Displaying items by tag: Tennessee State Parks
Treat mom to a delicious buffet at one of eight state park restaurants
NASHVILLE – Treat mom to a special day out at one of eight Tennessee State Park restaurants this Mother’s Day – a perfect time for family and friends to enjoy great food in a beautiful setting.
Tennessee State Parks is pleased to announce that all eight state park restaurants will be serving a delicious Mother’s Day Buffet on Sunday, May 13. Buffet selections and prices will vary, ranging from $12.95 to $15.95. Group reservations are recommended.
The Mother’s Day Buffet will be available beginning at 11 a.m. until closing at these state park restaurants:
· Cumberland Mountain State Park -- (931) 484-7186
· David Crockett State Park (Lawrenceburg) -- (931) 762-9541
· Fall Creek Falls State Park -- (423) 881-5241
· Henry Horton State Park -- (931) 364-2222
· Montgomery Bell State Park -- (615) 797-3101
· Natchez Trace State Park -- (731) 968-8176
· Paris Landing State Park -- (731) 642-4311
· Pickwick Landing State Park -- (731) 689-3135
Tennessee's 53 state parks offer diverse natural, recreational and cultural experiences for individuals, families or business and professional groups. State park features range from pristine natural areas to 18-hole championship golf courses. For a free brochure about Tennessee State Parks, call toll free at 1-888-867-2757. For additional information, visit our Web site at www.tnstateparks.com.
Published in
Food
NFL Play60 Campaign Encourages Young People to Lead Healthy Lifestyles
Nashville – This spring Tennessee State Parks and the Tennessee Titans are partnering in a number of unique ways as part of the NFL Play60 effort, encouraging kids to stay active, eat healthy and become more physically fit – all while enjoying one of Tennessee’s great 53 state parks.
Tennessee is the first state park system to participate in the NFL Play60 campaign, which features outreach into local schools and communities to engage children with messages and activities that promote outdoor experiences, the natural world, healthy lifestyles and fun.
The Tennessee Titans and Tennessee State Parks joined Gov. Bill Haslam for a visit to LP Field, in recognition of the NFL Play60 campaign and its success in promoting healthy lifestyles among Tennessee’s youth.
“I want to thank Gov. Haslam, the Tennessee Titans and the Tennessee Department of Health for helping us educate communities and students on the importance of staying fit and healthy,” said Environment and Conservation Commissioner Bob Martineau. “The NFL Play60 campaign has been a great success for Tennessee and a perfect partnership for Tennessee State Parks and all they have to offer. We also appreciate the Titans’ own Jared Cook helping out with our celebration today.”
A highlight of the local NFL Play60 project includes 30 school visits planned throughout the state, pairing T-Rac, the Tennessee Titans award-winning mascot, with Ramble the Raccoon, Tennessee State Parks’ own beloved mascot. The school program is action-packed, with a host and a uniformed Tennessee State Parks’ ranger on hand and includes interactive video footage set up to resemble a live “remote” with Titans Head Coach Mike Munchak and several of the Titans players.
The program also includes a video of T-Rac and Ramble visiting several Tennessee State Parks, as they hike, rappel, bike, canoe and fish. At the end of each visit, T-Rac hands out autographed cards that promote Tennessee State Parks’ Junior Ranger programs, engaging students to remain committed to being physically fit throughout the summer months and to sign up for one of the many opportunities offered by state parks.
The Titans will be taking the “show on the road” beginning April 30 through May 11, as part of this year’s annual Titans Caravan.
“My friend Ramble the Raccoon has always loved the great outdoors and staying active, but he needs to Play 60 in Tennessee State Parks to make sure he’s staying healthy and in shape,” said T-Rac. “With a little encouragement from me and several of my Titans friends, Ramble has hit the trails harder and stronger. He is committed to losing 75 pounds this spring and summer – all in conjunction with Tennessee State Parks’ 75th Anniversary, which they celebrate this year. I encourage everyone to join Ramble on his ‘get fit’ quest and visit a Tennessee state park near you!”
Support for Tennessee State Parks’ ongoing efforts to encourage healthy lifestyles among the state’s youth is due, in part, to a Project Diabetes grant awarded by the Tennessee Department of Health. The grant addresses childhood obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and poor health indicators through a variety of statewide programs.
