7 State Parks Near Chattanooga, TN, You Must Explore
Adventure is closer than you think! These state parks near Chattanooga, TN – all within an hour and a half – are waiting to be explored.
In This Article
1. Booker T. Washington State Park
Named for the historic African American educator and author, Booker T. Washington State Park is a haven for outdoor adventures. Situated along Chickamauga Lake, visitors can enjoy mountain biking trails, go boating, hike scenic paths and watch for birds throughout the park’s 353 acres. The park’s classes also invite residents to go deeper into subjects like beekeeping and woodworking.
2. Harrison Bay State Park
Originally developed as a TVA recreation area in the 1930s, Harrison Bay State Park remains a favorite place for recreation. The lake is a hot spot for boating, fishing, paddle boarding and swimming. Additionally, Harrison Bay is home to a Bear Trace Golf Course, designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus and certified by Audubon International for its conservation and habitat preservation efforts.
3. South Cumberland State Park
Just under an hour from Chattanooga lives some of the best hiking and backpacking trails in the region. The park’s more than 12,000 acres stretch into Marion, Franklin and Grundy counties. South Cumberland is home to the famous Fiery Gizzard Trail, 12 miles of forest terrain ending at the stunning Foster Falls waterfall.
4. Desoto State Park
Head down to Northeast Alabama to visit DeSoto State Park, a favorite destination for families seeking time in nature. Camp in the woods or stay cozy in a cabin. Within the park, visitors can partake in fly fishing, horseback riding, kayaking, bouldering, hiking and swimming. Or adrenaline junkies can see the park from an aerial view on a zip line canopy tour.
5. Bucks Pocket State Park
A little farther south is Bucks Pocket State Park. Located along Guntersville Lake, Bucks Pocket offers more than 30 sites on its recently renovated campground. There’s also an offroad vehicle trail for those with a need for speed. For a more relaxed outing, stroll through the park’s 15 miles of easy-to-moderate hiking trails and take in the scenic views.
6. Cloudland Canyon State Park
True to its name, Cloudland Canyon is home to thousand-foot canyons, sandstone cliffs, caves and more natural sights – it’s one of the most popular state parks near Chattanooga. Hike down to a towering waterfall, play a round of disc golf or take a lap around the 5-mile West Rim Loop for stunning cross-canyon views and wildlife sightings. For an overnight stay, reserve one of their many campsites or opt for a quirky yurt.
7. Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park
Rafters will love a day on the Hiwassee or Ocoee rivers. Home to Class I, II, III, IV and V rapids, these internationally recognized waters are visited by thousands each year. If rafting is too much adrenaline for you, enjoy a pleasant float down the long river. Camping also is available at Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park, and it is adjacent to the Gee Creek Wilderness of the Cherokee National Forest.
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