The 652-mile stretch of the Tennessee River is lined not only with scenic natural landscapes and fascinating wildlife, but also diverse, charming, and historic communities eager to welcome travelers as they have for centuries. Each mile provides a new adventure, from quiet escapes to riverside campgrounds, resorts, parks, and wildlife refuges, to breathtaking museums, Civil […]
Explore Tennessee RiverTowns Read More »
In the summer of 2026, the Chattanooga-based organization WaterWays is launching an exciting initiative called the “Swim Spot Report.” This project focuses on providing weekly water monitoring for popular swim spots in the Chattanooga region, including Greenway Farm Quarry, Big Soddy Creek Gulf, Audubon Acres, Rainbow Lake, Middle Creek, and Suck Creek. Read more. Note: Reports will be
WaterWays Launches Swim Spot Report for Chattanooga Region Read More »
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and Appalachian Bear Rescue (ABR) are announcing that ABR will resume rehabilitation of orphaned black bear cubs from Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and the Big South Fork National Recreation Area. Initially, ABR will have capacity to accept six black bear cubs in newly constructed pens at their facility in Townsend,
TWRA-ABR to Resume Black Bear Cub Rehabilitation Read More »
Spotlight: Southeast The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation has announced $20 million in conservation grants to restore, enhance and protect longleaf pine forests across nine southern states. The grants will leverage more than $18.6 million in matching contributions to generate a total conservation impact of $38.6 million. Twenty-five projects will impact more than 380,000 acres
$20 Million in Grants Awarded to Restore Longleaf Pine Habitat Across the Southeast Read More »
From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the depths of its caves, Tennessee is a state that is home to some incredible animals, particularly salamanders. Learn what natural features make Tennessee so hospitable to these iconic amphibians and how humans can keep them from harm. Read more. Ben Prater and Allison Cook – Defenders of Wildlife
Salamanders of Tennessee Read More »
Come celebrate, support, and learn more about our new park, Head of the Crow, on Friday, July 17 and Saturday, July 18. Friends of the Parks is hosting Something to Crow About, a Friday night info-dance party to raise awareness and support for the park. Ticket holders will have an opportunity to sign up for curated
Learn About Head of the Crow State Park at Something to Crow About – July 17 Read More »
In Tennessee, waterfalls aren’t rare surprises, they’re world-class landmarks. From the Cumberland Plateau to the Smokies and beyond, these icons of nature are woven into the very fabric of our landscape, making for some of the best waterfall hikes on the planet. This guide highlights some of the very best waterfall hikes across the state —
Best Waterfall Hikes in Tennessee Read More »
The Chattanooga Audubon Society is partnering with Chattanooga Riverboat Company and National Park City to bring unforgettable eco-adventures to the Tennessee River! Maclellan Island Eco Tours offer a guided experience from downtown Chattanooga to one of the Tennessee River’s most remarkable hidden natural areas. Guests will travel by boat to Maclellan Island, where a knowledgeable guide will provide interpretation both enroute
Maclellan Island Eco Tours Offered June Through October Read More »
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency has announced the second annual Tennessee Biodiversity Summit will take place on October 21, 2026, at Middle Tennessee State University. All wildlife enthusiasts, including experts, birdwatchers, hunters, and anyone interested in nature, are invited to participate in this experience packed with opportunities to learn about wildlife diversity, habitats, and conservation in Tennessee.
TWRA to Host Second Annual Tennessee Biodiversity Summit – Oct. 21 Read More »
Spotlight: Southeast The country’s most-visited national park will soon be growing, thanks to a land acquisition by a nonprofit a conservation organization. Recently, the Foothills Land Conservancy announced it purchased what’s known as the “Oliver Tract,” a 638-acre property in Blount County, Tenn., on the western border of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Read more.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Set to Expand by 600-Plus Acres Read More »