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Old Forest State Natural Area wilderness guide
State Natural Area · TN

Old Forest State Natural Area

Old Forest State Natural Area is a lush and historic woodland located in the heart of Memphis, offering a serene escape into nature with diverse flora and fauna.

State Natural Area1261+ Trails

Designation

State Natural Area

Total Wilderness Area

126

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Old Forest State Natural Area

Old Forest State Natural Area is a lush and historic woodland located in the heart of Memphis, offering a serene escape into nature with diverse flora and fauna.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Old Forest State Natural Area, located within Overton Park in Memphis, Tennessee, is a protected woodland characterized by its mature trees, some of which are over 200 years old. This 126-acre site is a remnant of the vast forests that once dominated the region. The area's biodiversity includes tulip poplars, red oaks, and hornbeam trees, alongside a rich underbrush that supports a variety of wildlife such as owls, squirrels, and migratory birds. Historically, the forest has been a subject of conservation efforts to preserve its ecological integrity. Visitors can enjoy walking the winding trails that provide an immersive experience in this urban sanctuary. Despite being surrounded by urban development, the Old Forest remains a crucial green space for recreation, educational programs, and research. It's a beloved spot for nature enthusiasts and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Field Guide · State Natural Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Old Forest State Natural Area

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Discover the Wonders of Old Forest State Natural Area★ 7.5⌖ 4 miHiking
Old Forest State Natural Area

Discover the Wonders of Old Forest State Natural Area

Explore Old Forest State Natural Area in Memphis, TN, a peaceful urban forest with diverse flora and fauna. Enjoy hiking and birdwatching on winding wooded trails. Best visited in spring and fall for ideal conditions. Moderate crowd levels make it a relaxing retreat.

Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park★ 6.3⌖ 13 miHiking
Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park

Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park

Explore Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park in Millington, TN, featuring over 13,000 acres of trails for all skill levels. Ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and fishing, this serene park offers picturesque views of the Mississippi River. Best visited in spring or fall.

Climbing at Pitchoff Mountain in Lake Placid★ 7.8⌖ 42 miClimbing
Lake Placid

Climbing at Pitchoff Mountain in Lake Placid

Explore Pitchoff Mountain near Lake Placid, NY, ideal for climbing enthusiasts. Best visited in spring and fall, this accessible climbing area offers routes for various skill levels with stunning views and adventurous vibes.

Whiteface Mountain Cross-Country Biking Trails in Lake Placid★ 7.8⌖ 42 miCross-Country Biking
Lake Placid

Whiteface Mountain Cross-Country Biking Trails in Lake Placid

Explore the Whiteface Mountain Cross-Country Biking Trails near Lake Placid, NY. Offering a variety of routes, it's perfect for adventure seekers of all levels. Enjoy breathtaking Adirondack views and challenging terrains, especially during spring and fall.

Cross-Country BikingView Details→
Serenity at Wall Doxey State Park★ 7.2⌖ 48 miCamping
Wall Doxey State Park

Serenity at Wall Doxey State Park

Visit Wall Doxey State Park near Holly Springs, MS, featuring Spring Lake for camping, hiking, and fishing. Enjoy a peaceful retreat with trails, wildlife watching, and picnicking by the serene water. Best in spring and fall for mild weather and colorful foliage.

Biking Bliss: South Campus Mountain Bike Trails★ 6.5⌖ 62 miMountain Biking
South Campus Mountain Bike Trails

Biking Bliss: South Campus Mountain Bike Trails

Explore South Campus Mountain Bike Trails in Oxford, MS. With moderate difficulty, these trails offer mountain biking through varied landscapes including dense woodlands and open fields. Adventurous riders will enjoy this scenic and accessible year-round spot.

Mountain BikingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Historic trees over 200 years old✦ Diverse bird watching opportunities✦ Scenic and serene trails quintessential for meditative walks✦ Educational signs detailing the forest's ecology and history
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Old Forest State Natural Area

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Old Forest State Natural Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Old Forest State Natural Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Old Forest State Natural Area
Park Recreation

Educational Programs

Available in Old Forest State Natural Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Old Forest State Natural Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access without any permits required

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Old Forest State Natural Area

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Nearby City Campground

Located within Memphis, providing convenient access to urban amenities and the natural area.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Old Forest State Natural Area

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Memphis
⌖ 0.34 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Memphis, Tennessee

A vibrant city offering a surprisingly dynamic range of outdoor adventures, from urban parks and trails to the mighty Mississippi River.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Augher
⌖ 8.85 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Augher, Tennessee

A quiet rural town offering peaceful access to Tennessee’s natural beauty, ideal for outdoor lovers seeking laid-back trails and scenic paddling experiences.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Bartlett
⌖ 10.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bartlett, Tennessee

A family-friendly suburban town offering easy access to parks, trails, and waterways around Memphis for casual outdoor activities and nature escapes.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Germantown
⌖ 14.98 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Germantown, Tennessee

A family-friendly suburban town with well-maintained parks, gentle hiking trails, and scenic spots ideal for biking and paddling along the Wolf River.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Millington
⌖ 15.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Millington, Tennessee

A blend of rural charm and proximity to nature, ideal for those looking for outdoor escapes near Memphis metropolitan area.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Olive Branch
⌖ 18.27 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Olive Branch, Mississippi

A welcoming suburban town offering easy access to peaceful parks and lake activities with a family-friendly outdoor atmosphere near Memphis.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Old Forest State Natural Area

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.