Reelfoot Lake State Park
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  • Sunset with vibrant pink and orange clouds over a lake and silhouetted trees.
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    Reelfoot Lake State Park, encompassing 280 non-contiguous acres, is a natural wonder born from the New Madrid earthquakes of 1811 and 1812. This unique lake, the only large naturally occurring lake in Tennessee, is a haven for wildlife and offers visitors a chance to experience a truly distinctive ecosystem. Explore the shoreline wetlands, observe American bald eagles, and discover the rich history and natural beauty that make Reelfoot Lake State Park a must-see destination.
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    Safety and Accessibility

    • Safety

      Reelfoot Lake State Park is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors. Be aware of strong currents near the Spillway Dam when water is flowing. Always be aware of your surroundings, as water levels and weather conditions can change rapidly. When operating a motorized boat, run with motor trimmed up on idle if not familiar with underwater hazards of Reelfoot Lake and please wear a lifejacket.   

    • Accessibility  

      Reelfoot Lake State Park strives to make its facilities and programs accessible to all visitors. The park offers accessible parking, restrooms, and trails, ensuring that everyone can experience the beauty and wonder of Reelfoot Lake. Upon request, a ADA all-terrain wheelchair is available for use at Reelfoot Lake State Park with advance registration. ADA kayak launch is available at Kirby Pocket.

      More Accessibility Details

    • 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. 

      Find Out How

    Want to Stay Overnight?

    Camp Store

    The park’s camp store is your best spot for finding gear, snacks and accessories to make your camping experience exceptional. The camp store is your go-to destination for a cold drink, a can of chili, or those matches you forgot to pack. 

    Hours: Seasonal Hours

    Experiences Not to Be Missed

      • Exhibit of a wooden cabin and indigenous hut in a museum setting.

      Donaldson Memorial Museum and Nature Center

      Non-releasable raptors, snakes, and other wildlife from the area call the nature center home, giving us the opportunity to study and enjoy learning about them and their habitats. The museum is open year-round excluding Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. Admission is free.   

      • Two bald eagles in a large tree nest on a clear day.

      Reelfoot Eagle Festival

      Held daily in January and February, these tours celebrate the park's resident eagle population and highlights in excess of 200 migrating eagles that nest in the area over the winter months. The Reelfoot Lake State Park annual Eagle Fest offers popular eagle tours by van, educational programs, and family-friendly activities. Advance reservations are recommended as the tours are in high demand.  Check out our Park Happenings to learn more.
      • Bald eagle with piercing eyes against a blurred green background.

      Aviary

      Get an up-close view of our bald eagles and other animal ambassadors at the Reelfoot Lake State Park Aviary.  

      • Serene lakeside scene with autumn trees, vibrant orange and green foliage. A wooden dock extends over calm water, creating a peaceful, natural atmosphere.

      Visitor Center

      Our accessible parking, restrooms and gift shop at the visitor center helps get a trip to Reelfoot Lake off to a good start. Don’t forget to check out the Cypress Boardwalk behind the center. Ask for directions!  

    Park Activities

    Park Amenities

    • Aviary
    • Birding
    • Boat Ramp
    • Boat Access
    • Cabins
    • Campground
    • Canoe Access
    • Fishing
    • Gift Shop
    • Trails
    • Laundromat
    • Meeting Rooms
    • Museum
    • Playground
    • Visitor Center
    • Accessible Paddling Launch
    • Adult-Sized Changing Table
    • All-Terrain Wheelchair
    • Wheelchair-Friendly Paved Trails

    Inspiration

    Get Inspired

    Park Venues

      • Empty hall with rows of brown chairs, wooden ceiling, and large window at the front.

      Ellington Auditorium

      Indoor Venue 

      Square Feet: 3,700 
      Capacity: 400 
      Minimum Rental: 1 Day 
      Availability: Year-round 
      Rates: Monday - Thursday: $300
      Friday - Sunday $350 

      The Ellington Auditorium is ideal for banquets, reunions, weddings, and meetings. Seats 400 people theater-style or 240 people banquet-style. Some audio/visual equipment is available, and outside catering can provide food and beverages. 

      • Outdoor picnic shelter with tables, surrounded by trees, under a clear sky.

      Eagle Basin

      Outdoor Venue

      Capacity: Varies
      Rate: $121 

      Premier wedding location overlooking Reelfoot Lake.  

      • Park pavilion with picnic tables near a lake, surrounded by trees.

      Bluebank Bridge

       Outdoor Venue 

      Capacity: Varies 
      Rate: $121 

      Small bridge leading to the lake.  

    • Sunset over a calm lake with silhouettes of trees.

    Pavilions

    Reelfoot Lake has a total of three pavilions that may be reserved for your next event or gathering. The shelters offer gorgeous views of the lake and are excellent locations for birdwatching and other wildlife viewing.  

    Capacity: 60 - 75 
    Amenities: Picnic tables, grill, and access to restrooms 
    Rates: $60 - $75

    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. 

    Reserve Now

    Visit The Gift Shop

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

    Address: 
    2595 Highway 21 Tiptonville, TN 38079

    Hours: 
    8:00 AM — 4:00 PM CST

     

    For Schools

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

    Request a Program

    GOLD

    More Sustainability Information

  • Energy Efficiency

    Built energy-efficient cabins that are available for rent and participate in the TVA Green Power Switch program.  

  • Eco-Friendly Practices

    Plant butterfly attracting plants, manage controlled burns, prevent erosion with tent pads that are man-made surfaces that protect the ground from damage caused by repeatedly setting up a tent in the same spot.  

    • Gift Shops and Stores

    Visitor Center Gift Shop 

    2595 Highway 21 
    Tiptonville, TN 38079
    United States

    1-731-253-9652
    Hours

    Daily
    8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

    Park Camp Store 

    6812 Hwy 21 W
    Tiptonville, TN 38079
    United States

    1-731-538-3356
    Hours

    Seasonal. Please call for more information.   

    Contact Information

    Reelfoot Lake State Park Office

    2595 Highway 21
    Tiptonville, TN 38079
    United States

    1-731-253-9652
    Additional Information

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