EXPLORE

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OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Stewart County, Tennessee, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn to the water or the woods, you’ll find endless opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and camping in scenic locations like Land Between the Lakes and Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge. Miles of trails invite hikers and bird watchers to explore diverse landscapes teeming with wildlife.

Expansive public lands are ideal for hunting adventures, and the well-maintained campgrounds offer the perfect base for your outdoor explorations. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat in nature or an action-packed adventure, this getaway is filled with the best of Tennessee’s great outdoors.

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outdoor activities

Fishing & Boating

If you’re craving an exhilarating day on the water, Stewart County is your ultimate destination. With easy access to the expansive Kentucky Lake, Lake Barkley, and the Cumberland River, this region is a playground for water sports enthusiasts. Water skiing, wakeboarding, or tubing, the calm, spacious waters provide the perfect backdrop for water adventure.

For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, a pontoon pleasure cruise on these beautiful lakes and rivers offers the perfect way to relax and take in the stunning scenery. Imagine spending the day floating along, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the peaceful serenity of the water.

outdoor activities

Birdwatching

Travel in for a birdwatcher’s paradise, where nature enthusiasts can immerse themselves in a diverse array of avian species in stunning natural settings. Here, you can spot majestic bald eagles soaring overhead, graceful great blue herons wading in wetlands, and vibrant songbirds like the Northern cardinal and Eastern bluebird flitting through the trees.

As you explore the trails and waterways, you’ll also encounter waterfowl such as wood ducks and Canada geese, along with seasonal visitors like the American white pelican during migration periods. The area’s diverse habitats, ranging from forests and wetlands to open fields and lakeshores, provide ample opportunities to observe and photograph these magnificent creatures in their natural environment.

outdoor activities

Hunting

A premier destination for hunting enthusiasts, we have vast and diverse landscapes that are rich with wildlife. The county’s public hunting lands, including the renowned Land Between the Lakes and Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge, provide hunters with ample opportunities to pursue game such as deer, turkey, waterfowl, and small game. The variety of habitats—from dense woodlands to open fields—ensures a rewarding experience in the great outdoors.

Our well-maintained hunting areas and supportive local resources make it easy to plan your trip, with local outfitters and guides available. It’s the perfect setting to enjoy the thrill of the chase and the beauty of Tennessee’s wild landscapes.

outdoor activities

Hiking

We have trails that cater to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned adventurers. For those just starting out or looking for a more leisurely walk, the area around Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge offers easy, scenic trails that wind through serene wetlands and along peaceful lakeshores. The gentle terrain and abundance of wildlife make these trails perfect for families or anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing day immersed in nature.

For more experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the trails at Land Between the Lakes provide a variety of options that showcase the region’s rugged beauty. Advanced hikers can tackle longer, more strenuous routes that take them deep into dense forests and up to stunning overlooks, where panoramic views of Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley await. 

LAND BETWEEN THE LAKES

Land Between the Lakes is a breathtaking outdoor paradise where you can immerse yourself in nature’s beauty through endless activities like hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife spotting. Explore miles of scenic trails, encounter bison roaming free, and enjoy serene lakeside camping under the stars.

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BISON RANGE

The South Bison Range at Land Between the Lakes in Tennessee offers a rare and thrilling opportunity to witness one of North America’s most iconic animals in their natural habitat. As you drive through the range, you’ll be captivated by the sight of majestic bison roaming freely across the expansive grasslands, grazing, and interacting as they have for centuries. The close-up views of these magnificent creatures, set against the backdrop of rolling hills and wide-open skies, create an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Beyond the excitement of seeing bison, the South Bison Range also provides a chance to learn about the conservation efforts that have helped protect and preserve this species. Interpretive signs along the route offer insights into the history and ecology of the bison, making your visit both educational and awe-inspiring.

