Park Happenings

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American Chestnut Festival

Cumberland Mountain State Park

Meeting Place

Assembly Hall/Recreation Lodge (next to the pool)
Sat, Oct 10, 2026 at 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Event Details

We’re excited to invite you to the American Chestnut Festival at Cumberland Mountain State Park. This special day is dedicated to honoring and preserving one of America’s most iconic native trees – the American chestnut – and celebrating the natural world around us.

Explore booths and connect with:

Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA)

Tennessee Division of Forestry

Cumberland County Rewilding Project

The American Chestnut Foundation

Friends of CMSP


11:00 AM — Dr. Hill Craddock

Dr. Craddock, the UC Foundation Davenport Professor in Biology at UTC, will share an update on UTC’s current research into the restoration of the American chestnut tree.

12:00 PM — Zach Anderson

Zach Anderson, Southern Regional Science Coordinator for The American Chestnut Foundation, will discuss the importance of these magnificent trees and their role in our forests.


Live planting demonstration

See an American chestnut planting demonstration and learn more about efforts to bring this iconic tree back to our forests.


Native plants & local vendors

Scott Thomas of Thomas Nursery will be on-site selling native plants along with a handful of local vendors.

Family-friendly activities


Bring the whole family! Interpretive programs will be happening throughout the event including chestnut roasting and nature hikes.


Come out for this one-day event and discover how each of us can do our part to conserve, restore, and protect the natural world.

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Event Host
kacey.king@tn.gov
931-484-6138

Please Remember: Schedules and events may change - contact the park or hike leader for more information.

Escape to the scenic Cumberland Mountain State Park, a haven of natural beauty and rich history spanning 1,720 acres. Nestled in the Cumberland Plateau, this park invites you to explore its diverse landscape, from the iconic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) bridge to the tranquil Byrd Lake. Discover hiking trails, cozy cabins, and a championship golf course, all while immersing yourself in the legacy of the CCC era. Whether you seek outdoor adventure or a peaceful retreat, Cumberland Mountain State Park offers an unforgettable experience.