Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park

Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park began its life as part of the Works Progress Administration during the Great Depression of the 1930s. Since then it's played host to a slew of recreational and educational opportunities. Located on the shores of the historic Tennesee River, this storied state park provides swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking along with some great opportunities to learn about its history. 

As soon as you enter Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park, make sure you stop by the Tennessee River Folklife Interpretive Center and Museum. Positioned at the highest point in the state, it offers a detailed glimpse into the crafts and customs that have existed here throughout the centuries of occupation. Make sure to catch the video displays, as well as the preserved personal items that are built into these displays. 

Sorry pet owners, but animals are forbidden from entering any indoor structures. Visitors to Kentucky Lake can enjoy paddleboard and kayak rentals via the Eva Beach offices. Guests are also welcome to bring their small watercraft, as long as they come bearing proper registration. Gas powered motors aren't allowed, unless otherwise posted. 

If you'd like to bring your pet, they'll have to stay leashed up on the shore. Eva Beach is open to public swimming during the summer months. This area is unsupervised, so guests swim at their own risk. Pets aren't allowed in any of the waters contained inside of Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park. If you'd like to get out on the trails and have a hike. There are almost 30 miles of network in Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park. 

Most of the trails are easy to moderate in difficulty and take less than two hours to enjoy. The exceptions to this are the NBF 10-mile and 20-mile trails, which are difficult to traverse and can take as long as two days to finish. Make sure to do your homework and plan a trip that fits your abilities. Feel free to bring a dog along, as long as you keep them restrained and clean up any waste they might make.