Big Hill Pond State Park

Big Hill Pond State Park encompasses nearly 5,000 acres near Pocahontas, TN. The park offers opportunities for exploring both the natural and human history of the area and is explorable on foot, on a bike, in a boat or even on horseback.

History

The area was first settled by homesteaders in the early nineteenth century and remnants of a fireplace, relics of those first settlers, still stand. Big Hill Pond itself is man made. It was created in the 1850s as a result of the Memphis to Charleston Railroad line being built. During the Civil War, earthworks were built for guarding the line, and they remain as a major attraction for the park.

Exploring

Thirty miles of trails wind their way throughout the park and are open to hikers. Fourteen miles are also accessible to bikers and horseback riders. Boaters and four-wheel drive vehicles can more fully explore Big Hill Pond and its cypress stands. Other attractions include a 0.8 mile boardwalk through the Dismal Swamp, several oxbow lakes, Civil War earthworks and a 70-foot tall observation tower.

Camping

Overnight adventurers have a wide variety of options. A developed campground is available, which is ideal for families or those wanting a more relaxing experience. Larger groups, such as scout troops, are accommodated at one of four larger campsites. For those liking a little more seclusion, there are four shelters available to backpackers.

Big Hill Pond State Park truly offers something for nearly everyone, whether it is visiting for just a few hours for a picnic or spending several nights camping and exploring the area. The park offers a very unique mix of activities.