End-of-Summer Bucket List: 4 Must-Do Outdoor Activities
As summer begins to wind down, August offers the perfect opportunity to tick off those remaining items on your summer bucket list. With just a few weeks left before fall arrives, now is the time to make the most of the warm weather and long days. Here are four activities to help you savor the final moments of summer this August.
Grab a Paddle
Shake up the way you explore state parks by hitting the water. You’ll experience new sights, plus a cool splash of water from your paddle is a refreshing bonus on a hot summer day. Whether you prefer canoes, kayaks, or paddle boards, you can find the perfect equipment for rent at several parks. Some great options include:
- Big Ridge State Park
- Chickasaw State Park
- Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
- Montgomery Bell State Park
- Pickett CCC Memorial State Park
- Pickwick Landing State Park
- Standing Stone State Park
- Tims Ford State Park
- Warriors’ Path State Park
Many of these parks also offer campsites, so you can turn your paddling adventure into a memorable weekend getaway. If you have your own paddling gear, you can explore even more locations such as Seven Islands State Birding Park, David Crockett Birthplace State Park, and Mousetail Landing State Park.
For those looking for a guided experience, several state parks are offering paddling programs. From peaceful sunset kayak floats to informative river tours, our staff ensures a fun and educational time on the water.
Dip into Refreshing Waters
There’s nothing quite like cooling off on a hot southern day, and Tennessee State Parks offer an array of options for every type of swimmer.
Swimming holes are natural pools of water, sometimes at the base of a waterfall, that provide a rewarding cool-down experience after a hike. Parks like Cummins Falls State Park, Fall Creek Falls State Park, Savage Gulf State Park, and Rock Island State Park are home to some of the best swimming holes in the state. These spots are perfect for those looking to combine a scenic hike with a refreshing plunge into cool waters.
If you’re seeking a less strenuous option, Tennessee State Parks also offer swim beaches ideal for families and those looking for a hassle-free swim. These areas are designated for swimming in lakes and usually feature sandy shores perfect for relaxing.
For those preferring the convenience of a swimming pool, some parks offer overnight accommodations with pools available to guests. The lodges and cabins at Montgomery Bell State Park, Pickwick Landing State Park, Fall Creek Falls State Park and Paris Landing State Park all offer a comfortable and convenient way to enjoy a swim without venturing too far from your room.
How will you choose to take your last swim of the season?
Cool Drinks, Delicious Meals & Warm Nights
Savoring warm summer nights on an outdoor patio with a cold drink epitomizes peak summer enjoyment. Tennessee State Parks you can combine outdoor dining with breathtaking views. Restaurants at parks such as Fall Creek Falls State Park, Pickwick Landing State Park, Montgomery Bell State Park, Paris Landing State Park, Henry Horton State Park and Cumberland Mountain State Park offer incredible outdoor patios. Whether you prefer lounging at a table with stunning lake views or enjoying a seat at an open-air bar, these parks provide the perfect setting for both outdoor enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
Gaze up at the Stars
Campsites at Tennessee State Parks are perfect for laying out on a blanket under the vast, star-filled sky. With significantly less light pollution than urban areas, parks offer a unique opportunity to see countless stars that you might miss at home. In fact, Pickett CCC Memorial State Park is recognized as an International Dark Sky Park, offering some of the finest stargazing opportunities in the state. If camping isn’t your speed, cabins and lodge rooms also provide great locations for an overnight stargazing trip. You can also find park programs that offer after-hours access to prime stargazing spots.