“As children have become more inactive, childhood obesity and diabetes continue to rise,” Martineau said. “Tennessee State Parks’ Junior Ranger programs are working to help reverse these trends, while providing fun and educational opportunities.”
In addition to the Titans NFL Play60 partnership, another function of the Project Diabetes grant is Tennessee State Parks’ Junior Ranger programs, which work to help children find their own connection with nature, emphasizing fun, interactive exploration – while becoming more active and developing healthier lifestyle habits. In 2011, the program was piloted at 12 state parks. This year, more than 400 Junior Ranger programs will be held from May to September at all 53 state parks, attracting nearly 10,000 participants. An adventure guide that details Tennessee State Parks’ various Junior Ranger programs can be found at www.tnjuniorranger.com.
This year, Tennessee State Parks will unveil several more components as part of the Tennessee Department of Health’s Project Diabetes grant, including a state park passport program and a family challenge.
In addition to the Tennessee Titans and Tennessee State Parks, other partnerships and programs include the Dairy Council’s Fuel Up to Play 60 program and the American Heart Association’s Jump Rope for Life.
Published in
Health and Fitness
njoy Food, Friends and Family at Eight Tennessee State Parks this Easter Sunday
NASHVILLE – Join Tennessee State Parks this Easter Sunday – combining great food with the great outdoors – and the perfect place to celebrate with family and friends.
All eight Tennessee State Parks restaurants will be open on Sunday, April 8, 2012, serving a traditional Easter Sunday Buffet. Buffet selections and prices will vary from $12.95 to $15.95. Price does not include drink, tax or gratuity. Special prices for kids and seniors over 62 also are available. The Easter Buffet will begin at 11 a.m. and will remain open until closing at state park restaurants across Tennessee.
Tennessee State Park restaurants serving the Easter Buffet include:
If you want to treat yourself or your family to an Easter weekend or an overnight stay, the following Tennessee State Park inns are offering a variety of special packages from one- and two-night stays and featuring meals for two, along with other amenities. Easter weekend packages range from $75 to $150 depending on the location and length of stay, excluding tax and gratuity. For reservations or additional information, please contact the inn directly at:
Tennessee has 53 state parks and 82 natural areas with a wide range of recreational opportunities, including camping, hiking, swimming, golf, boating, whitewater rafting and more. The state parks system includes resort parks with inns, conference centers and restaurants. Tennessee State Parks and natural areas also play an important role in environmental protection of ecologically significant land and preservation of cultural and historic sites. To learn more about what’s available at Tennessee State Parks, visit the Web site at www.tnstateparks.com.
Published in
Food
The year 2012 marks Tennessee State Parks’ 75th Anniversary and to kick off this year-long commemoration, each state park will host its own special hike in the first few days of the New Year.
“We are very excited to announce Tennessee State Parks’ 75th Anniversary and felt this series of First Hikes would be a fitting way to commence the various celebrations slated throughout the year and across the state,” said Environment and Conservation Commissioner Bob Martineau. “Following the old Gaelic tradition of ‘first footing,’ the First Hikes are meant to encourage all Tennesseans to hit the trail and get 2012 started on the right foot.”
From Meeman-Shelby to Fall Creek Falls to Roan Mountain and every state park in between, the 2012 First Hikes are designed for all ages and abilities. Some hikes will be approximately one mile in length and tailored for novice hikers, while others are lengthier and geared toward more experienced hikers. For a more in-depth look into planned First Hikes in your area, please visit www.tn.gov/environment/parks/firsthikes/.
In addition to the First Hikes slated for early January, Tennessee State Parks will host a variety of special events throughout 2012 and has unveiled a specially-designed 75th Anniversary logo – reminiscent of the ranger uniform patches of yesteryear.
The Tennessee State Parks system was established through legislation in 1937, and those laws – with modifications and additions over the years – remain the framework for park operations today. As in most states, Tennessee began in cooperation with federal programs that instigated individual parks. Later, Depression era recovery programs gave a boost to the idea and the possibility of creating parks. The Civilian Conservation Corps and Works Progress Administration worked on land conservation, but also delved further into the actual planning and construction of what would become the first of 53 Tennessee State Parks.
