Although only 169-acres, Bledsoe Creek State Park (named after brothers, Isaac and Anthony Bledsoe, who built a nearby fort in 1779) has a lot to offer.  Located on Old Hickory Lake, the park offers fishing, boating (two launch ramps), hiking and year-round camping.  We were impressed by the campground layout to provide a little distance between you and the next camper.

Cove Lake is a lovely park offering many fun activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, a ball field and playgrounds.  The Woods Loop is an enjoyable 1.4m paved trail with just a few hills.  If you can, try to go when spring blooms line the trail offering quite a fragrance and show.  Many begin their hike to the Devil's Racetrack and part of the Cumberland Trail at this park.  There is a wildlife observation platform where you can monitor wetland activity and another paved loop trail along the lake.  Do not miss out on the delicious Memphis style Rickard Ridge BBQ which is located near the entrance of the park.  you can continue to enjoy the beautiful view while eating fabulous BBQ!

Fall Creek Falls is one of our favorite state parks.  There is so much to do and you can stay at the park in the campground, Inn and cabins!  We love to hike around the park and then go to the restaurant located at the Inn for lunch.  There are several sections, so be sure to review the map.

Located on the former estate of Tennessee's 36th governor, the park has over 1500 acres including a skeet and trap range.  As the historic Duck River runs through the park, canoe and boat access is available. The 18-hole championship par 72 golf course is across the street from the main entrance. Lodging options include cabins, Inn and campground.  The park was being renovated when we visited, so we plan to return to see the updates. 

A ranger told us Long Hunter State Park is "Nashville's Playground".  Located on the shores of Percy Priest Lake, many enjoy swimming, boating and fishing.  There are 26 miles for hiking and loops for mountain biking.  Mostly a day use area, with only two backcountry campsites, we found plenty of options for playgrounds and picnics.  Deer and turkey are throughout the park.

Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Area is located in Manchester, TN.  Follow the link to see the history of the area.  The main trail follows the grounds that Native Americans used as a ceremonial gathering place.

Plan to stop by Barrel House BBQ in nearby Lynchburg, TN and try their famous Grilled Cheese on Crack sandwich.

Rock Island State Park is an amazing park that offers kayaking, swimming, fishing, picnicking, birding and hiking!  The park has campgrounds and cabin rentals available. If your travels take you through nearby Crossville, do not miss a chance to dine at Forte's Restaurant!

Be careful not to drive past the entrance to Cordell Hull Birthplace State Park for it is easy to do!  The museum and homestead are on one side of the road and parking for the hike is on the other.  There are restrooms at eh museum, but no refreshments.  The Bunkum Cave Trail is an easy 2.5m forest trail to visit a cave where Cordell Hull's father once made moonshine.  Caving is permitted during summer months, but registration is required.

Edgar Evins State Park is on the shores of Center Hill Lake.  Multiple campsites and cabins are available.   Mainly for lake use, a privately owned marina has boat and watercraft rentals.  Hiking, fishing and birding are also activities enjoyed at the park.

Harpeth River is a linear park mainly used for kayaking, canoeing, fishing and some hiking.  At the Narrows, you can take a brief hike to see one of the oldest man-made tunnels built in 1818.  It is the last remnant of Montgomery Bell's iron forge operation.

Although called Indian Mountain, the park is actually at the base of the mountain on level ground.  It is a multi-use park with camping, fishing, hiking and a large day use area.  Paddleboats are available.

Named after wealthy industrialist, Montgomery Bell State Park is home of the birthplace of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church and has 3,850 acres to explore.  Whether you enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, golfing, mountain biking or swimming, the whole family will enjoy this park.  A newly renovated (2020) inn, restaurant and conference center makes for an enjoyable stay.  The park also has eight cabins for optional lodging.  Nearby White Bluff, has several fun restaurants including the neighborhood bar, Salt and Pepper Grill.

Pickett CCC Memorial State Park offers camping, lodging, hiking, swimming, boating and fishing.  There are two natural bridges and an amazing rock house just a short hike away.  Pickett and Pogue Creek Canyon State Natural Area earned Silver-tier International Dark Sky Park designation in May 2015.  With Big South Fork nearby, you will not run out of fun things to do!

Known for offering some of the best bass fishing in Tennessee, Tims Ford also has a challenging 18 hole Jack Nicklaus signature golf course.  Twenty cabins and fifty-two campsites with hook-ups are lodging options.  The Lost Creek Overlook Trail includes swinging bridges and interesting remnants of a wrecked car.