The humidity hasn’t shown its face yet this year, but the weather is warm in the day and cool in the evening. It’s the perfect time to get outdoors! West Tennessee has some beautiful state parks to explore! Whether you like to relax near the lake, take a hike off the beaten path, or roast s’mores, a park is the place for you.
T.O. Fuller State Park
The closest state park just south of Memphis, located in Shelby County is T.O. Fuller State Park. The 1,138 acres is filled with great areas for birdwatching and seeing other wildlife, more than 6-miles of hiking trails, shelters and a swimming pool. There are 45 campsites that are RV accessible as well.
Events at T.O. Fuller State Park
June 7 – Youth Fishing Rodeo & National Trails Day Hike
August 2 – Fuller Fest
Meeman-Shelby Forest 
State Park
With a new Manager, Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park is about to have some new and exciting events! The 13,576 acre park boarders the Mississippi river and is only 13 miles north of Memphis. Here there are beautiful Cypress and Tupelo swamps. Within in the park there is a Nature Center, more than 20 miles of hiking trails, horsebacj riding, camping (including cabins), disc golf, fishing for bass, bluegill, and catfish, and biking.
Events at Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
May 16th @ 11:30 am – Introduction of the New Manager
June 7 – National Trails Day Hike
Fort Pillow State Park
If you are interested in Civil War history, this is where you should visit. 40 miles north of Memphis, Fort Pillow State Park has trails through the bluff overlooking the Mississippi River that will take you to the reconstructed fort. The 1,642 acre park was built by the Confederate troops in 1861 and named after General Gideon J. Pillow and used until 1862 when the Union Navy advanced down the Mississippi River. But this park isn’t for just history buffs, there are 32 campsites, a great place to bird watch, picnics, fishing, and more.
Events at Fort Pillow State Park
May 24 – Memorial Day Celebration
June 7 – National Trails Day – Guided hike
June 14 – Youth Fishing Rodeo
June 4 – Independence Day Celebration