Today, there is a state park within an hour’s drive of just about anywhere in Tennessee. A 2009 University of Tennessee study highlights the positive economic impacts that state parks provide local communities, particularly in rural areas of the state. The study found that for every dollar spent on trips to Tennessee State Parks, an additional $1.11 of economic activity was generated throughout the state. When the direct and indirect expenditures were combined, the impact of Tennessee State Parks to the state’s economy was $1.5 billion in total industry output, supporting more than 18,600 jobs.
“Our vision statement highlights the inherent value of our natural environment, along with the value of the many physical reminders of Tennessee’s past,” added Deputy Commissioner Brock Hill. “Tennessee’s state parks have played such an important role in our history, and they play a critical role in our health and quality of life, which will benefit Tennesseans well into the future.”
Tennessee’s state parks deliver a rich fabric of natural landscapes, wild places, preserved ecologies, outdoor recreational opportunities and protected historic scenes and resources – together representing the heritage of Tennessee in the landscape.
Tennessee's 53 state parks and 82 state natural areas offer diverse natural, recreational and cultural experiences for individuals, families or business and professional groups. State park features range from pristine natural areas to 18-hole championship golf courses. For a free brochure about Tennessee State Parks, call toll free at 1-888-867-2757. For upcoming events in connection with the 75th Anniversary of Tennessee State Parks, please visit the state parks website at www.tnstateparks.com.
Published in
Green Living
Make plans now to ring in 2012 with a number of special New Year’s Eve celebrations at Tennessee State Parks inns and restaurants, including dinner buffets, holiday room discounts, music and dancing!
New Year’s Eve dinner will be served Dec. 31 at Cumberland Mountain, Fall Creek Falls, Montgomery Bell, Paris Landing and Pickwick Landing state parks. This special dinner will include a variety of entrees, dessert and non-alcoholic sparkling beverages. Seating times and prices will vary by park, and reservations are encouraged. Fall Creek Falls, Montgomery Bell, Paris Landing and Pickwick Landing also will be offering a New Year’s Day Brunch as an additional holiday dining option.
In addition, the park inns at Fall Creek Falls, Montgomery Bell, Paris Landing and Pickwick Landing are offering special room packages for the holiday. Details for individual park festivities across the state include:
East Tennessee
Cumberland Mountain will serve its Traditional Southern Smoked Rib Buffet on Dec. 31, for lunch from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and for dinner from 4 to 8 p.m. The buffet will feature smoked pork ribs, pulled pork with BBQ, real mashed potatoes with roast beef and gravy, home-style baked beans, seasoned turnip greens and delicious creamed-style corn; and for dessert, cobblers and homemade cakes – just to name a few! Please contact Cumberland Mountain State Park for additional information at (931) 484-7186.
Middle Tennessee
New Year’s on the Mountain has become a tradition at Fall Creek Falls and will be held Dec. 31 through Jan. 1. The New Year’s Eve all-you-can-eat buffet will be served from 4 to 9 p.m. Children ages 5 to 12 pay only half price and children four and under can eat at no charge, both with an adult buffet (prices do not include beverage, tax or gratuity). The buffet will feature chef-carved prime rib, Southern-fried chicken, BBQ ribs, fried and marinated Gulf shrimp – in addition to assorted vegetables and salads and the park’s famous dessert bar. A New Year’s Day Brunch will be served from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Inn at Fall Creek Falls also is offering a special New Year’s on the Mountain Package for only $75.99 for a standard room. Enjoy the beauty of the Cumberland Mountains with great food and a romantic backdrop. The package includes a one-night stay in a standard room, a special New Year’s Day Brunch and gift basket. A 2 p.m. checkout time will be offered for late-night revelers. All rooms are subject to availability and reservations are required. Contact the park directly at (800) 250-8610 for additional information and reservations.
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Montgomery Bell State Park is offering two great New Year’s Eve packages. For those wishing to ring in the New Year in an intimate environment, Montgomery Bell is offering two special inn packages. For only $105 (including taxes and gratuity) Package #1 includes an inn room, a New Year’s Eve candlelight dinner for two, a special room gift and a 2 p.m. checkout. For an additional $30, Package #2 includes all of the above in addition to a New Year’s Day brunch for two.
