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Cordell Hull State Park wilderness guide
State Park · TN

Cordell Hull State Park

Cordell Hull State Park in Tennessee offers a rich blend of outdoor recreation on the shores of Cordell Hull Lake, making it a favored destination for camping, fishing, and hiking enthusiasts.

State Park1,2004+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

1,200

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Cordell Hull State Park

Cordell Hull State Park in Tennessee offers a rich blend of outdoor recreation on the shores of Cordell Hull Lake, making it a favored destination for camping, fishing, and hiking enthusiasts.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Cordell Hull State Park spans over 1,200 acres near the Cumberland River, centered around Cordell Hull Lake, an impoundment of the river created for flood control and recreation. The park's rolling terrain includes hardwood forests, mixed with open meadows and lakeside areas, fostering diverse wildlife habitats. Established in 1969 and named after Cordell Hull, a notable Tennessee statesman and U.S. Secretary of State, the park offers numerous facilities that accommodate visitors year-round. Key recreational opportunities include boating and fishing on the 1,200-acre lake, with species such as bass, crappie, and catfish abundant in the waters. The park features well-maintained hiking and mountain biking trails that wind through woodlands and along the lake's edge, giving visitors scenic views and chances to observe local fauna like deer, wild turkey, and various songbirds. Cordell Hull State Park also provides camping, picnicking, and playground areas, making it family-friendly and accessible for day visitors and extended stays. One notable landmark within the park is the historic Cordell Hull Dam, which regulates the Cumberland River flow and contributes to the creation of the lake. The park's blend of water and woodland environments, combined with modern amenities, enhances its visitor appeal for both active adventurers and those seeking relaxation in a natural setting.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Cordell Hull State Park

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

Charlotte Falls: A Natural Gem in Jackson County★ 6.5⌖ 15 miHiking
Charlotte Falls

Charlotte Falls: A Natural Gem in Jackson County

Explore Charlotte Falls in Jackson County, Tennessee. A peaceful escape offering multi-tiered waterfalls, stunning photo opportunities, and wildlife watching. Ideal for spring and fall visits. This hidden gem is great for hikers and photographers alike.

Cummins Falls State Park★ 7.8⌖ 16 miHiking to Waterfall
Cummins Falls State Park

Cummins Falls State Park

Explore Cummins Falls State Park near Cookeville, TN, featuring a 75-foot waterfall and swimming hole. Considered a moderate hike, it's popular for family-friendly adventures in spring and fall. Be cautious of slippery rocks.

Hiking to WaterfallView Details→
Cummins Falls★ 8.3⌖ 16 miHiking
Cummins Falls

Cummins Falls

Visit Cummins Falls, a stunning waterfall located in Cummins Falls State Park, Tennessee. Enjoy a 75-foot waterfall view and a hike that is moderately challenging. Popular for hiking, swimming, and photography, it offers a mix of adventure and serenity. Best visited in spring or fall.

Standing Stone State Park★ 7.2⌖ 17 miHiking
Standing Stone State Park

Standing Stone State Park

Explore Standing Stone State Park in Hilham, TN, known for easy hiking trails and serene kayaking on the lake. Best visited in spring and fall. A peaceful, family-friendly spot with historical significance. Quiet year-round, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

Cascading Beauty: Burgess Falls State Park★ 8.2⌖ 23 miHiking
Burgess Falls State Park

Cascading Beauty: Burgess Falls State Park

Explore the scenic beauty of Burgess Falls State Park's cascading waterfalls near Sparta, TN. This moderate 1.5-mile trail offers stunning river views and is perfect for hiking and fishing. Visit in spring or fall for the best experience.

Burgess Falls: Nature's Majestic Cascade★ 8.5⌖ 23 miWaterfall Viewing
Burgess Falls

Burgess Falls: Nature's Majestic Cascade

Burgess Falls in Tennessee offers a stunning 130-foot waterfall, perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and photography. Best visited in spring or fall, this area is accessible by a scenic drive from Nashville.

Waterfall ViewingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Cordell Hull Lake offering excellent fishing and boating opportunities✦ Cordell Hull Dam providing scenic views and historical significance✦ A network of multi-use trails for hiking and mountain biking✦ Well-equipped campgrounds with lake access and picnic facilities
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Cordell Hull State Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Cordell Hull State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Cordell Hull State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Cordell Hull State Park
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Cordell Hull State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Cordell Hull State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Cordell Hull State Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Cordell Hull State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Cordell Hull State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Cordell Hull State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Park access requires a standard Tennessee state park day-use or annual pass; camping fees apply to overnight stays.

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 Cordell Hull State Park

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

Cordell Hull State Park Campground

Features over 100 campsites with electric and water hookups, located near the lake for easy access to fishing and boating.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Cordell Hull State Park

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

Monterey
⌖ 7.50 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Monterey, Tennessee

A quiet mountain town offering authentic Appalachian outdoor experiences with close proximity to lakes, forests, and trails perfect for year-round adventure.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Livingston
⌖ 9.07 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Livingston, Tennessee

A quiet gateway to rustic outdoor adventures along the scenic Cumberland Plateau and nearby rivers, offering peaceful hiking, paddling, and wildlife experiences.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Cookeville
⌖ 13.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cookeville, Tennessee

A vibrant town that acts as a gateway to the natural beauty of the Cumberland Plateau offering diverse outdoor opportunities.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Hilham
⌖ 13.98 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hilham, Tennessee

A quiet rural town offering serene outdoor experiences amidst the Cumberland Plateau's natural beauty.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Baxter
⌖ 21.22 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Baxter, Tennessee

A quaint town offering access to the Cumberland Plateau's rugged outdoor adventures.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Gainesboro
⌖ 21.95 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gainesboro, Tennessee

A quiet riverside town offering access to serene paddling and hiking opportunities in the Cumberland River valley, with nearby state parks and natural areas.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Cordell Hull State Park

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

12 bookable experiences

Middle TN Back Country Can-Am Tours by Fisher's Off-Road ToursWilliamsport, Tennessee · 18.41 mi away
Trails & Outdoor Adventures· Fisher's Off-Road Tours LLC

Middle TN Back Country Can-Am Tours by Fisher's Off-Road Tours

Discover Tennessee’s wild side with Fisher's Off-Road Tours’ 2-hour Can-Am experience in Williamsport. Glide through water crossings, view waterfalls, and uncover historical sites on this guided adventure that delivers off-road excitement for all. Keep reading to learn what makes this trip a must-do for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

2 hours

Explore this trip

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