Alerts
10-14-21: Heavy rains brought severe flooding to Fall Creek Falls State Park. Cabins 11-20 were impacted by the flooding. The park is currently assessing the damage and working with guests who have upcoming reservations. We appreciate your patience during the recovery process.
The Mountain Bike Trail at Mousetail Landing is temporarily closed due to hazardous conditions. We will remove this alert when it opens.
2022-11-8: The trail to Bunkum Cave is open, but please use caution on the stairwell as park staff are continuing to work on the stairs. Thank you!
2022-12-09: The Virgin Falls Trail is open from the Scotts Gulf Road Trailhead. However, we urge hikers to use caution at the cable crossings due to high water levels. For an update on the flooding conditions, visitors can call the Virgin Falls Office at Dog Cove, phone (931)739-6747. Or call the Virgin Falls Manager Stuart Carroll at (423)414-1510.
The Booker T. Washington State Park pool will not reopen as of Summer, 2022. Unfortunately, the pool is approximately 30 years old and visitation is extremely low. Due to these factors, Tennessee State Parks can no longer justify to Tennessee taxpayers the costs associated with keeping this pool in operation. However, we are excited to have the opportunity to invest in a more fiscally responsible outdoor recreation option Booker T. Washington State Park that would provide year-round benefits.
Bunkum Cave is Closed until May 1 for Bat Management. Thank you!
Beginning November 1, 2022, the park will be closing at 4:00pm.
The Cove Lake State Park pool will not reopen as of Summer, 2022. Unfortunately, the pool is 72 years old and visitation is down. Due to these factors, Tennessee State Parks can no longer justify to Tennessee taxpayers the costs associated with keeping this pool in operation. However, we are excited to have the opportunity to invest in a more fiscally responsible outdoor recreation option at Cove Lake State Park that would provide year-round benefits.
3-18-2021: Due to some environmental issues, we are advising no one use Possum Creek at this time.
12-10-2020: Open | Black Mountain to Ozone Falls | Interactive Map (includes area, trailheads, parking, etc.): https://www.arcgis.com/home/webmap/viewer.html?webmap=762f5151ba8045b2b076c0455f37179a&extent=-86.8081,34.9055,-82.7514,36.8174
11-30-2020: **Closure** | Frozen Head State Park Boundary North to Arch Mountain: Downfall has made the trail impassable at several points. Navigating around the obstructions is dangerous. Map of Closure: https://www.arcgis.com/home/webmap/viewer.html?webmap=762f5151ba8045b2b076c0455f37179a&extent=-86.8081,34.9055,-82.7514,36.8174
Connects to Lawson Mountain...which has the following warning.
11-30-2020: The Lawson Mountain Section the CT is in poor condition. Be prepared to use GPS navigation. A form of GPS navigation is available on the Cumberland Trail Interactive Map Here: https://www.arcgis.com/home/webmap/viewer.html?webmap=762f5151ba8045b2b076c0455f37179a&extent=-86.8081,34.9055,-82.7514,36.8174
Please exercise extreme caution, plan your trip, and do not continue (& turn back) if you lose site of the trail or blazes.
11-30-2020: Tank Springs Shelter (No Longer Exists) | A fire has destroyed the Tank Springs Shelter in Campbell County roughly 3 miles south of the Tank Springs Trailhead in LaFollette towards the Devil's Racetrack in Caryville - a roughly 11-mile stretch.
9-15-2020: Nemo Bridge to Break-A-Way Bluff | This segment of trail has continuous maintenance issues due to its topography – staff are working in the area but blowdowns & other issues are common even after recent cleanings. Please exercise extreme caution, plan your trip, and do not continue (please turn back) if you lose site of the trail or blazes. If you see issues report them at [email protected] or 423-566-2229 (M-F 8am – 4:30pm ET).
08-25-2020: The Suck Creek Bridge off Hwy 27 (near Mushroom Rock) in Prentice Cooper State Forest is washed out. Staff is looking at possible options with an indefinite timetable for repair at this time.”
Updated October 25, 2019: Trail Segment Closures
Trail South of the Devil’s Breakfast Table Trailhead - extending to the Daddy’s Creek Trailhead and RMA - remains incomplete and closed. The trail can be picked up again, to the south, at the Daddy’s Creek Trailhead.
For Immediate Updates: Visit our Interactive Map at https://www.arcgis.com/home/webmap/viewer.html?webmap=762f5151ba8045b2b076c0455f37179a&extent=-86.8081,34.9055,-82.7514,36.8174 - follow our Facebook page or call our main office at 423-566-2229 from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM ET.
Please exercise extreme caution while enjoying creek areas, including waterfalls. Water levels may change suddenly, running high and moving fast in many areas and posing increased safety risk. Check out our interactive map to plan your trip: https://www.arcgis.com/home/webmap/viewer.html?webmap=762f5151ba8045b2b076c0455f37179a&extent=-86.8081,34.9055,-82.7514,36.8174
All Counties: All caves on lands managed by the Cumberland Trail State Scenic Trail are closed to the public at this time due to White Nose Syndrome.
