Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park
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An all-access trail with so many "secret" views and touch points with nature. The trails offer very little difficulty and worked well for my kids and father-in-law with a foot issue
We finally had the pleasure of camping at Old Stone Fort, since their remodel. This is a favorite spot for me and a great stop on my long drive to Florida. I'm completely obsessed with the waterfalls. As tent campers, we were really pleased to see a nice, brand new bathhouse. There are 3 bathroom stalls, 3 sinks, and 2 showers. It was always nice and clean when we used them. The have all new wiring and electric as well. I'm sure those with rv's and 5th wheels will appreciate that most. It was nice not hearing the buzz of the old unit and fans they ran non stop to keep it from overheating. We also didn't have to worry about power surges damaging anything we had plugged in. There's absolutely nothing to complain about. This is such a fantastic camping spot!
This is a beautiful spot to just do some low level hiking. And best part? You can bring your dog ! We have made it a point as much as possible to go somewhere in Middle Tennessee to explore. This is a gem! Although parking may be a bit of a challenge, I suggest get there as early as possible. If you've never been there, the waterfalls are spectacular! You'll see some diving into the water and some wading in the cascading waterfalls. But don't get too excited about the "big waterfall" by no means "big" means vertical more so horizontal sorry if I spoiled it for some. But it's a sight to see! Bring a blanket, some picnic foods and drinks. Bring a book or if you're an artist like me, bring your drawing supplies. A lot of inspiration will well up in you! Highly recommend for a well deserved nature adventure!
Our family really enjoyed Old Stone Fort State Archaeological State park. We really enjoyed walking the trails by the streams and waterfalls. The views were beautiful.
I stopped here on the way back to Fla during a road trip. It's close to the major interstate. After you park it's a quick walk to the museum and the waterfalls are right outside the museum. There is a little path. It was a beautiful spot and free.
Absolutely beautiful views of the waterfalls! The trails were moderate for hiking. Took us about two hours to do the trail. We brought our dogs. We walked fairly slow as we had all day. The park also has a playground and picnic area. There is also a museum and gift shop. We enjoyed our day here!
I love this park! Any government establishment with a misnomer as a name is delightful to me. So, this park was occupied by Native Americans over 1500 years ago, and they occupied it for over 500 years before abandoning the land. When European settlers landed, they incorrectly assumed the remains where that of a fort, so the land became known as Old Stone Fort Park. Archaeologists now believe those remains are that of grounds used for ceremonial purposes. The land was purchased in 1966 by the state of Tennessee. It is a total of a little over 800 acres. It also includes portions of Duck River, including a couple of different sets of waterfalls. It has six trails- Forks of the River (0.30 mile), the Moat Trail (0.40 mile), the Garrison Road Trail (0.80 mile), the Nature Trail (0.85 mile), the Backbone Trail (1.25 miles), and the Enclosure Trail (1.40 miles). We showed up, renting a pavilion for my father's birthday celebration, and enjoyed it. We started to go on one of the trails, or to go see the "fort" but found it all to be overrun with people. Overcautious due to COVID, we ended up just doing some driving around. We will be back to explore more thoroughly, and were very excited to be there.
The Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park in Manchester is one of the most interesting parks I've been to in Tennessee for many reasons. It is historically interesting, scenic and unique. The trail starts along the Duck River and there is a small museum at the trailhead (which I bypassed, opting for just taking in the sights). The enclosure trail is a pretty easy loop trail and only about a mile and a half although there are other little detours and routes you can take as well to make this hike a bit longer. You won't walk too far before seeing the blue hole falls, the main beautiful waterfall here. There is also big falls which to me was not as visually captivating but still cool. The main trail follows the Native American ceremonial grounds which are contained by remnants of a wall. There are many spots where you can stop and read more about the historical significance. This park is one of the many gems of Middle Tennessee and I'm glad I discovered it! Good for all ages and a very interesting and nice spot.
As far as campgrounds go, this has been one of the best we have stayed at in Tennessee. You just have to make sure you book the right spot, some are flooded, but the website me clearly states which ones. The bathroom is newly redone and is clean. The ranger is friendly and helpful. We had access to wood and ice and paying was easy. I walked out of the bathroom one morning and 5 deer were standing there hanging out in there shrub. In the summer the waterfall isn't as strong and you can bring water shoes and walk on top of the waterfall, it was amazing. So much access to wildlife and nature and campsite was super comfortable. We really loved it here. Pics are from our April and end of May trip.
Beautiful waterfalls and swimming area. Quick walk from parking lot, also there is a eating area and playground before getting to the waterfalls.
