Park Happenings

Event Details

Fort Pillow State Historic Park

Saturday, September 26, 2026

11:00 am: Tennessee Serves National Public Lands Hike: Join the staff of Fort Pillow as we celebrate National Public Lands Day with a 2.5-mile hike along some of the earthworks built by confederate soldiers in 1861. While we are in route we will discuss the battle, the flora and fauna, as well as pick up any litter or debris that may be encountered along the trail. Be sure to bring water, bug spray, hiking stick if needed, and hiking appropriate attire.

2:00 pm: Civil War Bingo: Join seasonal ranger at the campground to play Civil War Bingo for small prizes!

3:00 pm: National Preparedness Month: Join Ranger Chris at the museum for a program on Preparedness. Each September, FEMA’s Ready Campaign celebrates National Preparedness Month. Since 2004, the campaign has taken the month to encourage Americans to prepare for emergencies. The month is a great time to take small steps to make a big difference in being prepared. This year’s theme is, “Americans Stand Ready.” The theme reflects the spirit of unity, resilience and resourcefulness that make our country strong. It’s a reminder that each of us can make a difference by taking proactive steps before a disaster strikes, and encouraging loved ones to do the same, Americans can contribute to the safety and security of the entire nation. Preparedness is everyone’s responsibility, and disasters and emergencies can happen at any time, anywhere, and sometimes without warning.

7:00 pm: Full Moon Lake Float: In celebration of World Rivers Day tomorrow, Join Seasonal Ranger at Fort Pillow Lake for a kayak or canoe float under the Harvest Moon. You will learn about the history of Fort Pillow, including the creation of the lake and what lies beneath it. $7.00 must register ahead of time.

Sunday, September 27, 2026

8:00 am: Birds and Bugs: Meet seasonal ranger at the playground and pavilion for an interesting activity about animal camouflage. Pretend to be birds in search of food. This simulation explores the underlying concepts of how animals use camouflage. For example, which color “bug” will be the easiest for predators to locate in the chosen setting?

9:00 am: Scavenger Hunt: Meet Seasonal Ranger at the museum for a fun scavenger hunt through the museum. This interactive game guides visitors through exhibits using clues, trivia, and observation challenges to transform passive viewing into an active investigation, deepening your connection to the history on display.

12:00 pm: Museum Tour and Video: Meet seasonal ranger at the museum for an informative tour through the exhibits, insight into what a soldier would have carried in his pack, and to view the film on the Civil War battle Fort Pillow.

1:00 pm: Hike to the Restored Fortification: Meet the seasonal ranger at the museum for a short, informative round-trip hike up to the newly restored fortification where most of the battle at Fort Pillow took place. Along the way, hikers will cross the newly installed 120-yard-long suspension bridge, which is the longest in the TN State Parks. Ask about All-terrain wheelchairs that can be driven all the way to the Fort.