Big Hill Pond State Park
Notification Alert
Campground Closed for Renovations
The Big Hill Pond State Park Campground is currently closed due to renovations. At this time, a reopen date has not been set.
Backcountry sites are still available and can be utilized with a backcountry camping permit prior to stay. Additionally, for larger groups, Group Campsites 2 and 3 are available. Please note that none of these sites provides water or electricity. These sites are strictly primitive camping only!
More information will be provided for our 25/50K event and will be posted as soon as all the details are worked out!
Dismal Swamp Boardwalk is Closed due to Construction
Dismal Swamp Boardwalk was originally built and 1977 and though we have had many people including volunteers and boy scout groups help maintain this asset, it still has some of the same materials from 1977 on it! We honestly can’t say thank you to everyone who has helped keep this asset open and available to the public over the years! With that being said, we, at Big Hill Pond State Park, have exciting news to share with everyone!
Dismal Swamp Boardwalk is being replaced! Last year our park received funding for a new boardwalk which we hope to see started in Spring of 2025! At this time, Dismal Swamp Boardwalk will be closed to the public to prepare for removal of materials and for preconstruction. The new boardwalk will be more user friendly as well as environmentally friendly! If you wish to still hike to the Observation Tower, don’t fret! You can still access the tower by using the blue and red trails.
Travis McNatt Lake Closure
Due to major infrastructure improvements happening at the lake, the Travis McNatt Lake remains closed.
Visitors are welcome to bring small paddling boats to Big Hill Pond Lake during this time.
When the lake reopens, it will be a part of the multi-departmental program, the Bill Dance Signature Lakes, and visitors will find:
- A rebuilt bridge on the east side of the lake
- A new, wider boat ramp
- Two new docks: a fishing pier and kayak-friendly courtesy dock
- Spillway repairs
- Improved bank fishing areas
- Invasion vegetation removal and fish habitat installation
- Fishery rebuilding and fish restocking
If you have additional questions, please submit them here: https://stateoftennessee.formstack.com/forms/ask_tn_state_parks
Explore the Park
Safety and Accessibility
Want to Stay Overnight?
While You Are Here
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Observation Tower
Ascend the observation tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the park's diverse landscape, offering a unique perspective on the surrounding natural beauty.
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Dismal Swamp
Embark on an adventure through Dismal Swamp, a unique wetland ecosystem teeming with diverse plant and animal life, offering a glimpse into a fascinating natural world.
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Travis McNatt Lake
Paddle across the serene waters of Travis McNatt Lake, a picturesque destination for kayaking, canoeing, and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
Park Activities
Park Amenities
- Aviary
- Basketball
- Bike Trails
- Birding
- Boat Ramp
- Boat Rentals
- Boat Access
- Camp Store
- Campground
- Canoe Access
- Disc Golf Course
- Horseback Riding
- Fishing
- Gift Shop
- Trails
- Honey
- Hunting Adjacent
- Paddle Rentals
- Playground
- Rental Venue
- Visitor Center
Pavilions
Big Hill Pond State Park has two pavilions that may be reserved.
Full day shelter reservations may be made online or by calling the park. They may be reserved online up to one year in advance with a paid reservation fee.
There is a $5 cancellation fee for picnic shelter or pavilion reservations cancelled eight days or more in advance of the reserved date. Reservations cancelled seven days or less in advance of the reserved date forfeit all paid fees.
Capacity: 60
Amenities: picnic tables, grill and access to restrooms
Rates: $60
1800's Chimney Pavilion
The 1800s Chimney Shelter is across the road from the recreation area.
This site features a playground, basketball court, pickleball court, and the beginning of the 18-hole disc golf course. There is ADA parking at the shelter and a large parking area across the road from the shelter. Please note, there are no restrooms at this site. The shelter does have a grill, running water, and electricity. The chimney is useable as well. The shelter is first come, first served or reservable and can fit 30 people.
Recycling Program
Offer on-site recycling.
Energy Efficiency
Conducted an energy audit to assess energy usage and identify specific areas for improvement. Upgraded lighting, added occupancy sensors for lighting and a new hot water system.
Support Native Habitats
Created native habitat for wildlife by decreasing the amount of park lands that are mowed and encouraging the growth of native grasses and vegetation.