Seven Islands Highlights
A Symphony of Wing
Step into a world where the air vibrates with the songs of hundreds of bird species, and the French Broad River meanders through a landscape sculpted by time and nature. Seven Islands State Birding Park is a haven for avian life and a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts. But there's more to this park than meets the eye. Discover for yourself the hidden gems and unique stories that make Seven Islands a must-visit destination.
Discover Seven Islands State Birding Park
Seven Islands State Birding Park exists as a testament to conservation and the power of reclaiming land for nature. Once a landscape primarily used for farming, it has been transformed into a thriving habitat for a diverse array of bird species. The park's story is one of intentional design, and carefully managed grasslands, wetlands, and forests working in harmony to create an ideal environment for birds and other wildlife. The park beckons visitors to witness this remarkable transformation, to walk the trails and discover the beauty of a landscape reborn as a sanctuary for birds.
History
Seven Islands State Birding Park was established in 2014, marking a new chapter for land with a rich history of agriculture.
Before becoming a park, the area was primarily farmland, shaping the landscape with fields and pastures. The park's name pays homage to the Seven Islands Community, a historic settlement across the French Broad River.
While the park itself is relatively young, the land it occupies has witnessed centuries of history. Mills, ferries, farming, and steamboats once thrived along the French Broad River, leaving their mark on the area. The park's historic structures, including the Bluebird Barn, Green House, and Maple Leaf Barns, stand as reminders of this agricultural past, dating back to the early 1900s.
Today, Seven Islands State Birding Park is dedicated to preserving both its natural and cultural heritage. Preservation efforts have focused on repairing and maintaining the historic structures, ensuring that future generations can learn about the area's past. While not currently on the historic registry, these structures tell the story of farming and community life along the French Broad River. Current research is also being done about the Native Americans who lived along the French Broad River, specifically the Cherokee and Yuchi tribes.
In addition to preserving Seven Island’s natural resources, future planning and management at the park put a new focus on improving accessibility. We are pleased to announce that an ADA trail, pedestrian bridge, accessible kayak launch, and island loop trail are open for public use and enjoyment.
From the Rangers
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The Perfect Day
Start your day with a hike along the Bobwhite Trail, leading to the iconic Pedestrian Bridge over the French Broad River. From there, explore the Island Loop Trail on Newman's Island, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the park's diverse birdlife. End your day with a relaxing moment at the observation deck over Upland Pond, soaking in the tranquility of this natural haven.
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Insider Information
For a more secluded experience, venture onto the Upland Trail, Kelly Lane Greenway, or Hickory Ridge Trail. Keep an eye out for American kestrels near the Green House and bald eagles soaring along the river. Visit early in the day to witness the greatest variety of birds, as the park comes alive with their morning chorus.
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Know Before You Go
Cell service is generally reliable throughout the park, with a few spotty areas along some trails. There is no public Wi-Fi available. The French Broad River can have swift currents, so always wear personal flotation devices and check the release schedule at Douglas Dam before swimming or boating.
Please keep bicycles on the paved surfaces and bridge only. Fishing from the bridge is not permitted. Please be aware that water under the bridge is very shallow, so diving and swimming are prohibited.
Land and Water
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Trails
Seven Islands State Birding Park boasts over nine miles of trails, winding through grasslands, forests, and along the French Broad River. These trails offer diverse opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the park's scenic beauty.
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Water Features
The French Broad River is a defining feature of Seven Islands State Birding Park, offering opportunities for paddling, wading, and fishing. Wayne's Pond and Schumpert's Pond are also great for wildlife viewing.
Plants
Seven Islands State Birding Park showcases a diverse array of flora, including native warm-season grasses and other prairie plants.
The park's landscape changes throughout the year, with wildflowers blooming in the fields from June to September. Join a Park Ranger for a guided walk to learn more about the unique plants that thrive in this carefully managed habitat.
Birds
From the novice to the professional, birders and researchers find Seven Islands State Birding Park an ideal location for avian observation.
The park is a haven for birdlife, with over 220 species recorded. In the winter, look for sparrows, kinglets, and northern harriers. Summer species include indigo buntings, common yellowthroat warblers, and yellow-breasted chats.
Bird Species
- American Goldfinch
- Bald Eagle
- Belted Kingfisher
- Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
- Broad-winged Hawk
- Caspian Tern
- Common Yellowthroat
- Downy Woodpecker
- Eastern Bluebird
- Eastern Kingbird
- Field Sparrow
- Forster's Tern
- Great Blue Heron
- Great Crested Flycatcher
- Great Egret
- Green Heron
- Gull
- Hermit Thrush
- Indigo Bunting
- Northern Bobwhite
- Northern Harrier
- Orchard Oriole
- Osprey
- Barn Owl
- Peregrine Falcon
- Pileated Woodpecker
- Prairie Warbler
- Prothonotary Warbler
- Red-bellied Woodpecker
- Ruby-crowned Kinglet
- Spotted Sandpiper
- Savannah Sparrow
- Scarlet Tanager
- Song Sparrow
- Summer Tanager
- Barn Swallow
- Swamp Sparrow
- Tree Swallow
- Warblers
- Waterfowl
- White-crowned Sparrow
- White-eyed Vireo
- White-throated Sparrow
- Wild Turkey
- Winter Wren
- American Woodcock
- Yellow-billed Cuckoo
- Yellow-breasted Chat
- Yellow-throated Vireo
- American Kestrel
- Fox Sparrow
- Greater Yellowlegs
- Lesser Yellowlegs
- Long-Billed Dowitcher
- Merlin
- Purple Finch
- Semipalmated Plover
- Short-Billed Dowitcher
Animals
The State of Tennessee manages this state park for native flora and fauna and low-impact, non-consumptive, outdoor activities for the enjoyment of the wildlife diversity and natural beauty of Seven Islands State Birding Park.
In addition to being a wildlife refuge popular for hiking and wildlife observation, the park is a research and educational facility for schools and other groups and a demonstration area for land use and habitat management techniques.
Animal Species
- Northern Bobwhite
- Indigo Bunting
- Yellow-breasted Chat
- Bay Ducks (Generic)
- Belted Kingfisher
- Great Blue Heron
- Green Heron
- Bald Eagle
- Muskrats
- American Beaver
- Otters
- Deer
- Grassland Birds
Inspiration
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