Gorge Water Levels Ongoing Alert: Changing water levels in the gorge can result in the sudden closure of the trail access to the base of the waterfall. Rain can drastically impact the volume of water coming over Cummins Falls, making the path through the gorge dangerous for visitors. We encourage everyone to check the weather forecast in the days leading up to a visit to the park. Even if it isn't raining at the park, rain upstream can cause water levels to rise in a matter of minutes. Please remain aware of your surroundings during your visit and exit the base of the falls if you notice the water volume increasing.
For the most up-to-date information, please check the Cummins Falls State Park Facebook page. On-site park staff will post photos and trail closure alerts on that page.
The David Crockett Birthplace State Park pool will not reopen as of Summer, 2022. Unfortunately, the pool is 46 years old and visitation is down. Due to these factors, Tennessee State Parks can no longer justify to Tennessee taxpayers the costs associated with keeping this pool in operation. However, we are excited to have the opportunity to invest in a more fiscally responsible outdoor recreation option at David Crockett Birthplace State Park that would provide year-round benefits.
The David Crockett State Park pool will not reopen as of Summer, 2022. Unfortunately, visitation at the pool is down 49 percent over the last 10 years. Due to these factors, Tennessee State Parks can no longer justify to Tennessee taxpayers the costs associated with keeping this pool in operation. However, we are excited to have the opportunity to invest in a more fiscally responsible outdoor recreation option David Crockett State Park that would provide year-round benefits.
All Fall Creek Falls Golf Course facilities will close on December 23, 2022, and reopen (weather permitting) on January 2, 2023.
This alert is in effect from January 02, 2023 until further notice.
*ADVISORY 02-21-2023*
The gorge area of the park is closed due to swift, high water levels. You may still hike to the overlook to view the falls from above.
To get the most direct route to our Park Office when using GPS, please use the park address - 1825 Pilot Knob Road Eva, TN 38333. If you use the park name, it sends you to the back gate which is the long route, depending on your starting point, and there is no cell phone reception.
The fuel dock is now in operation. The restrooms and pump-out are still closed at this time.
The Harrison Bay State Park pool will not reopen as of Summer, 2022. Unfortunately, the pool is 36 years old, visitation is down 19 percent, and swimming is available in the lake. Due to these factors, Tennessee State Parks can no longer justify to Tennessee taxpayers the costs associated with keeping this pool in operation. However, we are excited to have the opportunity to invest in a more fiscally responsible outdoor recreation option Harrison Bay State Park that would provide year-round benefits.
03-25-2021: The Head of Sequatchie is open Saturdays and Sundays 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. CDT.
Directions/Details or call 423-533-2989 (M-F 8am to 4:30pm ET).
Savage Gulf State Park has been announced as the newest park in Tennessee’s system. The park includes land formerly managed as part of South Cumberland State Park and the nearly 19,000-acre Savage Gulf State Natural Area. These areas are still open and accessible as usual. Please visit Savage Gulf State Park’s page for more information and park maps. Read the full press release here.
The Lakefront Campground bathrooms are closed for the winter between November 15, 2022 and March 14, 2023. The bathrooms will reopen on March 15, 2023, as weather permits. The campground is still available for rental, but guests will need to be prepared to use the bathrooms at Happy Hollow Campground which include showers.
The Lodge at Montgomery Bell State Park is open but guest elevators are out of service due to water damage related to the recent extreme temperatures. There are a limited number of rooms that will not require the use of stairs. If you require assistance during this time, please notify our staff.
This alert is in effect from January 26, 2023 until further notice.
The Marker 66 Restaurant at Paris Landing State Park is closed for the season. It will reopen in 2023.
The Visitor Center at Natchez Trace State Park has been temporarily relocated due to renovations. Guests should go to the Visitor Center at 22390 Natchez Trace Rd Wildersville, TN 38351.
The out-of-service Visitor Center located at 24845 Natchez Trace Rd is undergoing renovations and will reopen when complete.
This alert is in effect from December 13, 2022 until May 31, 2023.
The Norris Dam State Park pool will not reopen as of Summer, 2022. Unfortunately, the pool is 45 years old, visitation is down 29 percent. Due to these factors, Tennessee State Parks can no longer justify to Tennessee taxpayers the costs associated with keeping this pool in operation. However, we are excited to have the opportunity to invest in a more fiscally responsible outdoor recreation option Norris Dam State Park that would provide year-round benefits.
