Scenic view of mountains.
Source: HERE News Network | By: HERE News
Tennessee boasts a whopping 57 state parks, and for the residents of Chattanooga, five of these exquisite parks are within an hour’s drive! The rich history and diverse scenery of these parks contribute to the outdoor allure Chattanooga provides for both locals and visitors alike.
Harrison Bay State Park, established in 1937, stands out as not just the first state park in Hamilton County, but indeed in all of Tennessee. Developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the park covers 1,200 acres and boasts 40 miles of shoreline along Chickamauga Lake. The park amenities range from a golf course, marina, to a scenic walking path.
A year after the creation of Harrison Bay park was Booker T. Washington State Park. Initially erected as an African American state recreational center, this park along Chickamauga lake was named in honor of Booker T. Washington, the prominent leader and educator. Dedicated in 1950, the park provides essential recreational infrastructure across its 353 acres, including a swimming pool, picnic area, playground, and a six-mile bike trail.
Though it engulfs vast swaths of Tennessee, the Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail State Park makes its local appearance in Hamilton County. With its path meandering through the ridges and gorges of the Cumberland Plateau, it offers the county’s residents a unique outdoor experience. This park, with its impressive 33,500-acre coverage, is Tennessee’s largest state park and the only linear one, running vertically through 11 counties.
Located half an hour away from Hamilton County is the Red Clay State Historic Park. This significant historical site commemorates the Cherokee Nation, functioning as their last governance seat before being forcibly moved westward on the Trail of Tears. Now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it is visited by many interested in exploring this impactful chapter of Native American history.
East of Chattanooga is the Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park, named after the two rivers flowing through it. Since 1977, this park has been celebrated for its outdoor recreation. One significant milestone for the park was hosting the 1996 Olympics Whitewater Competition on the Ocoee River, marking the river’s rapids on the global map.
Between these five state parks and numerous others in its vicinity, Chattanooga offers residents and visitors a plethora of scenic, historic, and recreational opportunities. The region’s diverse state parks cater to everyone’s interests, gratitude to their rich history and captivating landscapes. Whether you’re a local or a visitor ready to road trip, one thing is for sure-you’ll have plenty to explore in and around Chattanooga!
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