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Fort Pillow State Park adventures

Fort Pillow State Park Adventures

Fort Pillow State Park is a historic and natural area along the Mississippi River in Tennessee, offering rich Civil War history and diverse recreational opportunities including hiking, fishing, and camping.

1,651
Acres Protected
7
Miles of Trails
50,000+
Annual Visitors
1970
Year Established

About Fort Pillow State Park

 

Fort Pillow State Park is located on the banks of the Mississippi River in Lauderdale County, Tennessee. The park is historically significant for being the site of the 1864 Battle of Fort Pillow during the American Civil War, where one of the war's bloodiest confrontations occurred. The park's landscape features rolling hills leading down to the river, with hardwood forests, wetlands, and river bluffs providing habitat for a variety of wildlife including deer, wild turkeys, and numerous bird species. Visitors can explore historic ruins, interpretive exhibits, and a reconstructed fort area that provide insight into the park’s military history. Alongside its historical significance, Fort Pillow State Park offers outdoor enthusiasts opportunities for hiking across several trails that wind through the forested hills and riverbanks. Anglers and boaters enjoy access to the Mississippi River, which supports fishing for catfish, bass, and crappie. The park also has picnic areas, a campground with modern amenities, and spaces for birdwatching and wildlife photography. The combination of scenic beauty, rich cultural history, and outdoor activities makes Fort Pillow State Park a destination appealing to history buffs, families, and nature lovers alike.

Highlights

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Site of the historic 1864 Battle of Fort Pillow with interpretive displays

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Scenic overlooks of the Mississippi River and its bluffs

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Diverse hardwood forests supporting abundant wildlife

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Seven miles of hiking trails including river bluff viewpoints

Notable Natural Features

Fort Pillow Battlefield

Preserved site featuring reconstructed fortifications and monuments commemorating the 1864 battle.

Mississippi River Overlooks

High bluff vantage points offering expansive views of the river and surrounding floodplains.

Interpretive Center and Museum

Provides educational exhibits on the Civil War history, the battle, and the local ecosystem.