Dinner will be served at Montgomery Bell Dec. 31 from 6 to 9 p.m. and will include several four-course menu choices – such as shrimp cocktail, delicious salads, ribeye, grilled salmon or pork tenderloin medallions, assorted sides and desserts. Start 2012 off with Montgomery Bell’s tranquil New Year’s Day Brunch overlooking Acorn Lake from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Jan. 1. Please contact Montgomery Bell State Park for reservations or for additional information at (800) 250-8613.
West Tennessee
Ring in the New Year at Paris Landing State Park with the New Year’s Eve 2012 Celebration! Spend Dec. 31 enjoying the beauty of Paris Landing State Park and as the sun sets, tour the festive light displays sponsored by groups in the local community.
Later that evening, guests can put on their dancing shoes and groove to the Syndicate of Soul band. Event tickets are $25 per person or $200 a table, with proceeds benefiting the Friends of Paris Landing. Tickets can be purchased at the downtown and Lake-area branches of the Foundation Bank, Fish Tale Lodge and the Paris Winery.
To make the evening even more special, take advantage of Paris Landing’s New Year’s Eve Dinner and Room Package. The $129 package includes one double-occupancy inn room for two, two New Year’s Eve dinner buffets and two New Year’s Day breakfast buffets.
The New Year’s Eve dinner buffet will be served Dec. 31 from 4:30 to 9 p.m. and will include chef-carved beef brisket, sliced stuffed pork loin, fried shrimp, Southern-fried catfish, assorted vegetables, salads and desserts. The New Year’s Day breakfast buffet on Jan. 1 will be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Both buffets are open to the public, while tickets for the New Year’s Eve dance are sold separately. Please contact (800) 250-8614 or (731) 642-4311 for reservations or additional information.
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“Moonlight and Magnolia” is the theme of Pickwick Landing State Park’s New Year’s Eve celebration on Dec. 31. A $250 couples’ package includes inn room accommodations, dinner, dancing and a midnight toast. Live entertainment provided by Magi, party favors and a delicious New Year’s Day Brunch will complete the festivities. Co-sponsored by Team Hardin County, formal attire requested. For more information and to make reservations, call (800) 552-3866 or (731) 925-8181.
An all-you-can-eat dinner buffet will be served at Pickwick Landing from 4:30 to 9 p.m. on Dec. 31, featuring roast beef, pork tenderloin, salad bar and a variety of vegetables, side items and desserts. On Jan. 1, the New Year’s Day breakfast buffet will include everything from country ham to roasted chicken and black-eye peas for good luck!
Tennessee's 53 state parks offer diverse natural, recreational and cultural experiences for individuals, families, or business and professional groups. State park features range from pristine natural areas to 18-hole championship golf courses. For a free brochure about Tennessee State Parks, call 1-888-867-2757. For additional information, visit the Web site at www.tnstateparks.com.
Published in
Local News
Bicycle enthusiasts across the state are already gearing up for the annual Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee, which will kick off its 22nd year with a seven-day ride beginning Sept. 11 and will feature a loop through some of Middle Tennessee’s most stunning landscapes.
Originating at Montgomery Bell State Park, this year’s route will feature a combination of rolling hills, valleys and some flat terrain. Cyclists can expect to experience beautiful, rural Tennessee scenery and interesting back roads along the way, including the Natchez Trace Parkway and visits to several Tennessee State Parks such as Dunbar Cave.
“Highlighting the pastures and farmland of Middle Tennessee, this year’s BRAT will not have the long climbs that were more prevalent on last year’s route,” said Ryan Forbess, director of the Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee. “In terms of effort level, the 2011 BRAT will include a balance of some long-distance rides and some shorter distance days – designed to challenge our expert cyclists, while accommodating recreational riders."