Land between the Lakes

Iron furnace ruins

The Iron Furnace Ruins at Land Between the Lakes and various locations throughout the county are a fascinating window into the region’s industrial past, offering visitors a chance to explore the remnants of a once-thriving iron industry that fueled the nation’s growth in the 19th century. As you approach these well-preserved ruins, you’ll be struck by the sheer size and craftsmanship of the stone structures, which stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era of iron production.

Visiting the Iron Furnace Ruins is not just a step back in time, but also an opportunity to learn about the people and technology that shaped the early industrial landscape of Tennessee. Interpretive signs provide insights into the iron-making process, the challenges faced by the workers, and the significance of these furnaces in American history. 

Land between the Lakes

1850s Homeplace

The 1850s Homeplace at Land Between the Lakes offers a captivating journey back in time, where visitors can experience the everyday life of a mid-19th century farm. As you step onto the historic grounds, you’ll find yourself immersed in a living history museum, complete with authentically restored log cabins, barns, and outbuildings. Costumed interpreters bring the past to life, demonstrating traditional skills like blacksmithing, weaving, and farming, allowing you to witness firsthand how families worked and lived in the 1850s.

Beyond the hands-on activities, the 1850s Homeplace offers a unique glimpse into the culture and traditions of early American settlers. The farm is not just a static exhibit; it’s a working farm, with heritage breed animals, heirloom crops, and seasonal events that reflect the rhythms of life as it was over 150 years ago. Whether you’re a history buff, a family looking for an educational outing, or simply someone who appreciates stepping into the past, the 1850s Homeplace provides a rich, immersive experience that will leave you with a deep appreciation for the history and heritage of the region.

Land between the Lakes

Campgrounds

The campgrounds at Land Between the Lakes offer an opportunity to connect with nature in one of Tennessee’s most stunning landscapes. Imagine waking up to the sound of birds chirping, with the morning mist rising off the water, ready to explore miles of hiking trails or spend the day fishing and boating. With well-maintained facilities and a range of amenities, including RV hookups and tent sites, the campgrounds provide a comfortable base for your outdoor adventures.

Beyond the natural beauty, staying at the Land Between the Lakes campgrounds offers a chance to fully immerse yourself in the region’s rich heritage and wildlife. From stargazing under the vast, clear night skies to gathering around a campfire with family and friends, every moment spent here is a chance to create lasting memories.

ADDITIONAL WILDLIFE AREAS

STANDING ROCK CREEK

STANDING ROCK CREEK

At Standing Rock Creek, visitors will discover a tranquil setting perfect for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife observation. The creek's clear waters and lush surroundings offer a peaceful escape, ideal for a relaxing day on the water or a quiet nature walk along its banks. Whether you're casting a line for bass or simply enjoying the serene environment, Standing Rock Creek provides a refreshing retreat into nature.

LICK CREEK

LICK CREEK

Lick Creek is a scenic waterway surrounded by lush forests, making it an ideal spot for paddle boats, birdwatching, and peaceful nature walks to spot local fauna in their natural habitat. Visitors can enjoy fishing in its clear, calm waters, where bass and catfish are abundant, or simply relax along the creek's tranquil banks, soaking in the natural beauty.

DYERS CREEK

DYERS CREEK

Dyers Creek offers a serene environment perfect for fishing, boating, and kayaking, with its calm waters teeming with bass and other fish. The picturesque creek is also a great spot for birdwatching and wildlife photography, providing visitors with peaceful encounters with nature. Paddling through its quiet waters and then enjoying a leisurely picnic along its banks.

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CROSS CREEKS

CROSS CREEKS

Cross Creeks Wildlife Refuge is idyllic for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a diverse landscape of wetlands, forests, and open water that attracts a wide array of bird species, including migratory waterfowl. Visitors can explore the refuge's well-maintained trails, perfect for hiking and photography, while taking in the serene beauty of the natural surroundings. With opportunities for fishing, boating, and observing wildlife, Cross Creeks provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to connect with nature.

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