Pickett State Forest and WMA

Site Directions: From junction of Hwy 154 and Hwy 297 north of Jamestown, travel 3.7 miles on Hwy 154 to the state park entrance and office.
Access Road to State Park -
Lat: 36.5436°N Long: -84.79983°W
Hours: state park hours are 7:30am to dark, WMA hours are daylight hours
Seasonality: year round
Fees: none

Site Description: Situated in a remote section of the upper Cumberland Plateau, Pickett State Park and WMA is known for its geological, botanical, and scenic wonders. Rhododendron thickets and geologic features are one of the highlight of this park. The state park lies within the 19,200-acre Pickett State Forest and WMA, and adjacent to the massive 120,000 acre Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, both areas containing prime wilderness country. Visitors to the park can explore large rock houses, natural sandstone bridges, scenic bluffs, and wild mountain streams. Spring brings dazzling displays of wildflowers, summer an abundance of blackberries and wild blueberries, and autumn a patchwork of colors to the countryside.

There are over 60 miles of trails through the area that lead into Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. Hikers can plan overnight trips throughout the area.

Wildlife to Watch: In summer, breeding Whip-poor-wills can be heard singing at dawn and dusk, while Hooded Warbler, Worm-eating Warbler, Wood Thrush, and Ruby-throated Hummingbirds can be found during the day. Northern rough-winged Swallows and Eastern Phoebes nest on rock faces. Salamanders are common in creeks and streams throughout the area, while endangered plants can also be found. White-tailed deer and Wild Turkey are common.

NOTE: Please refer to TWRA Hunting Guide about hunting seasons and public access dates. Access dates vary by site.

For more information:

Tennessee's Cumberland Plateau Nature Trail

Birds of Pickett State Park from eBird submissions

Pickett State Park web page

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