Red Clay State Park

In the southeast corner of Tennessee, just north of the Georgia border, Red Clay State Park sits on 263 acres. This crucial site in the history of both the Cherokee nation and the United States features a museum, building replicas and hiking trails.

The path to the Trail of Tears

The area around Red Clay State Park was the last seat of the Cherokee government. Eleven councils were held there before 1838, when the U.S military began the forced westward migration of the Native American tribes. This migration, called the Trail of Tears, left the vast majority of the Cherokee nation in Oklahoma, far from its traditional lands. Traces of the Cherokee still remain at the site, however. Visitors can see Blue Hole Spring, which supplied the Cherokee with water during their councils. In addition, they can visit the James F. Corn Interpretive Center, which houses exhibits describing Cherokee culture and features a stunning series of stained glass windows depicting scenes from the Trail of Tears. Replicas of typical Cherokee buildings allow visitors to understand the daily life of the Cherokee before their forced emigration.

Other activities and facilities

Red Clay State Park features a 1.7 mile trail that leads to an overlook tower, as well as a short nature trail where visitors can spot butterflies and damselflies. Throughout the year, the park hosts a variety of special events, such as genealogy workshops, Cherokee gatherings and craft fairs. Visitors who wish to stay the whole day can use the picnic area, which includes tables and grills.

The Trail of Tears is one of the most significant tragedies in American history, and Red Clay State Park is an important part of that history. Visit this park to understand Cherokee culture and history, and see a piece of the wondrous natural beauty that exists in this part of Tennessee.