Nestled in the Tennessee’s northern border of the Upper Cumberland watershed in Campbell County, Indian Mountain State Park offers 203 acres of beautiful nature and several different activities for the whole family to enjoy. Not only is the park a fun place to visit, it also has an interesting historical background for the state of Tennessee and visitors who enjoy education.
After the strip-mining pits were abandoned, the state of Tennessee reclaimed the land and converted it into state owned recreational property. Utilizing grants from the state, the Appalachian Resources Commission and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, the land officially became Indian Mountain State Park in 1971.
Although the name includes “Mountain”, the actual park is at the base of the mountain and the activities available are more water related than mountain. Here are some outdoor activities available at the historic Indian Mountain State Park.
Camping
Open year round, Indian Mountain State Park offers an impressive 47 campgrounds on the premises. Sites are available to both tents and RVs and have available sewers, water, tables, grills and amp hookups. Restrooms with showers with heated water are also included, however you should note the water is turned off from November to March.
Fishing
Stocked with catfish, bass and bluegill fish, Indian Mountain “B” Lake is a great recreational fishing spot. Bring your own kayak, canoe or motorboat to relax and catch some fish on this scenic lake. Rowboats are also available for renting during the summer months for $4 an hour.
Paddle boarding and Kayaking
In addition to allowing personal kayaks, canoes and motorboats on the lake, there is additional water equipment available for rental. Per person, pedal boats are $2.50/hour and both paddleboards and kayaks are $7/hour. You can take the whole family out to the lake and everyone can choose their lake activity.
Hiking
At the base of Indian Mountain, the hiking trails are short and sweet. None of the trails are longer than a mile but are sure to be a fun walk with lots of nature to enjoy. The Indian Trail is the longest at a mile long. Ballard Lake Trail and Airplane Pond Trail are a little shorter with Elk Creek Trail and Boy Scout Trail measuring about a half-mile.
Bird Watching
If you are a bird enthusiast, Indian Mountain State Park’s streams and lakeshores are a great place to spot some species. Waterfowl are particularly prominent in the area. Grab your binoculars and look out for these native birds.
Indian Mountain State Park also offers picnic grounds and onsite bathrooms. With an interesting historical past, this is a great 213-acre park to enjoy some leisure time.