Riders will camp overnight at four Tennessee State Parks along the route, including David Crockett, Henry Horton, Montgomery Bell and Paris Landing. The city of Clarksville will host one overnight stay at Swan Lake Park. As part of this year’s BRAT ride, one layover day is planned on Sept. 14 at Montgomery Bell State Park, giving cyclists an opportunity to do more sightseeing – including nature hikes and canoeing. New this year is a three-day ride option for those who aren't ready for a weeklong tour or have limited vacation time.
The event will begin with check-in at Montgomery Bell State Park starting at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 10, followed by a rider’s meeting at 6:30 p.m. On Sunday, riders will be introduced to the route with a scenic 84-mile ride to David Crockett State Park. Other details include:
Costs for riders range from $355 for the full, seven-day ride to $50 for a single-day rider. There is a $125 non-rider charge for those using alternative transportation.
All costs include accommodations and food, excluding single-day riders.
Each registered participant will receive a commemorative 2011 BRAT T-shirt.
Daily mileage ranges from 84 miles on the first and longest leg of the route to 52 miles on the final day.
“While the BRAT is not a race, it is a significant ride that requires preparation,” Forbess advised. “Even experienced riders appreciate the support staff we offer along the route that can provide assistance and transportation for those who encounter problems or simply can’t complete that day’s mileage. Our goal is to provide an outstanding experience for participants of all ages.”
The 22nd Annual Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee is sponsored by Tennessee State Parks, Whole Foods, Grand Fondo Cycles, the Tennessee Department of Transportation, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and Keep Tennessee Beautiful. A portion of the event’s proceeds will benefit the Cumberland Trail Conference and the Tennessee State Park Rangers Association, both non-profit organizations.
"This annual ride is a unique opportunity for cyclists and one of Tennessee State Parks most time-honored events,” added Forbess. "Now is the time to begin planning for the BRAT and we are using new ways to communicate information to riders, engaging participation – making it easier than ever to take part in this great event. Be sure to check out our new Facebook page.”
For registration information or more details about the Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee, please visit the main webpage at www.tnstateparks.com/BRAT or the Bicycle Ride Across Tennessee on Facebook. Riders with questions are encouraged to contact Ryan Forbess via e-mail at
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
.
Published in
Local News
Join Tennessee State Parks this Easter Sunday -- combining great food with the great outdoors -- and the perfect place to celebrate with family and friends.
All eight Tennessee State Parks restaurants will be open on Sunday, April 24, 2011, serving a traditional Easter Sunday Buffet. Buffet selections and prices will vary from $12.95 to $14.95. Price does not include drink, tax or gratuity. Special prices for kids and seniors over 62 also are available. The Easter Buffet will begin at 11 a.m. and will remain open until closing at state park restaurants across Tennessee.
Tennessee State Park restaurants serving the Easter Buffet include:
Cumberland Mountain State Park -- (931) 484-7186
David Crockett State Park (Lawrenceburg) -- (931) 762-9541
Fall Creek Falls State Park -- (423) 881-5241
Henry Horton State Park -- (931) 364-2222
Montgomery Bell State Park -- (615) 797-3101
Natchez Trace State Park -- (731) 968-8176
Paris Landing State Park -- (731) 642-4311
Pickwick Landing State Park -- (731) 689-3135
If you want to treat yourself or your family to an Easter weekend or an overnight stay, the following Tennessee State Park inns are offering a variety of special packages from one- and two-night stays and featuring meals for two, along with other amenities. Easter weekend packages range from $75 to $150 depending on the location and length of stay, excluding tax and gratuity. For reservations or additional information, please contact the inn directly at:
Fall Creek Falls State Park -- (800) 250-8610
Montgomery Bell State Park -- (800) 250-8613
Tennessee has 53 state parks and 81 natural areas with a wide range of recreational opportunities, including camping, hiking, swimming, golf, boating, whitewater rafting and more. The state parks system includes resort parks with inns, conference centers and restaurants. Tennessee State Parks and natural areas also play an important role in environmental protection of ecologically significant land and preservation of cultural and historic sites. To learn more about what’s available at Tennessee State Parks, visit the Web site at www.tnstateparks.com.
Published in
Community Cares
NASHVILLE - There’s no sweeter way to spend St. Valentine’s Day than with a visit to one of Tennessee’s State Parks. All eight state park restaurants will be open Monday, Feb. 14, serving a special Valentine’s Day meal and special overnight packages also are available at Tennessee State Park’s six incredible inns.
