Looking for a true wilderness experience? Frozen Head State Park and Natural Area promises just that. With ice-capped mountain wilderness, the state park offers acres upon acres of untouched mountain wilderness in the peaks of the Cumberland mountains. Just off the South Fork of the Cumberland watershed, this scenic location offers a true nature experience and stunning views of the Cumberland basin.
Commonly described as “primitive”, true lovers of the outdoors will love the 20 campsites and the 50 miles of hiking trails. Here are some highlights of Frozen Head State Park for those with a pioneer heart.
3 Levels of Camping Options
Frozen Head State Park caters more towards a seasoned and experienced outdoorsperson, yet there are different options of campsites offered if you don’t wish to be too hardcore.
Big Cove Camping
The most modern of the three, this camping site offers hot showers and clean drinking water. Picnic tables as well as basic cooking resources such as a sink basin and grill are offered, however electricity and water hook ups are not.
Primitive Camping
The Flat Fork Primitive Group Site Area is adjacent to the Flat Fork Creek between trail heads and a picnic area. Although not equipped with the amenities of Big Cove Camping Sites, the primitive camping sites are sure to host a great time for nature lovers.
Backcountry Camping
For those truly looking for an authentic Cumberland basin adventure, reserve your spot for the backcountry camping experience in advance. This is not recommended for first time campers or hikers! With many regulations to keep visitors safe, please be sure to check the website to make sure you are prepared and following the mandates of this beautiful state park.
Reservations are required for all 3 camping experiences.
Boating and Boating Education Camp
Boating education is offered at Harrison Bay, Paris Landing and Tims Ford. After completing a week long program, participants will receive a TWRA boating certification and proceed to learn several different disciplines of boating. Paddle boards, large shipping vessels, power boats and more will be included in this exciting and adventurous program.
Geocaching
A unique feature of Frozen Head State Park is its participation in geocaching. This GPS and smart phone based hobby alerts geocachers to locations of “treasures” – usually mundane objects; the thrill is the adventure rather than the reward. Tennessee State Parks has linked their ranger’s office to the geocaching app to log discoveries and monitor geocaching activity. The convergence of nature and technology geocaching offers at Frozen Head State Park offers makes it a very unique attraction of the South Fork watershed. Fill out your application and start your treasure hunting now.
Fishing
Head out to Flat Fork Creek and catch some rainbow trout February through March. Fishing is allowed with a TWRA trout stamp but the park does not offer boats for rent and provides no boat launch ramps.
Stonecipher-Kelly House
The oldest standing building in Morgan County is available for ranger-led tours. Nestled in the upper Cumberland mountains, historians have records of this structure involved in the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, the American Civil War, and WWI. Because of its historical significance, the building is not open to the public. Tours are available on a monthly basis.
Frozen Head State Park also offers several educational programs for afterschool and summer activities for children. One of the more untouched areas of the Cumberland basin, this park offers a true pioneer experience.