2 years ago
Absolutely stunning walk in nature. I highly recommend this easy 3 mile in and out hike. It's waterfall heaven! I should have counted to see how many waterfalls there were; I am curious to know how many I saw today. The museum is nice as well. There is also camping, playground, picnic area and large ceremonial Indian field. read more
Great park with beautiful waterfalls! I came here right before the hurricane so the there was not as much water and but it was still beautiful! The hike is super easy and very kid friendly! We had brought water shoes so we could dip our feet into the lake! It was lots of fun! We will definitely be back! Very scenic and fun! read more
2 years ago
An all-access trail with so many "secret" views and touch points with nature. The trails offer very little difficulty and worked well for my kids and father-in-law with a foot issue read more
We finally had the pleasure of camping at Old Stone Fort, since their remodel. This is a favorite spot for me and a great stop on my long drive to Florida. I'm completely obsessed with the waterfalls. As tent campers, we were really pleased to see a nice, brand new bathhouse. There are 3 bathroom stalls, 3 sinks, and 2 showers. It was always nice and clean when we used them. The have all new wiring and electric as well. I'm sure those with rv's and 5th wheels will appreciate that most. It was nice not hearing the buzz of the old unit and fans they ran non stop to keep it from overheating. We also didn't have to worry about power surges damaging anything we had plugged in. There's absolutely nothing to complain about. This is such a fantastic camping spot! read more
This is a beautiful spot to just do some low level hiking. And best part? You can bring your dog ! We have made it a point as much as possible to go somewhere in Middle Tennessee to explore. This is a gem! Although parking may be a bit of a challenge, I suggest get there as early as possible. If you've never been there, the waterfalls are spectacular! You'll see some diving into the water and some wading in the cascading waterfalls. But don't get too excited about the "big waterfall" by no means "big" means vertical more so horizontal sorry if I spoiled it for some. But it's a sight to see! Bring a blanket, some picnic foods and drinks. Bring a book or if you're an artist like me, bring your drawing supplies. A lot of inspiration will well up in you! Highly recommend for a well deserved nature adventure! read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
Our family really enjoyed Old Stone Fort State Archaeological State park. We really enjoyed walking the trails by the streams and waterfalls. The views were beautiful. read more
1 year ago
I stopped here on the way back to Fla during a road trip. It's close to the major interstate. After you park it's a quick walk to the museum and the waterfalls are right outside the museum. There is a little path. It was a beautiful spot and free. read more
2 years ago
The trails were fantastic! Loved the waterfalls and the beautiful scenery!! It was the last Summer trip before my beautiful daughters went back to college. We will be back next summer! read more
5 years ago
Absolutely beautiful views of the waterfalls! The trails were moderate for hiking. Took us about two hours to do the trail. We brought our dogs. We walked fairly slow as we had all day. The park also has a playground and picnic area. There is also a museum and gift shop. We enjoyed our day here! read more
I love this park! Any government establishment with a misnomer as a name is delightful to me. So, this park was occupied by Native Americans over 1500 years ago, and they occupied it for over 500 years before abandoning the land. When European settlers landed, they incorrectly assumed the remains where that of a fort, so the land became known as Old Stone Fort Park. Archaeologists now believe those remains are that of grounds used for ceremonial purposes. The land was purchased in 1966 by the state of Tennessee. It is a total of a little over 800 acres. It also includes portions of Duck River, including a couple of different sets of waterfalls. It has six trails- Forks of the River (0.30 mile), the Moat Trail (0.40 mile), the Garrison Road Trail (0.80 mile), the Nature Trail (0.85 mile), the Backbone Trail (1.25 miles), and the Enclosure Trail (1.40 miles). We showed up, renting a pavilion for my father's birthday celebration, and enjoyed it. We started to go on one of the trails, or to go see the "fort" but found it all to be overrun with people. Overcautious due to COVID, we ended up just doing some driving around. We will be back to explore more thoroughly, and were very excited to be there. read more
The Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park in Manchester is one of the most interesting parks I've been to in Tennessee for many reasons. It is historically interesting, scenic and unique. The trail starts along the Duck River and there is a small museum at the trailhead (which I bypassed, opting for just taking in the sights). The enclosure trail is a pretty easy loop trail and only about a mile and a half although there are other little detours and routes you can take as well to make this hike a bit longer. You won't walk too far before seeing the blue hole falls, the main beautiful waterfall here. There is also big falls which to me was not as visually captivating but still cool. The main trail follows the Native American ceremonial grounds which are contained by remnants of a wall. There are many spots where you can stop and read more about the historical significance. This park is one of the many gems of Middle Tennessee and I'm glad I discovered it! Good for all ages and a very interesting and nice spot. read more