If you just can’t wait to spend time with that special someone, the restaurants at Henry Horton State Park and Pickwick Landing will offer a Valentine’s Day dinner on Saturday, Feb. 12, along with the restaurant at David Crockett State Park on Sunday, Feb. 13.
A romantic candlelight dinner package for two runs from $19.90 to $44.95, depending on the location. Prices do not include beverage, tax and gratuity. Dinner reservations are available from 4 p.m. until closing at most of the eight Tennessee State Park’s restaurants listed below. For dinner reservations or additional information, please contact the park directly at:
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Cumberland Mountain State Park -- (931) 484-7186
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David Crockett State Park (Lawrenceburg) -- (931) 762-9541
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Fall Creek Falls State Park -- (423) 881-5241
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Henry Horton State Park -- (931) 364-2222
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Montgomery Bell State Park -- (615) 797-3101
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Natchez Trace State Park -- (731) 968-8176
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Paris Landing State Park -- (731) 642-4311
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Pickwick Landing State Park -- (731) 689-3135
If you want to treat your Valentine to a romantic weekend or overnight stay, the following Tennessee State Park inns are offering a variety of special room packages, including a delicious St. Valentine’s dinner for two and other amenities. Prices for one- or two-night packages vary, depending on the location. For room reservations or additional information, please contact the inn directly at:
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Fall Creek Falls State Park -- (800) 250-8610
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Henry Horton State Park -- (800) 250-8612
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Montgomery Bell State Park -- (800) 250-8613
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Natchez Trace State Park -- (800) 250-8616
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Paris Landing State Park -- (800) 250-8614
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Pickwick Landing State Park -- (800) 250-8615
Tennessee's 53 state parks offer diverse natural, recreational and cultural experiences for individuals, families or business and professional groups. State park features include six conference centers and numerous recreational opportunities, including golf courses and many pristine natural areas. For a free brochure about Tennessee State Parks, call toll free 1-888-867-2757. For additional information, please visit www.tnstateparks.com.
If you just can’t wait to spend time with that special someone, the restaurants at Henry Horton State Park and Pickwick Landing will offer a Valentine’s Day dinner on Saturday, Feb. 12, along with the restaurant at David Crockett State Park on Sunday, Feb. 13.
A romantic candlelight dinner package for two runs from $19.90 to $44.95, depending on the location. Prices do not include beverage, tax and gratuity. Dinner reservations are available from 4 p.m. until closing at most of the eight Tennessee State Park’s restaurants listed below. For dinner reservations or additional information, please contact the park directly at:
*
Cumberland Mountain State Park -- (931) 484-7186
*
David Crockett State Park (Lawrenceburg) -- (931) 762-9541
*
Fall Creek Falls State Park -- (423) 881-5241
*
Henry Horton State Park -- (931) 364-2222
*
Montgomery Bell State Park -- (615) 797-3101
*
Natchez Trace State Park -- (731) 968-8176
*
Paris Landing State Park -- (731) 642-4311
*
Pickwick Landing State Park -- (731) 689-3135
If you want to treat your Valentine to a romantic weekend or overnight stay, the following Tennessee State Park inns are offering a variety of special room packages, including a delicious St. Valentine’s dinner for two and other amenities. Prices for one- or two-night packages vary, depending on the location. For room reservations or additional information, please contact the inn directly at:
*
Fall Creek Falls State Park -- (800) 250-8610
*
Henry Horton State Park -- (800) 250-8612
*
Montgomery Bell State Park -- (800) 250-8613
*
Natchez Trace State Park -- (800) 250-8616
*
Paris Landing State Park -- (800) 250-8614
*
Pickwick Landing State Park -- (800) 250-8615
Tennessee's 53 state parks offer diverse natural, recreational and cultural experiences for individuals, families or business and professional groups. State park features include six conference centers and numerous recreational opportunities, including golf courses and many pristine natural areas. For a free brochure about Tennessee State Parks, call toll free 1-888-867-2757. For additional information, please visit www.tnstateparks.com.
Published in
Local News