The Panther Creek State Park pool will not reopen as of Summer, 2022. Unfortunately, the pool is 36 years old, visitation is down, lake swimming opportunities exist, and a public splash pad is five miles away. Due to these factors, Tennessee State Parks can no longer justify to Tennessee taxpayers the costs associated with keeping this pool in operation. However, we are excited to have the opportunity to invest in a more fiscally responsible outdoor recreation option Panther Creek State Park that would provide year-round benefits.
Due to numerous maintenance issues and safety concerns, the Maple Arch Trail has been closed to the public indefinitely. We appreciate your patience. Please be aware the Hunt Knob Trail remains open to horseback riders. Thank you!
This alert is in effect from April 01, 2021 until further notice.
The pool at Lodge Paris Landing is open and available to lodge guests between Memorial and Labor Day. However, the park pool will not reopen as of Summer, 2022. Unfortunately, the pool is 50 years old, visitation is down 50 percent and lake swimming opportunities are available. Due to these factors, Tennessee State Parks can no longer justify to Tennessee taxpayers the costs associated with keeping this pool in operation. However, we are excited to have the opportunity to invest in a more fiscally responsible outdoor recreation option Paris Landing State Park that would provide year-round benefits.
Firewood is not provided for the cabins. It is available for purchase at the park office. If guests choose to bring their own firewood, it must be certified heat-treated. Guest should refrain from bringing untreated wood into the park. Certified heat-treated wood is clearly marked with a state/federal seal.
The Roan Mountain State Park pool will not reopen as of Summer, 2022. Unfortunately, the pool is 41 years old, visitation is down, and the park currently lacks adequate lifeguard positions. Due to these factors, Tennessee State Parks can no longer justify to Tennessee taxpayers the costs associated with keeping this pool in operation. However, we are excited to have the opportunity to invest in a more fiscally responsible outdoor recreation option at Roan Mountain State Park that would provide year-round benefits.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFO: Please note swimming or wading is not permitted downstream of the Powerhouse at any time, regardless of water releases. Check TVA’s website for water release information and dam safety data at: www.tva.gov/Environment/Lake-Levels/Great-Falls.
Please read the text below about the Caney Fork River Gorge and Safety Information prior to visiting the park.
Rock Island State Park is open, but the following alert is important for all visitors
TVA Great Falls Dam and/or the TVA Great Falls Powerhouse may release water on an irregular schedule. Water discharge may change day to day or even hour to hour. All river gorge areas downstream of the TVA Dam are closed when the dam is in Active water spill mode or a discharge is likely for the day. Before planning your visit, please check TVA's website for Great Falls Dam and Powerhouse for the most current water discharge schedule. Visitors are encouraged to check the discharge schedule often. Discharge schedules can change rapidly based on lake levels, rainfall forecasts, etc. Water releases may occur with or without warning any time you are near a TVA dam or powerhouse. Visitors should be prepared for a quick exit should they hear warning sirens or notice water rising. Life jackets and hiking shoes are strongly encouraged in this area.
The park has also seen very high visitation over the last year. Please do not park on roadsides or in non-designated areas. If the park is full, please consider visiting another state park in the area.
Please check the park’s Facebook page for updates before your visit.
All Savage Gulf State Park reservations can be made through South Cumberland State Park’s reservation site. Existing reservations will be honored.
A section of the Seven Islands Loop Trail around Wayne's Pond is temporarily closed due to trail restoration efforts. Trail conditions are not unsuitable for hiking. The map below shows which portion of the trail is closed, highlighted in red.
**ATTENTION CAMPERS: If you are traveling with a trailer or RV, please use Hwy. 52 to Hwy. 136, due to inaccessibility to RVs from the south entrance of the park.
Public Notice: Swimming is not allowed at Burgess Falls State Park and Natural Area.
The Tims Ford State Park pool will not reopen as of Summer, 2022. Unfortunately, the pool is 45 years old, visitation has been in an overall decline, and lake swimming opportunities are available. Due to these factors, Tennessee State Parks can no longer justify to Tennessee taxpayers the costs associated with keeping this pool in operation. However, we are excited to have the opportunity to invest in a more fiscally responsible outdoor recreation option Tims Ford State Park that would provide year-round benefits.
The following trails are closed at Fall Creek Falls until further notice.
- The entire Lower Loop Trail is permanently closed.
The trails below are closed due to the Oct. 6 flooding.
- Upper Loop Trail
The Sgt. Alvin C. York State Historic Park Gift Shop, located in the Visitor Center, is closed for renovation until further notice. We apologize for any inconvenience.
The Warriors’ Path State Park pool will not reopen as of Summer, 2022. Unfortunately, the pool is 59 years old, visitation is down, a public pool exists nearby, and swimming in the lake is available. Due to these factors, Tennessee State Parks can no longer justify to Tennessee taxpayers the costs associated with keeping this pool in operation. However, we are excited to have the opportunity to invest in a more fiscally responsible outdoor recreation option at Warriors’ Path State Park that would provide year-round benefits.