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Camping Near Burgess Falls State Park

When Is The Best Time To Visit Burgess Falls

Burgess Falls State Park | Beautiful Waterfalls In Tennessee | Cinematic Hiking

Burgess Falls State Park is open year-round but is closed on days of high precipitation due to the volatility of the Falling Water River. The period between March and November is considered to be the most beautiful. Weekends in the park are usually very busy so coming on a weekday might be the best idea. The area can also be stunning during the winter when freezing temps create icicles.

How To Get To Burgess Falls

The entrance to Burgess Falls State Park is situated just off Tennessee State Route 135, around halfway between Sparta and Cookeville. If you are driving to the park from Sparta, Tennessee, choose the intersection Hwy 70 & Hwy 111, then go north on Hwy 111 to Hwy 135/County Hwy 1142 and turn west to get to the park. The River Trail is a moderately tough hike taking visitors past the waterfalls. The half-mile Ridge Top Trail is very picturesque, with a view down the prime canyon of Falling Water River.

Burgess Falls Class I Scenic

Burgess Falls is a 217-acre natural area in Putnam and White Counties and is located approximately thirteen miles southwest of Cookeville. It is managed by Tennessee State Parks. Burgess Falls lies on the rugged dissected eastern edge of the Eastern Highland Rim resulting in the occurrence of sheer bluffs, narrow ridges, waterfalls, and diverse forest communities. It was named for Tom Burgess. For many decades the Burgess family provided settlers with meal and cut lumber from their grist mill and lumber mill on Falling Water River above the falls.

Burgess Falls is most noted for its scenic value as Falling Water River drops nearly 250 feet over three waterfalls. The last of these falls is the most spectacular and begins where the water comes to the sharp edge of the riverbed and plunges more than 130 feet into the gorge. Protruding rocks halfway down break the curtain of water and spread a mist around the base of the falls. The bluffs rise on each side of the gorge framing the falls in rough gray rock. A steep trail leads to the edge of the falls, and a stairway leads into the gorge.

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Tennessee Travel: Planning A Day Trip To Burgess Falls State Park

One promise I made to myself earlier this year was that wed spend more time outdoors, both for Ellas well-being but also our own. Tennessee is peppered with state parks56, to be exact!and natural areas for days. But health and a need for fresh air aside, there are also plenty of parks Ive yet to take SVV to, and he cant call himself a true Tennessean without having experienced these iconic spots.

Mountain Glen Rv Park And Campground

Spring Lake RV Resort: Crossville, Tennessee

Address: Mountain Glen RV Park and Campground is located at 6182 Brockdell Rd, Pikeville, TN 37367.

About the Campground: Mountain Glen RV Park and Campground has 41 full-hook-up RV sites and 8 tent sites available for guests. All RV sites are pull-through and include 20/30/50 amp service. In addition, the sites are big-rig friendly and range from 60 to 90 feet in length. Free WiFi is offered to guests, as well as a modern bathhouse. Not only is there a general store, but you will also be able to do your laundry at their coin machines. If fishing is your thing, there is a 2-acre stocked pond for catch and release fishing.

Price: RV sites are $34 daily and $205 Weekly. On the other hand, tent sites are $24 daily for electricity and water or $22 for dry camping.

Pro Tip:Campgrounds fill up quickly, especially in the summer! Make reservations well in advance of your trip if you want to be sure of having a spot.

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Burgess Falls State Park

Burgess Falls State Park

Burgess Falls State Park is a state park and state natural area in Putnam County and White County, Tennessee, located in the southeastern United States. The park is situated around a steep gorge in which the Falling Water River drops 250 feet in elevation in less than a mile, culminating in a 136-foot cataract waterfall.

The Burgess Falls State Natural Area, which covers 350 acres , is managed by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation.

Summary Of Burgess Falls State Park

Overall, we had an amazing time at Burgess Falls State Park. It is a fairly easy trail to do with your family and the gorgeous waterfalls make it worthwhile. I cant wait to go back again.