4 years ago
As far as campgrounds go, this has been one of the best we have stayed at in Tennessee. You just have to make sure you book the right spot, some are flooded, but the website me clearly states which ones. The bathroom is newly redone and is clean. The ranger is friendly and helpful. We had access to wood and ice and paying was easy. I walked out of the bathroom one morning and 5 deer were standing there hanging out in there shrub. In the summer the waterfall isn't as strong and you can bring water shoes and walk on top of the waterfall, it was amazing. So much access to wildlife and nature and campsite was super comfortable. We really loved it here. Pics are from our April and end of May trip. read more
3 years ago
3 years ago
6 years ago
This place has so many waterfalls that it's insane. We got lost at first and ended up all the way at the end of the last falls but it was still fun to hike and see all the different waterfalls. This is a place worth visiting. read more
5 years ago
12 years ago
I am a fan...but I am always a fan of somewhere I can hike to get EXERCISE and learn something and enjoy the amazing outdoor scened try that we are blessed to share...I am always amazed how much beauty we pass up every day..and it is usually (95% of the time) FREE ...only thing required...you have to find it, enjoy it and be amazed.. Today was a gorgeous Sunday...I worked yesterday so I was still a little tired but I knew I needed to hike and I knew I needed to stay close to Nashville due to money...tight budget the weekend before payday..so I chose going to Manchester to Old Stone Fort State Park...Easy to find right the I-24 ..just follow the brown signs..Easy to find.. We arrived at the park and they have camping here if you like that. I am not much into camping...I prefer the BED..I am a BED LOVER...not much to sleeping bags and bugs...lol !!! We parked and got our little doggie Sammy out of the van. I put on my tennis shoes, leaving my sandals behind. Attached Sammy's leash to my waste..My fanny pack holds the leash for me, I just have to adjust how much lead way I want to allow her..While we were suiting up for the hiking and spraying off with the OFF with Deet bug spray, Tony and Noel went into the visitors center and museum (no doggies allowed in here) Noel purchased a few postcards for us and grabbed some park literature. We started our hike by jumping out about 5 large deers and Sammy went haywire...she is a small nervous dog and very protective so she thought we were being invaded...lol !!! We walked about a mile out the trail and then decided to cut over the mountain side following a well path down to the waters edge to a the base of a lovely waterfall. Here, Noel and I took off our shoes and waded out into the water..we were literally walking a little above our ankles on a rock floor. The Water fall had an upper fall, then the falls were at, and then you walk out the water rock floor (shelve) you are on top of the third fall drop off..so it is actually like one very spread out waterfall with three levels and we were on the second level. The water was so clear and really thick moss below my barefeet on the rock..it was not that slippery ..not that normal slimy slick feel when you are rocks submerged in running water...so it was actually easy to walk on. The thick cushiony moss made it easy on my barefeet. The water was so clear and cool. Sammy took several drinks.. Every now and then there was a slightly deeper drop of bujt nothing major. When I stepped down into them it made the water go to mid way below my knee...nothing major. I did put Sammy in there to let her swim..she had a good time..her first time swimming in the running creek waters. Not really deep enough for any major swimming but if you wanted to wade and or even sit down to get wet on a hot day..this is a great location. We spent about an hour playing in the water before hiking back. We found some interesting large mushrooms growing along the pathway and a live snake in a tree...very interesting hike and great water to play in. I will definitely go here again..I highly recommend this wonderful playland that God has given us to enjoy in his backyard... read more
2 years ago
What a hidden gem in Middle Tennessee! Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park (SFSAP) isn't the biggest park, but it's one of the more stunning short hikes I've been on Middle Tennessee. In particular, one trail - the Enclosure Trail - is a 1.4 mile loop that follows Duck River. It passes several falls - some smaller, some larger. It was beautiful. It was also cooler than elsewhere in Middle Tennessee (Nashville) because of the great shade provided by the trail. I highly recommend a hike at this park if you're in the area! read more
9 years ago
Four stars for the sheer historical aspect of it. Pretty decently preserved archaeological area, well marked trails and lots of stanchions with details of what lies before you. The hike was very easy with nice views of the two rivers and escarpments. No major elevation changes or steep climbs, great for beginners or if you just want a nice quick walk outside. They had a small gift shop and a museum of sorts was under construction when I went, the handful of displays they had were well organized though. Neat little stop off if you're in the area. read more
