Big Ridge State Park

PARK WEATHER
  • Lush green hills and river with houses nestled among trees.
  • Escape to the tranquil beauty of Big Ridge State Park, encompassing 3,687 acres of diverse landscapes. Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, this park offers a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike scenic trails, swim in the refreshing lake, or explore historic sites, Big Ridge State Park provides a memorable experience for all.     

    Explore the Park

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    Safety and Accessibility

    • Safety

      Trails at Big Ridge State Park range from easy to very difficult.  Backcountry hiking trails require caution due to potential bear encounters. Visitors should stay on marked trails and avoid going off-trail under any circumstances. Jumping off the dam is strictly prohibited. Always wear a life jacket when swimming. Check with the park office for any specific guidelines in place, such as burn bans. Check weather status for time of visit. Maintain all speed limits and follow traffic laws while in the park.  

    • Accessibility  

      Big Ridge State Park strives to make its facilities and activities accessible to all visitors. The Grist Mill offers ADA access for viewing.  

    • Responsible Recreation  

      Tennessee State Parks are dedicated to promoting responsible recreation — encouraging visitors to enjoy the parks’ natural beauty while minimizing their own impact. By practicing Leave No Trace principles and respecting park rules, visitors can help preserve these precious resources for future generations.  

    Want to Stay Overnight?  

    Visitor Center Gift Shop 

    The Visitor Center Gift Shop is the perfect place to pick up a map, learn about the park, or find a souvenir. You’ll find an assortment of apparel and keepsakes to remember your trip to the park. 

    Address:
    1015 Big Ridge Park Road, Maynardville TN, 37087

    Hours: 
    8:00 AM - 4:30 PM    

    For Schools

    Engage your students in a hands-on learning experience with Ranger-led or teacher-led programs at Tennessee State Parks. 

    Park Amenities

    • Amphitheater
    • Basketball
    • Beach
    • Bike Trails
    • Birding
    • Boat Ramp
    • Boat Rentals
    • Boat Access
    • Cabins
    • Campground
    • Canoe Access
    • Fishing
    • Gift Shop
    • Trails
    • Laundromat
    • Paddle Rentals
    • Playground
    • Rental Venue
    • Swimming
    • Tennis
    • Visitor Center
    • Volleyball
    • Spacious log cabin interior with wooden beams, stone fireplace, and polished wooden floors. Bright natural light through multiple French doors. Cozy, rustic ambiance.

    Big Ridge Recreation Hall

    Ideal for weddings, reunions, and other events, the Recreation Hall at Big Ridge State Park is a versatile event and meeting venue that can accommodate approximately 70 people. The rustic log-and-stone hall overlooks Big Ridge Lake and has a large adjacent flagstone patio. Immediately below the hall is the amphitheater. The hall has a 14’ ceiling and is available year-round except for state holidays. Reservations may be made up to two years in advance. There is no internet accessibility.  

    Dimensions: 25’ x 41’ 
    Amenities: large stone fireplace, tables, chairs, small kitchen for limited food preparation and cleanup, air conditioning 
    Minimum Rental: 1 Day 
    Availability: Year-round 
    Capacity: 70 
    Rates: Monday - Thursday $190 / Friday - Sunday $375 

    Rates are subject to change. There is a $5 non-refundable reservation fee. 

    Pavilions

    Big Ridge State Park has four picnic shelters/pavilions that may be reserved for your next event or gathering.  

    Capacity: 25 
    Amenities: picnic tables, grill, access to restrooms 
    Rates: $36 

    Full-day shelter reservations may be made online or by calling the park. 

    Picnic shelters or pavilions 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.

    • A sunny park scene with a wooden picnic shelter labeled "Shelter 2," surrounded by lush green trees and grass. A concrete path leads to the shelter.

    Planning a Group Gathering?

    Tennessee State Parks make planning your next group event easy. Reach out to our team for help with overnight stays, venue bookings, catering, and more, so you can focus on making memories, not logistics.

    Happenings
  • Energy Efficiency

    Our buildings are from the 1930s and don’t require any significant energy. By design the park construction remains simple.  

     

  • Minimize Erosion

    Big Ridge has worked to control erosion, repair stormwater damage, and sustain the landscape with gravel, timbers and ditches.  

  • Recycling & Trash Management

    Installed trash and recycling dumpsters, removing all individual trash cans, providing signage and direction to visitors. Fewer trashcans decreases the need for liners and creates less waste.  

  • Help Preserve the Future

    Join our majestic teams to preserve, protect, and nurture Tennessee State Parks. 

    Gift Shops and Stores

    Shop or Store name
    Visitor Center Gift Shop 
    Address

    1015 Big Ridge Park Road 
    Maynardville, TN 37087
    United States

    Phone number
    Hours

    Visitor Center and Gift Shop Hours 
    8:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Daily

    GET DIRECTIONS

    Contact Information

    Big Ridge State Park (Park Office)  
    Address

    1015 Big Ridge Park Road 
    Maynardville, TN 37807
    United States

    Phone number
    Hours

    8:00 AM to 4:30 PM ET 

    Reservations & Information
    1-888-TN-PARKS
    1-888-867-2757