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Pickett State Park |
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Situated in a remote section of the upper Cumberland Mountains, the 17,372-acre
Pickett State Park and Forest possess a combination of scenic, botanical and
geological wonders found nowhere else in Tennessee. Of particular interest are
the uncommon rock formations, natural bridges, numerous caves and remains of
ancient Indian occupation. Some say Pickett is second only to the Great Smoky
Mountains in botanical diversity. The park is adjacent to the massive Big South
Fork National River and Recreation Area, with more than 100,000 acres of prime
wilderness country.
Boating
Rowboats and canoes are available for rent at the park boat dock. No
personally-owned boats or motors are permitted.
Tennessee Boating Regulations (exit TDEC)
Cabins
Pickett features five chalets, five rustic stone cottages and five wooden
cottages ideally suited for vacations. Each is completely equipped for
housekeeping including appliances, all cooking and serving utensils and linens.
Chalets are open year-round.
Reservations should be made through the park office and can be made up to one
year in advance.
Camping
Forty campsites are available, each with tables and grills. Twenty sites have
electrical and water hookups. The campground is served with a modern bathhouse
and a dump station. Sites are available only on a first-come, first-served
basis, and maximum stay limit is two weeks.
Backcountry camping is available. Contact the park for more information.
Fishing
Year-round fishing is available at Pickett's delightful, 15-acre Arch Lake.
Fishermen need a trout stamp and a valid Tennessee fishing license for persons
over 16 years of age.
Tennessee Fishing Regulations (exit TDEC)
Tennessee State Parks fishing policies
Group Camping
The group camp consists of camper cabins, bathhouse, kitchen and dining lodge.
It is completely equipped for food preparation and serving. Campers need only
provide linens, food, medical and sanitary supplies and staff. The camp will
accommodate up to 144 persons.
The equipped kitchen features walk in refrigerator and freezer, ice maker,
microwave, Bunn coffeemaker, dishwasher and industrial grill and oven.
During the summer months it is usually rented on a weekly basis only, but is
available for weekend use at other times. Reservations must be made through the
park office.
Hiking Trails
Hiking trails are open year-round. Overnight camping is allowed on some trails.
Remember, all plants, animals and natural features are protected. Please leave
them for others to enjoy!
Pickett Trails:
Lake Trail-2 1/2 mile loop
Lake View Trail-3/4 mile-one way
Ridge Trail-3 mile loop
Bluff Loop-1 mile-one way
Ladder Trail-1 mile loop
Natural Bridge Trail-1 1/4 mile loop
Hazard Cave Trail-2 1/2 mile loop
Indian Rockhouse Trail-1/4 mile-one way
Island Trail- 1/2 mile loop
Horseback Riding
There are 6 stalls available for boarding horses. There is a minimal charge.
Although pack animals are not allowed in Pickett State Park, the park is
adjacent to Big South Fork National River and Recreational Area where pack
animals are allowed.
Picnic Facilities
Pickett has 144 picnic tables and grills around beautiful Arch Lake. Restrooms
and drinking fountains are provided. Three picnic shelters accommodating up to
50 people each are available for large family or other group use. Shelters may
be reserved up to one year in advance.
Contact the park for reservations or more information.
Swimming
Pickett's beautiful, cliff-lined, sandy swimming beach is one of the most
picturesque in the South. The beach is served by a bathhouse. Swimming is
available from Memorial Day through mid-August. Please contact the park for
specific closing dates. A lifeguard is on duty during the open season.
Special Events
Old Timers Day Music Festival is held in September. It is a day long jamming and
buck dancing event, including feature ballad singing, old time fiddling and
bluegrass. Contact the park for more information.
Tour Buses
Most roads inside the park are accessible to tour buses. Call the park for more
information. |
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