There are tons of things to do outside in Tennessee. The state is rife with natural beauty. There are mountains and fields and plateaus with rocky ridges and waterfalls. If you’re looking for extravagant beauty in the American south, it’s safe to say that you’ll find it here in the Volunteer State. During the summer season, you can extend your great outdoors experience with a camp out at a state park. Wondering, “Which state parks to visit in Tennessee for an amazing summer camp out?” Well, wonder no more! We looked all around for the best state parks in Tennessee, where you can enjoy a seasonal slumber – and we can confidently say that we succeeded. The following parks offer up highly affordable campsites and plenty of opportunities for fun in nature. These seven parks are definitely THE state parks to visit in Tennessee.

1. Rock Island State Park
82 Beach Rd, Rock Island, TN 38581, USA
emwilson_photography - Flickr
Rock Island State Park is popular for folks looking to kayak or experience the whitewater sections of the Caney Fork River. Located in Warren County, it's a popular park both for primitive camping and cabin-seekers, with ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking. For more info, visit the park’s website.
2. Henry Horton State Park
Henry Horton State Park, 4209 Nashville Hwy, Chapel Hill, TN 37034, USA
Michael Hicks - Flickr
This Marshall County gem sits on 1,100 acres of what used to be former Tennessee Governor Henry Horton's lake. The Duck River cuts through the park, making it great for folks who enjoy water sports and hiking. Primitive campgrounds are available for reservation, as are cabins and hotel accommodations within the park. For more info, visit the park’s website.
3. Frozen Head State Park
Frozen Head State Park, 3208, 964 Flat Fork Rd, Wartburg, TN 37887, USA
Tim Mowrer - Flickr
Located in Morgan County, Frozen Head State Park is a popular spot for campers who are looking to find some of the most isolated wilderness in the state. The park is also home to some of the highest mountains in Tennessee! There are 20 rustic campsites available for reservation, and two group sites with a capacity up to 20 people each for larger get-togethers. For more info, visit the park’s website.

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4. Fall Creek Falls State Park
Fall Creek Falls State Park, 2009 Village Camp Rd, Spencer, TN 38585, USA
Michael Hicks - Flickr
This Van Buren County beauty is the largest and most visited state park in Tennessee. Known as a "resort-style" state park, not only can you hike and bike in this state park, but you can golf, zip-line, camp, and even go horseback riding! For more info, visit the park’s website.
5. Norris Dam State Park
Norris Dam State Park, 125 Village Green Cir, Rocky Top, TN 37769, USA
Norris Dam State Park - Facebook
Campsite reservations at Norris Dam State Park can easily be made online and is great for folks looking to indulge in boating. With miles of hiking trails and a view that stretches for miles, this 4,000-acre state park on the Norris Reservoir is truly a diamond in the rough. For more info, visit the park’s website.
6. Roan Mountain State Park
527 TN-143, Roan Mountain, TN 37687, USA
Roan Mountain State Park - Facebook
Roan Mountain State Park sits right on the Tennessee-North Carolina State Line, and it boasts more than 2,000 beautiful acres cut through by the gorgeous Doe River. With 12 miles of hiking trails perfect for afternoon tromping and campgrounds and cabins available for reservation, it's a true dream. For more info, visit the park’s website.
7. Big Ridge State Park
Big Ridge State Park, 1015 Big Ridge Park Rd, Maynardville, TN 37807, USA
Big Ridge State Park - Facebook
Fall in love with Big Ridge State Park, a forested park that comes close to 4,000 acres along Tennessee's Appalachian Ridge. A natural refuge that boasts a lake, cabins, and a primitive campground, it's a prime spot for all sorts of outdoor activities, such as hiking and boating. For more info, visit the park’s website.

So, do you agree? Are these the state parks to visit in Tennessee? What do you think the best state parks in Tennessee are? Tell us!

When it comes to things to do outside in Tennessee, parks aren’t your only option. If you’re looking for another fun way to marry the wilderness to everyday life, this waterfront restaurant is a dream come true!

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State Parks To Visit In Tennessee

Daniella DiRienzo | February 21, 2022

Aside from state parks, what are the best parks in Tennessee?

There’s much more than state parks to visit in Tennessee. There are several national parks, too, including the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site in Greeneville. A must-see for all ages, visitors to the site can learn all about Andrew Johnson’s presidency and his life after the Civil War. The visitor center is the perfect place to begin your exploration of the site. From there, you can move on to the homestead, where Johnson resided after serving as the 17th president of the U.S., as well as the national cemetery, where he was laid to rest.

What are fun things to do outside in Tennessee?

When it comes to things to do outside in Tennessee, rock climbing is a great choice. The craggy terrain of Tennessee creates the perfect opportunity for a thrilling climb. The Obed Wild and Scenic River, for instance, boasts some amazing climbing opportunities. Managed by the National Park Service, the area is home to more than 300 climbing routes, which vary in difficulty.

What are the best hiking trails in Tennessee?

Hiking trails in Tennessee are abundant. One of the state’s most incredible trails can be found in the Virgin Falls State Natural Area, a 1,157-acre natural area in the state’s Upper Cumberland region. The eight-mile, out-and-back trail, which is accessible year-round, is a bit strenuous, so it’s recommended for more experienced hikers. However, any effort exerted will be more than worth it, as the trail boasts several waterfalls and unique geological features, along with elevation and scenery changes that make for a satisfying, scenic trek.

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