My son came home rambling about the place...some sort of fort that isn't a fort and we can hike it. Uhhhhhhhh...what? Hahahah! I started googling it we found out that it was Old Stone Fort! I told him that he was right-it was pretty close and we picked a weekend to hike it. Very well kept park. We loved the little gift shop and the restrooms were clean (that's always a plus). There are some stairs in part of the hike-always worth a little research if you have mobility concerns. The sights were GORGEOUS! We will definitely be back. Couple tips: *even if it's warm by the car, it's cooler by the water. A light weight hoodie might be worth bringing. *sun screen and bug spray-you'll thank me later *wear long pants. There is poison ivy and I was in shorts. Rough combo *believe the red path when it says it's hard. It was hard but so so so worth the amazing views read more
6 years ago
A beautiful get away to recollect your spirit... waterfalls will sweep you away just with their noise in the distance. Must see! read more
4 years ago
3 years ago
6 years ago
Our little family had the best time here! Absolutely beautiful. Our boys loved playing and wading in the water by the waterfall. Cannot wait to visit again, maybe next time to camp. The campgrounds are right on the river. Perfect free outing during COVID. read more
As a big fan of the great outdoors, I made an attempt to go camping this past weekend for the long holiday weekend. We arrived mid- to late-afternoon, around 3:30pm, with our 85lb dog and decided that 100 degree weather might be less than ideal weather conditions to sleep in a tent overnight. Especially for our pup. Needless to say, we made the most of our hour long drive and spent the day hiking around this awesome park and grilling food in the spacious picnic area. Much to our surprise, it ended up being a fantastic day! Despite the heat, we hiked the 1 1/4 mile trail around the fort and enjoyed the wall cliffs and scenic walk around and down to the river. The booklet we grabbed from the museum was informative and offered a great guide to the trail we hiked. I really loved that the river and waterfalls were easily accessible and pet friendly. Our pup enjoyed frolicking and splashing around in the water, and it was a nice little treat for him since we forgot to fill our nalgene! I especially appreciated that you could walk around in the water above the mini waterfall on the grassy area (I think it was Step Falls). Very cool. After the hike, we ventured to the picnic area, which was huge and VERY clean. We snuck off to our own little corner and let the pup relax in the shade. The grills were small but perfectly set up near tables and also a nice distance apart from other grills. While there weren't many people there to begin with (I guess most people checked the weather report), we felt like we still had our space to enjoy the outdoors. There was even a nice swing set and slide for kids to distract themselves! Overall - this park is very pet and family friendly, and despite how close it is to Manchester, you would never know you were close to civilization once you're in there! It's a fantastic park and I cannot wait until the weather cools off so we can check out the campsites! read more
This is one of my favorite parks around Nashville. While the name conjures up one of the innumerable battlefields around this state, the park is actually named for a low-running series of Native American mounds that are believed to fulfill some ceremonial role. Ironically, the mounds themselves are not particularly impressive, simply low, nondescript 4-6-ft tall mounds of earth, though the sheer 50-acre size of the Old Stone Fort is imposing. What is impressive is the park's waterfalls. As the Old Stone Fort wraps around the bluffs at the confluence of two branches of the Duck River, there are waterfalls for the entirety of the single loop trail around the fort. Three fairly large waterfalls, Step Falls, Blue Hole Falls, and Big Falls run alongside the trail, and are fairly impressive to view, especially after storms, when the Duck becomes a raging torrent descending the Highland Rim Plateau. The falls are all accessible, though some difficulty may be experienced in descending and reascending the bluffs. I have found that both Early Spring and Late Fall are great times for visiting, the former due to the high volume of water cascading down the waterfalls, the latter for making the Indian mounds distinct and mysterious, especially during the late evening as the sun begins its descent. read more
Beautiful hike! Lots of ways to get down to the waterfalls but make sure you wear shoes good enough to climb in. Kinda steep to climb down to get to the waterfalls. There are lots of spiders and a few snakes so just be careful of that but over all the hike is pretty easy. read more
6 years ago
11 years ago
We LOVED the history of our Native people's here. 2000 years of history, beautiful waterfalls, and gorgeous forest; how can you go wrong? We hiked the 1 1/4 mi trail with a toddler & 2 women in their sixties & it took 3 hrs! Hiking is not for the Faint of heart. We did take side optional trails though. Waterfalls were worth the climb. This park is a hidden gem & worth the drive. I also felt like this was something you would see on National Geographic channel or hear about on George Noory's Coast to Coast radio show. Loved it here! read more
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More info about Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park
732 Stone Fort Dr
Manchester, TN 37355
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(931) 461-7676
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https://tnstateparks.com
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