Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park

    4.6 (70 reviews)
    Open • 8:00 am - 4:30 pm

    Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park Photos

    More like Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park

    Recommended Reviews - Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Tyler D.

    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

    Main power boxes.
    Angela J.

    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!

    Waterfalls throughout your hike
    Zaneta W.

    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!

    Chasity G.

    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.

    Greg F.

    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.

    First Waterfall

    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!

    Waterfall
    Christina B.

    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!

    Brandi H.

    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.

    Winter at the park
    Maddie H.

    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.

    Spotted deer by the museum/store area
    Ashley P.

    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.

    Bigger waterfall
    Bianca C.

    Beautiful waterfalls and swimming area. Quick walk from parking lot, also there is a eating area and playground before getting to the waterfalls.

    See all

    2 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 25
    Thanks 0
    Love this 22
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Very scenic and relaxing views! Will definitely hike again. Stop by if you have the chance!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of David H.
    472
    1922
    3427

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    5 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 5
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Shawn H.
    27
    30
    10

    3 years ago

    So much fun! Beautiful and quiet. My family and I had a great day even though the water was super cold.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    6 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Great food, fair prices. Service was expeditious and friendly. Ample parking. Great atmosphere. Order the western omlette.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 8
    Thanks 0
    Love this 7
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Great outdoor activity option especially on a beautiful day. If you're in the area plan for a stop through

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of J D.
    26
    519
    176

    10 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 9
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    15 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    15 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ashley P.
    157
    67
    13

    6 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 2

    Ask the Community - Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park

    Review Highlights - Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park

    “It was also cooler than elsewhere in Middle Tennessee (Nashville) because of the great shade provided by the trail.”

    Mentioned in 5 reviews

    Read more highlights

    Barton Springs Campgrounds - No complaints about Site 17! You Can literally fall into the water from the campsite.

    Barton Springs Campgrounds

    2.7(7 reviews)
    7.0 mi

    You'll need to adjust your expectations if you reserve a spot for your RV at this campground…read more I suggest you have one set of expectations for the overall area -- it's truly scenic -- and lower your expectations for the campsite itself, which is crowded with uneven sites in some cases, sloppy overall appearance, with run-down restrooms. Cellular coverage is spotty at best -- but this service is, of course, out of the control of the managers. The biggest problem with the sites at the main campground area is they are too close together.. If you sustain the misfortune, as we did, of acquiring noisy neighbors, you'll be in for a long, sleepless night. There needs to be more enforcement of rules. Our neighbor's site had no less than 3 pickup trucks on it, with one guy banging away at metal underneath one truck for over an hour. Young children, we're running around screaming and hollering out of control. The parents, several sets of them apparently, were busy carousing. This behavior might not have been so noticeable if the campsites were not so close together. We had to close our windows because our neighbors started a fire, and the smoke poured into our coach. We checked out sites across the water up on a hill. The roads are dirt and stone with rain gulch runoff. The terrain is uneven, as are some of the sites. The entire area is under a canopy of trees -- great shade. The bath/shower house is under renovation and closed as of the date of our visit. Our recommendation: pick another park unless you have a specific reason to be here.

    *NOT SKOOLIE FRIENDLY* While the brown lake is fine, nature…read moreis rarely the problem. In summary: We were treated like we wanted something for nothing the ENTIRE time here, I wish we never came. In a two night stay we had three encounters from three different employees, including Waking up to being told to move from a spot, then to be offered it later. "You know you're supposed to be gone" 6 minutes after check out, while RVs around us were just starting to pack up. "Y'all sure like takin liberties, don't ya?" When showering with permission. All this was chalked up to "people doing their jobs." Skip the place unless you fit the usual retiree RV standard. You will be judged and harassed and pay just as much for it.

    Photos
    Barton Springs Campgrounds - Site 9 has an amazing view.

    Site 9 has an amazing view.

    Barton Springs Campgrounds
    Barton Springs Campgrounds

    See all

    Fall Creek Falls State Park

    Fall Creek Falls State Park

    4.4(158 reviews)
    43.8 mi

    I'll make it short & sweet. July 15, 2026, I called Reservations (can't remember the name of the…read moregirl who took my reservations, although I wrote it down somewhere but when I hear it, I'll know it) & booked the dates of July 18th, Saturday, to July 21st, Tuesday of 2026; B65 was the location. I explained to the female that I had trouble with self-reservation online & I couldn't see the rest of the information in the dropdown box whenever I clicked, what looked like a location was available or as I understood it to be available. She took my reservation, REPEATED IT BACK to me correctly (in between putting me on hold about 2 or 3 times) and then gave me the price. I paid for it and she sent the email confirmation. I looked at the email and saw the date I called, the time & "18th - 21st." Cool. That Saturday morning of July 18th, I drove over 9 hours (got lost a little bit because of highway construction and GPS) but made it there. Went to the office lobby, gave my name & the campground location. "Brandy" is what the front desk girl asked me as my name. "No..." I responded and repeated my name. Well, long story short, she said Brandy had my spot, I was offered another location, I took it, showed her my confirmation and saw that the reservation girl had listed me as "Tuesday, August 18, 2026 arrival" and departure "Friday, August 21, 2026." I told the young lady at the desk of the conversation of my reservation and stated that although I didn't notice the month and days were incorrect, the reservationist spoke it correctly, so that's what I saw. The part that really got me, she said I had to pay $17.00 extra to go to the new location. I refused. I have worked in hospitality for years and I know how it works. I told her I wasn't upset with her but I shouldn't have to pay for their mistake. I asked for a refund. Then I drove another 10 or so hours back home (because of traffic & getting lost trying to leave Spencer, TN). I'm just now leaving this review because I tried to forget what happened but each time someone asked me, who hadn't seen me since I returned, how my vacation went, as I replay the scenario, my emotional feelings of frustration, some anger & the memory of how exhausted I was, returns. I slept for 2 days because I had missed so much sleep just driving to TN then immediately returning home. Will I ever return to this campground? I doubt it. NO, I shall not. No one even apologized to me. All I heard was, "That'll be $17.00." My response, "17.00 for what? I'm paying?" Nooooo, I believe I'm done. Thanks for reading.

    Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground Review: Campground C - Site 148 - The site is not level and…read moreour fifth wheel would not self level. We manually had to level our rig with our jacks. Many sites in campground C have a minimum to major slope to the concrete sites as they fall to a valley. All utilities are in the back corners of sites that include water spigot, a power pedestal with 20AMP, 30AMP, 50AMP electricity, and sewer connection. The campground did have decent guest WiFi, but we utilized our own StarLink satellite for internet. The park is amazing with golf, lodge, trails, and falls.

    Photos
    Fall Creek Falls State Park
    Fall Creek Falls State Park - Fall Creek Falls State Park

    Fall Creek Falls State Park

    Fall Creek Falls State Park - The water falls behind  me was beautiful  love how cool it was in 86 degree weather

    See all

    The water falls behind me was beautiful love how cool it was in 86 degree weather

    Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park - parks - Updated September 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...