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Frozen Head State Park |
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Frozen Head State Park and Natural Area is situated in the beautiful Cumberland
Mountains of Eastern Tennessee near Wartburg. Frozen Head, elevation of 3,324,
is one of the highest peaks in Tennessee west of the Great Smoky Mountains. From
its observation tower on a clear day, one can plainly see the Cumberland
Plateau, Tennessee Ridge and Valley, and the Great Smoky Mountians. In winter,
the mountain peaks are often capped with snow or ice while the lower valleys
remain unadorned, thus giving the park's namesake, Frozen Head. The park's lush
vegetation, small streams, waterfalls and beautiful mountains make Frozen Head
one of Tennessee's most scenic parks.
Camping
There are 19 campsites scattered throughout the camping area. Visitors will find
a new modern bathhouse that provides hot showers. A centrally located frost-free
water faucet is provided year-round. Each campsite is equipped with a parking
slip, picnic table, grill, lantern hanger and firewood is usually available.
Electricity, water hookups and dump stations are not available at Frozen Head.
There are 11 backcountry campsites available. There is no charge for backcountry
camping, but a permit is required. There is a bathhouse available to backcountry
campers located at the main trail head.
Frozen Head also offers an overflow campground to large groups. This site is
equipped with a portable toilet.
Contact the park for more information.
Fishing
Mountain stream fishing for rainbow trout can be enjoyed by the fishing
enthusiast. Fishing is allowed anywhere below DeBord Waterfall down to the park
entrance. A valid Tennessee fishing license and trout stamp are required . The
streams are stocked during March and April only.
Tennessee Fishing Regulations (exit TDEC)
Tennessee State Parks fishing policies
Hiking Trails
Hikers must inquire in the Visitors Center about open trails.
Trails range from easy to very difficult. A color topo map may be purchased at
the Visitors Center.
Trails are open daily from 8 a.m. until one hour before sunset. This is one of
the finest trail systems in Tennessee. There are over 50 miles of very scenic
and challenging foot trails throughout this wild and rugged 11,876 acre mountain
park. The trails feature waterfalls, giant sandstone rock formations, bluffs,
abundant wildlife and 14 mountain peaks over 3,000 feet in elevation.
Each of the 20 trails are color blazed and most of the trails inter-loop
together giving a choice of 7 loop trails ranging from .6 mile to 15 miles
round-trip.
Horseback Riding
The park has one trail that is accessible for horseback riding. The Jeep Road
trail is a 6.9 mile trail, one-way. From late spring until late fall, trail
riders should pack their own water. This trail is for day-use only. There are no
overnight facilities.
Visitors must bring their own horses. Trailers should be unloaded and parked in
the grassy field adjacent to the park entrance gate.
Contact the park for more information.
Natural Area
Frozen Head State Park and Natural Area is situated in the beautiful Cumberland
Mountains of Eastern Tennessee near Wartburg. The 11,876 acres of relatively
undisturbed forest contains some of the richest wildflower areas in Tennessee.
The mountainous terrain varies from an elevation of 1,340 feet to over 3,000
feet on 14 different mountain peaks.
In 1988, all of the Frozen Head State Park acreage except approximately 330
acres was classified as Natural Area. The 330 acres lie in the Flat Fork and
Judge Branch watersheds.
For more information, visit the Natural Areas web site.
Picnic Facilities
The park features a picnic area located in a wooded area along a mountain
stream. The site has 32 picnic sites that include tables and grills.
Four group shelters are available and may be reserved throughout the year. Water
fountains, modern restrooms and two playgrounds are available in the picnic
area.
Contact the park for more information.
History
The History of Frozen Head State Park (PDF)
Other Activities
In addition to the trails, visitors may enjoy volleyball, horseshoes,
basketball, playgrounds and field sports. Recreation equipment may be checked
out, free of charge at the park office.
An outdoor stage is available for rent. It is great for weddings and reunions!
Contact the park for more information.
Hours of Operation
8 a.m. to sunset, year-round
Tour Buses
Tour buses are welcome but on the main road only. |
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