Frozen Head Highlights
Warning Alert
Renovations at Frozen Head State Park
Frozen Head State Park is undergoing several major renovations. As construction progresses, we will keep you updated on which sections have reopened. We thank you for your patience and understanding. If you have any questions about your reservation, please call 1 (888) 867-2757.
Currently Closed:
- All Big Cove Campsites
- All Flat Fork Campsites
- The Visitor Center (but the public restrooms remain open)
- Shelters B & C
- The Rocky Fork Area (including the Ross Gap Trailhead and volleyball courts)
- A number of trails
- The only accessible trail at this time is the Chimney Top Trail behind the Visitor Center. This trail is considered strenuous with significant elevation gain and up to a 14-mile hike.
During this renovation, we encourage campers to check out our nearby parks. Some nearby parks to consider are:
- Norris Dam State Park: Tent and RV sites and cabins, 41 miles away.
- Cove Lake State Park: Tent and RV sites, 42 miles away.
- Cumberland Mountain State Park: Tent and RV sites and cabins, 47 miles away.
- Big Ridge State Park: Tent and RV sites, 50 miles away.
From Coal Mines to Conservation
Venture into the heart of the Cumberland Mountains and discover Frozen Head State Park, a wilderness haven named for its iconic, often ice-crowned peak. This park is a tapestry woven from rugged terrain, cascading waterfalls, and a rich history that echoes through its forests. But there's more to this park than meets the eye. Uncover the hidden gems and unique experiences that await you.
Discover Frozen Head State Park
Imagine a land once scarred by coal mining, now reclaimed by lush forests and pristine streams. Picture a place where the echoes of Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camps mingle with the whispers of wind through ancient trees. This is Frozen Head, a park that invites you to explore its wild beauty, discover its layered history, and connect with the untamed heart of Tennessee. Hike to the iconic Lookout Tower, chase waterfalls, or simply breathe in the crisp mountain air — Frozen Head promises an unforgettable adventure.
History
The story of Frozen Head State Park begins long before it became a state park.
In the late 1800s, the State of Tennessee purchased the property for the Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary, utilizing the land for coal mining operations.
After the turn of the century, part of the land was purchased by the state and became known as Morgan State Forest until 1970.
During the 1930s, the CCC established a camp on the property, leaving behind remnants that can still be seen today along the Interpretive Loop Trail. These remnants offer a glimpse into the era of the Great Depression and the CCC's efforts to conserve and develop natural resources.
The park officially became Frozen Head State Park in 1970, encompassing more than 24,000 acres of wilderness. The name "Frozen Head" comes from the 3,324-foot peak in the Cumberland Mountains, the top of which is often shrouded in ice or snow during the winter months. Today, Frozen Head stands as a protected natural area, offering visitors a chance to experience the raw beauty of the Cumberland Mountains while learning about its unique history.
From the Rangers
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The Perfect Day
Start your day with a hike to the iconic Lookout Tower for a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains. Next, take a step back in time at the historic Stonecipher Kelly Homeplace. End your day with a short hike to the dual delight of neighboring waterfalls Debord Falls and Emory Gap Falls.
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Insider Information
For a truly special experience, seek out the lookout opportunity located at the North Old Mac campsite (when it is not reserved). This vantage point offers a stunning view of the valley below, a secret known to few but cherished by those who discover it.
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Know Before You Go
Encompassing some of Tennessee’s highest mountains, Frozen Head State Park is rugged and remote. Cell service is limited throughout the park. Reception tends to be best at the Visitor Center, where you can also connect to Wi-Fi. Always be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water when hiking challenging trails. And please note that winter weather can limit vehicular access to the park.
Land and Water
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Trails
Frozen Head State Park boasts a network of challenging trails that wind through its rugged terrain. From the popular hike to Lookout Tower to the lesser-known Spicewood Trail, there's a trail for every skill level.
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Mountains and Vistas
The park's namesake, Frozen Head, is the highest point in the park, offering breathtaking 360-degree views from Lookout Tower. Bird Mountain Trail, Lookout Tower Trail, and Chimney Top Trail also offer ridge-top experiences with scenic vistas.
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Water Features
The park is home to several cascading waterfalls, including Debord Falls (12 feet) and Emory Gap Falls (25 feet). Visitors can wade or swim below the waterfalls, enjoying the refreshing mountain waters.
Plants
Frozen Head State Park terrain is rich in diverse flora, fauna, and fungi.
The park’s main recreational area is situated in the Flat Fork Valley and was protected in part due to the unique features of the Flat Fork Watershed, which drains into the Emory River. The lower elevations support a mixed mesophytic forest, while the upper elevations consist of oak-dominated forest.
Ask a Park Ranger about the unique plant life and the park's conservation efforts.
Plant Types
- Iris
- Trillium
- Trout Lillies
- Wildflowers (General)
- Virginia Spiraea
Birds
The Natural Area is within the Cumberland Mountains Important Bird Area.
Over 130 species of birds have been observed in the park throughout the year. Frozen Head State Park supports high breeding populations of several neotropical migrant birds, including the cerulean warbler, as well as breeding populations of a few high-elevation species that are rare in Tennessee outside of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Bird Species
- Acadian Flycatcher
- American Robin
- Black-and-White Warbler
- Black-throated Blue Warbler
- Blackburnian Warbler
- Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
- Brown Thrasher
- Canada Warbler
- Cerulean Warbler
- Chestnut-sided Warbler
- Eastern Bluebird
- Eastern Wood-Pewee
- Louisiana Waterthrush
- Northern Parula
- Ovenbird
- Red-eyed Vireo
- Rose-breasted Grosbeak
- Ruffed Grouse
- Scarlet Tanager
- Swainson’s Warbler
- Veery
- Wood Thrush
- Yellow-throated Vireo
- Yellow-throated Warbler
Animals
Wildlife abounds in Frozen Head.
Explore the park's trails and keep an eye out for the diverse fauna calling this wilderness home.
Animal Species
- Butterflies
- Bats (various species, e.g., Big Brown Bat)
- Wild Turkey
- Rabbits
- Opossums
- Skunks
- Raccoon
- Foxes
- Bobcats
- Coyote
- Wild Boar
- White-tailed Deer
- Black Bear
Inspiration
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