Cumberland Mountain State Park, Tennessee
May 13, 2015We are planning a one-nighter at Cumberland Mountain State Park before moving on in the morning. It’s a nice park, but we have places to go & people to see down the road.
Cumberland Mountain State Park: Site #136, this site has water & electric hookups, dump station available, 153 sites, 1791 foot elevation. May 13th - 14th.
Overall Experience:
Cumberland Mountain State Park is a 1,720-acre state park located in Crossville, Tennessee. The park is on the Cumberland Plateau and has various recreational activities and amenities for visitors.
Byrd Lake
The main attraction of the park is Byrd Lake, a man-made lake formed in the 1930s by blocking Byrd Creek. The lake offers boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities, with a designated area for swimming and a beach. If you prefer pool swimming, there's also an Olympic-sized swimming pool that opens during the summer months.
Outdoor Activities
- Hiking Trails: The park boasts an extensive network of hiking trails suitable for all levels. Whether you want an easy stroll through nature or a challenging hike, there's a trail for you. Two popular choices are the Centennial Trail and the Overnight Trail, which even allows backcountry camping.
- Sports Facilities: Tennis enthusiasts can enjoy playing a match on the park's tennis courts. If disc golf is your thing, there's a course available too. And for golf lovers, don't miss out on the Bear Trace at Cumberland Mountain, an 18-hole golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus.
Overnight Visits
If you want to extend your stay and fully immerse yourself in the park experience, Cumberland Mountain State Park offers various accommodation options:
- Campsites:
There are 145 tent and RV campsites scattered across different areas of the park. Each campsite has hookups available and access to restrooms and showers. - Rental Cabins: For those who prefer a bit more comfort, there are rental cabins that can accommodate up to six people.
Dining and Events
Hungry after all the activities? No worries! Cumberland Mountain State Park has a restaurant within the park where you can grab a meal or refreshments. And if you're planning a special event or gathering, there's a recreation hall that you can rent.
Nature and History
One of the remarkable aspects of Cumberland Mountain State Park is its abundant natural and cultural history:
- Natural Diversity: The park is home to various plant and animal species, including some rare and endangered ones. You can learn more about them through interpretive programs and exhibits.
- Historical Significance: During the Great Depression, the park served as a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) campsite. Exploring the remains of the CCC camp allows visitors to understand its role in the CCC program.