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Pickett State Park
Situated in a remote section of the upper Cumberland Mountains, the 11,752-acre Pickett State Park and Forest possesses a combination of scenic, botanical and geological wonders found nowhere else in Tennessee. Of particular interest are the uncommon rock formations, natural bridges, numerous caves and the remains of ancient Indian occupation. Some say Pickett is second only to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in botanical diversity. The park is adjacent to the massive Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, with more than 100,000 acres of prime country. The park is located in Pickett County, 12 miles northeast of Jamestown on State Route 154.
Forty campsites are available, each with tables and grills, and 31 sites have electrical
and water hookups. The campground is served with a modern bathhouse and a dumping station.
There is a Laundromat and playground in the campground.
Backcountry camping is available on the 20 mile backcountry trail. There is water available at the designated campsite.
The camp consists of camper cabins, bathhouse, kitchen and dining lodge. It is completely
equipped for food preparation and serving. Campers need only to provide linens, food,
medical and sanitary supplies and staff. The camp will accommodate up to 148 persons.
Group campers swim at the park's beach at a reduced rate. During the summer months it is
usually rented on a weekly basis only, but is available for weekend use at other times.
Reservations must be made through the park office.
Pickett has many picnic sites with tables and grills surrounding Arch Lake. Restrooms and
drinking fountains are provided. Three picnic shelters that can accommodate up to 50
persons are available for large family or other group use. Picnic shelters can be reserved
by calling the park office.
Pickett's beautiful, cliff-lined sandy swimming beach is one of the most picturesque in
the South. The beach is served by a bathhouse. Swimming is available during summer months
with lifeguards on duty.
More than 58 miles of hiking trails meander through the wilds of Pickett. Many are lined
with thick groves of rhododendron and afford views of majestic forests, caves, natural
bridges, waterfalls and sheer rock bluffs. Trail maps and other literature are available
at the park office.
Year-round fishing is available at Pickett's delightful, 15-acre Arch Lake. Fishermen need
a trout stamp and a valid Tennessee fishing license for persons over 16 years of age.
Rowboats and canoes are available for rent at the park boat dock. No personally owned
boats or motors are permitted. Hunting is open at Pickett except in safety zones. Hunting
seasons conform to all state rules and regulations. Visitors may also enjoy archery,
ball fields, horseshoes, lighted tennis courts, volleyball, basketball court, playgrounds
and scenic drives.
Pickett has a naturalist available during the summer months, conducting guided tours,
demonstrations, campfire programs, movies, and other programs. The naturalist is available
to answer visitor's questions about the natural and cultural history of the Pickett area.
Pickett
State Park
Rock Creek Route, Box 174
Jamestown, Tennessee 38556
931-879-5821
Information for this page was obtained from the Pickett State Park Brochure and Tennessee Dept. of Tourism