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Tennessee State Parks

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Tennessee
East Region
Big Ridge State Park
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BIG RIDGE STATE PARK
BIG RIDGE STATE PARK
1015 Big Ridge Road
Maynardville, Tennessee   37807

Phone: 865-992-5523
Reservations: 800-471-5305
Big Ridge State Park was one of five demonstration parks developed by the Tennessee Valley Authority in cooperation with the National Park Service and the Civilian Conservation Corps as an example of public recreation development along TVA lakeshores. The heavily forested, 3,687-acre park lies on the southern shore of TVA's Norris Lake in Union County, Tennessee.
History of the Area
Big Ridge State Park was one of five demonstration parks developed in the 1930's by the Tennessee Valley Authority in cooperation with the National Park Service and the Civilian Conservation Corp as an example of public recreation development along TVA's Norris Lake. Before the park was created, the area was heavily populated and used for agriculture.

Other notable features of the park include the Norton Gristmill built in 1825, remnants of Sharp's Station Fort construction in the late 1700's, and Indian Rock where a plaque commemorates the death of Peter Graves, a settler of Sharp's Station. Graves was attacked by Indians at this spot. Also, the park has several notable structures built by the Civilian Conservation Corp.
Meeting Rooms
The 22-foot x 40-foot recreation hall can hold up to 70 people depending on seating arrangement. The hall has a small kitchen with a stove/oven and a refrigerator.

Cabins
The park has 19 one-bedroom rustic cabins available from April 1 through October 31 capable of accommodating six persons. Bedrooms contain two double beds and a sofa sleeper in the living room. Cabins have hardwood floors and screened-in porches. There is no air-conditioning. Five cabins are located on the lakeside. Fourteen sit on the ridge. Cabins are fully equipped with linens stove, refrigerator kitchen hardware and grill. Fireplace is available and firewood is provided seasonally. There are no televisions or phones. Please call for our pet policy. Reservations may be made up to two years in advance and should be made through the park office.
Camping
Big Ridge has 50 campsites on or near Norris Lake to accommodate RV's, trailers, and tent campers. RV campsites have a soft gravel pad will accommodate a unit up to 35 feet. Each site has water and 30-amp electrical hookups, picnic table and grill. A dumping station is provided, as well as two bathhouses with restrooms and hot shower facilities. Bathhouses are closed during the off season from November 1 to March 31.
Swimming
A sandy beach next to Big Ridge Lake provides swimming enjoyment from Memorial Day through Labor Day, 8:00a.m. - 8:00 p.m. daily. An enclosed, concrete-bottomed area is provided for children. Swimming is free of charge. There is no lifeguard on duty, swimming is at your own risk.

Fishing
Enjoy lake fishing year round anywhere from the shore of Big Ridge Lake except the swimming beach. Expect to catch a variety of fish such as bluegill, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass and crappie. The boat dock at Big Ridge park is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Canoe, paddleboat and rowboat rentals are available on the 49-acre Big Ridge Lake. Visitors may use their own electric trolling motors on park rowboats. Gasoline outboards are not allowed on Big Ridge Lake. Fishing boats, ski boats and wave runners can be launched at the boat ramp on Norris Lake. No access to boat ramp at Norris Lake during winter months.

State license required for individuals between 13 and 65 years of age.


Location
Big Ridge State Park is located near Clinton, Corryton and Knoxville
Nearby Parks

Picnicking
Big Ridge has three covered picnic shelters, each capable of accommodating 25 - 30 people. The shelters may be reserved for a fee. Please call the park office for reservations. If not rented, shelters may be used free of charge, on a first-come, first-serve basis. Each shelter is equipped with a grill and picnic tables. Waters spigots are located conveniently nearby. Open picnic areas with tables and grills are also available free to charge. The Recreation Hall also provides a picnic area and accommodates 70 people and is available to rent. Each shelter is equipped with a grill and picnic tables. Water spigots are located conveniently nearby.

Trails
Over 15 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to very rugged. Trails travel along dry ridges, lush hollows, old roadbeds, lakeshores, and beside cemeteries and remnants of early settlements. Hiking is the only activity allowed on trails and restricted to horses and bicycles. Trails are open year round and overnight camping is allowed on designated backcountry campsites by permit only.
Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts can explore 15 miles of trails, but be aware that some are quite challenging.

The park's terrain is hilly and rugged - caution should always be taken.

Mountain biking here requires a moderate to high fitness level due to the steep inclines and rough paths.

Lake Trail offers an easier option for less experienced cyclists or those seeking a more leisurely ride.

Remember helmets when cycling; safety first!

Nighttime riding isn't permitted in order to ensure visitor safety on these complex routes.

Ensure your bike has good brakes as sudden descents may occur along certain tracks within this area.

Be prepared with water and snacks since there aren't many facilities once you leave the main areas of activity.

Check weather forecasts before setting out - adverse conditions could make pathways slippery or muddy.
Nature Programs
Seasonal Interpretive Rangers provide free weekly activities for the entire family during the summer months including guided hikes, movies, campfires, arts and crafts, nature programs, and organized sports activities.

Wildlife Presentation Salamander Hunt Creek Critters Backcountry Basics Campfire Owl Prowl Bat Watch Trees Nature Crafts Nature Games Native Plants for landscaping Wildflower Walks Tracks and Signs Guided Hikes
Birding
Birdwatchers can spot various species such as the Red-eyed Vireo, Eastern Towhee and Wood Thrush. The park's diverse habitats attract migratory birds like warblers during spring and fall. Waterfowl are common on the lake in winter months while summer brings nesting songbirds.


Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
June 24 rest rooms showers by Kathy
park review stars; one to five I do not believe I have ever been in a bathroom;shower that was so filthy would rather bathe in the lake ;gross
June 11 Love this place!
park review stars; one to five We love to camp here and always have a great time. Bath houses need a good cleaning but the campsites are great!
August 30 Best park ever by teasuaj
park review stars; one to five I loved camping here. The handicap site was amazing. I was near the bathhouse and within walking distrance with no steps. The bathroom was clean and had good water pressure and hot water. They have plenty of activities available. The swimming area and boating was outstanding. The staff was so kind. I only wish they had pictures so everyone can see the handicap playground and the cabins.
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Area Campgrounds
Fox Inn Campground
2423 Andersonville Highway
Clinton, TN
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Smitty's Fishen Hole
866 Ridge Circle Rd
Andersonville, TN
(865) 494-8336
C R Outfitters
2822 Andersonville Hwy
Clinton, TN
(865) 494-2305
Cumberland Mountain Sporting Goods
3328 Andersonville Hwy
Andersonville, TN
(865) 494-7767
Area Cabins and Lodges
Stardust Marina
149 Stardust Ln
Andersonville, TN
(865) 494-7641
Harbour Club at Stardust II
149 Stardust Ln
Andersonville, TN
(865) 494-0555
Norris Lake Retreat Ctr
1105 Big Creek Rd
La Follette, TN
(423) 566-5007
Greens at Deerfield The
488 S Chapman Rd
La Follette, TN
(423) 566-0040
Norris Lake Retreat Center
1105 Big Creek Rd
La Follette, TN
(423) 566-5007
Deerfield Resort: Golf Course
488 S Chapman Rd
La Follette, TN
(423) 566-0040
Greens at Deerfield The
161 The Clubhouse Dr
La Follette, TN
(423) 566-0040
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
From I-75 exit 122, take Hwy. 61 east for approximately 12 miles. Park entrance is on the left. The park is located between the cities of Andersonville and Maynardville.
Nearby Parks

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