Frequently Asked Questions

How is Tennessee State Parks responding to COVID-19? 

You can learn more about the park response on the Keeping Visitors Healthy section. 

Where do I find contact information for a particular park? 

You can find park contact information on the Contact Us page.

What rules or policies should I follow when visiting Tennessee State Parks?

Park rules, regulations, and policies are listed on the Policies page. 

What are your days and hours of operation?

All parks are open to the public seven days a week, 365 days a year. Park offices, museums, visitor centers, and historic sites may be closed two days per week and their hours may vary. The hours for most parks are one half-hour before sunrise to one half-hour after sunset. Contact the individual park for more information at www.tnstateparks.com/about/find-a-park.

When planning your trip, it is often helpful to review Active Alerts to ensure the park or area you wish to visit is currently open. 

Do Tennessee State Parks charge an access fee?

No. There is no access fee charged for any state park. All 56 state parks in Tennessee are free to enter and enjoy. Some activities at parks may require permits or reservations, but hiking and enjoying the natural environment is always free. Donations are accepted instead of access fees and help further the mission of state parks to provide access to public lands. 

Are Tennessee’s State Parks open during the winter?

All Tennessee State Parks are open for recreational activities during the winter. Most cabins, campsites, Lodges, golf courses, and restaurants are open year-round. Some may have shortened hours during the holidays. Please refer to individual parks for specifics. Please check with the individual park to determine the availability of specific amenities. To contact the park manager, visit the Contact Us page.

How do I make a reservation for a campsite, cabin, Lodge, or round of golf?

The easiest way to make a reservation to spend the night or play a round of golf is at reserve.tnstateparks.com. Interested in bringing a group or a conference to a state park? Learn more about groups and event planning under Plan a Gathering. 

How do I cancel a reservation for a cabin or campsite?

Cabin and campsite cancellations and changes must be made by calling the park with which the reservation has been made or at reserve.tnstateparks.com/cancel (cabins and campsites only). Cancellations will not be accepted via email, social media, voicemail, or other forms of electronic communication. Cabins and campsite reservations may be cancelled online. The Park or Hospitality Manager has the discretion to adjust the cancellation procedures as deemed necessary. Visit our policies page for more information.

How do I cancel a reservation at a lodge?

Individual lodge room reservations can be cancelled online or by calling the lodge. To cancel online, simply click the link below for the lodge that your reservation is at. Then follow the instructions under one of the two options. Visit our policies page for more information.

• Lodge at Fall Creek Falls
• Lodge at Montgomery Bell
• Lodge at Pickwick Landing
• Lodge at Natchez Trace
• Lodge at Henry Horton

Option 1: I have a user login/account 

• Login to view your account 
• Click on “Find Reservation” 
• Enter an arrival date for your upcoming reservation 
• Select the reservation from the list, which will take you to your itinerary 
• Click the “Options” button for the reservation. 
• If the property allows online cancellation; the “Cancel” button will be enabled. 
  • Click the “Cancel Reservation” button to complete process. 
  • You should receive a confirmation of your cancellation via email within 24 hours. If you do not please contact the property directly. 

Option 2: I do not have a user login/account 

• Click on “Find Reservation” 
• Enter the reservation “Last Name” and “Reference #”. 
  • Your reference # was provided at time of booking, it can also be found on your confirmation email. 
• Click the “Options” button for the reservation. 
• If the property allows online cancellation; the “Cancel” button will be enabled. 
  • Click the “Cancel Reservation” button to complete process. 
  • You should receive a confirmation of your cancellation via email within 24 hours. If you do not please contact the property directly. 

How do I find out about activities at state parks?

Check this link on the State park’s website at www.tnstateparks.com/events/ or call the park office for updates. In addition, many of the park lodges have developed special room and food discounts under Getaway Packages for special events. You can learn about these packages by visiting www.tnstateparks.com/about/promotions.

Is there any outside advertising or solicitation allowed in state parks?

No handbills, no soliciting of guests, or any outside advertising is allowed. Those looking to learn more about vendor opportunities in the parks can do so here. 

How do I apply for a job with Tennessee State Parks?

Learn about applying for full-time, part-time, and seasonal jobs with Tennessee State Parks on the Careers page. 

Can I collect firewood in a state park?

Collection of deadwood on the ground for firewood is allowed for use by campers and other overnight guests staying on the park. Most state parks offer firewood for sale. Check with the individual park for more details.

Can I use a metal detector?

Use of metal detectors is allowed by an individual engaged in a limited search for a lost item under the supervision of the Park Manager. No other usage is allowed without written permission from the State Archaeologist and the Director of State Parks.

Are there rules for photography, videography, or drone pilots in parks?

Information about commercial and non-commercial photography/videography/drones is available on the Photography page.

How can I obtain a gift card?

Tennessee State Parks Gift Cards may be purchased online or at any park. Orders are sent to you via USPS for intended arrival within 5 business days. In most cases, orders will be processed and mailed the same or next business day. Tennessee State Parks Gift Cards are accepted at Tennessee State Parks for overnight stays and day-use fees, as well as for purchases in the gift shops and restaurants throughout the parks (some restrictions apply).  VIEW DETAILS

How do I get on the State Park’s email list to receive Special Events Calendars and promotional discounts?

You may join this list by clicking here. You will receive an email confirming that you have been added to the list. On a regular basis, we send out emails listing dates and activities happening at all State Parks. We also send out emails offering golf, food and lodging promotions.

Do Tennessee State Parks offer any discounts?

We offer a variety of discounts to active military, Tennessee veterans, Tennessee seniors, Tennessee residents, Tennessee state employees, and others. Learn more.

Are there any National Parks in Tennessee?

There are 14 sites that are classified either as National Cemeteries, Battlefields, Scenic Trails, Rivers, Areas or Parks. For more information on these locations, visit the National Park Service website.

Where can I charge my Electric Vehicle?

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation is partnering with Rivian to install Rivian Waypoint EV charging stations at state parks across Tennessee. Each location includes two Level 2 chargers, which are compatible with all EV models currently on the road. Learn more and where to access EV chargers here.