
Located in Virginia, Shenandoah National Park is known for its scenic Skyline Drive and hiking trails that offer stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This is one of the national parks in Tennessee for Visitors for camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. The park is open year-round, but some facilities may have seasonal closures or reduced hours.
7. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina)
While the majority of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located in Tennessee, a portion of the park extends into North Carolina. Visitors can access the park through the town of Cherokee and explore the park’s scenic drives, hiking trails, and waterfalls. The park is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
8. Hot Springs National Park
Located in Arkansas, Hot Springs National Park is known for its natural hot springs that have been used for therapeutic purposes for centuries. Visitors can also explore the park’s hiking trails, scenic drives, and historic bathhouses. The park is open year-round, but some facilities may have seasonal closures or reduced hours.
9. Cumberland Island National Seashore
Located in Georgia, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a barrier island that offers visitors a unique coastal experience. It is among the national parks in Tennessee for engaging in adventurous activities like visiting historic sites, including the ruins of Dungeness Mansion. Visitors can also hike the trails at the park and have fun on the sandy beaches. The park is open year-round, but operating hours vary by season.
10. Everglades National Park
Located in Florida, Everglades National Park is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse ecosystem, including marshes, mangroves, and sawgrass prairies. The park offers hiking trails, boat tours, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The park is open year-round, but some facilities may have seasonal closures or reduced hours.
There are many National Parks near and in Tennessee that offer visitors a wide range of experiences, from exploring underground caves to hiking along the coast. Each park has its unique features and operating hours, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.
Conclusion
The National Parks in Tennessee and the surrounding areas offer visitors a wealth of opportunities to explore and appreciate the natural beauty and cultural significance of the region. From the majestic Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the historic Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, Tennessee’s National Parks provide something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to hike, camp, or simply take in the stunning scenery, these parks are not to be missed.
In addition to the parks within Tennessee, there are also several National Parks in nearby states, such as Mammoth Cave National Park, Congaree National Park, and Shenandoah National Park, that are easily accessible from Tennessee. Exploring these nearby parks can add even more variety and excitement to your outdoor adventures.
National Parks in Tennessee and the surrounding areas offer a wide range of activities and experiences, making them perfect destinations for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, be sure to take advantage of these incredible parks and all that they have to offer.