Have you ever been to Burgess Falls State Park? How did you like it? Which waterfall did you like best?

You can check out more of ourTennessee travel guides here if you like. Also, if you enjoyed this article feel free to or follow our adventures on so you can stay up to date on upcoming travel adventures, tips, gear reviews, recipes and more. Dont forget to share or pin to save it. Thank you for reading.

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This Tennessee State Park Features Three Waterfalls

Burgess Falls State Park is one of the most beautiful natural wonders in all of Tennessee.

Located on the eastern edge of the states Highland Rim between Nashville and Knoxville, the park features three dramatic waterfalls along the Falling Water River. The first, appropriately known as First Falls, can be seen-and heard-from the parks parking lot and picnic area.

This waterfall spills rapidly over layers of rocks and green reeds, and is especially beautiful in autumn. From here, a hiking path lined with wildflowers and mushrooms takes you to Middle Falls, which looks like a large, lacy bridal veil.

For the grand finale, the path leads to an overlook platform at Big Falls, also called Burgess Falls, the largest of the three. These thundering falls are 130 feet tall, and the view is breathtaking.

You can also take a path that leads under the falls. Its wonderful to stand here and feel the cool spray on your face.

The primary trail past the three waterfalls, known as the river trail, is about 3/4 of a mile long. Its moderately rugged and is open only to foot traffic.

Burgess Falls is named after Tom Burgess, who was deeded the land here in 1793 by the U.S. government for his services in the Revolutionary War. It abuts the Cumberland Plateau, so the area is filled with high bluffs, ridges and woodlands.

Hiking Trails At Burgess Falls

Burgess Falls State Park – Sparta, TN

Burgess Falls State Park has three gorgeous trails for you to take. We did two of them when we visited. The two trails we took were the River Trail and Base of Falls Trail. Overall it took us about 1.5-2 hours. We did stop at every single overlook and beautiful scenic spot to take photos and give the little ones a break.

The trail is very well kept and fairly easy. It does some have stairs on the trails which may be a little difficult for children so take it easy with them on these areas. Overall the park all together was amazing and very clean.

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Book Top Burgess Falls Cabins For A Weekend Getaway In Tennessee

Nestled in the woods on a rocky cliff above two valleys and a stream, this secluded camping cabin rental is located on a farm near Burgess Falls State Park, Tennessee, and can accommodate two guests for a relaxing getaway to the countryside. The interior consists of one bedroom with a queen-size bed framed by screened walls on two sides, creating a sense of close connection to the surrounding environment. Linens are provided. All electricity is generated from solar panels including two USB ports.A boardwalk leads from the cabin to an outhouse with a composting toilet. An outdoor shower is gravity fed and solar heated. Other amenities include a barbecue grill, pans, and dishes. However, guests must bring their own ice for the ice chest. Outside, guests will find a porch with bar seating from which guests can enjoy views of the surrounding woods, valleys, and a creek, which are frequented by wildlife. With such great outdoor access, guests are sure to agree this is one of the best Burgess Falls cabins.The farm on which this accommodation is located provides guests with mowed walkways and wooded trails on which they can explore its scenic grounds. While exploring them, guests may be guided by the friendly English shepherd dogs that live on the farm.

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Frequently Asked Questions And Answers

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  • What are people saying about campgrounds near 4000 Burgess Falls Dr, Sparta, TN 38583?

    This is a review for campgrounds near 4000 Burgess Falls Dr, Sparta, TN 38583:

    “Love the grilled chicken sandwich! My husband loves the spaghetti plate and the Alfredo is awesome!! From the panini’s to the plate dinners everything we’ve tried is wonderful! If you’re down in the lake or passing through, stop and give them a try! They also have the cheapest gas in town!”

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    Our Hiking Trip Story

    It was the weekend of my birthday and my husband told me to pick a hike to go to. After about two weeks of thinking and looking through all of the saved places on my Google Maps I decided that Burgess Falls will be the one. It was an easy hike but from all the photos Ive seen, it was worth it.

    I told my mom where we were planning to go and she immediately packed up and came to my house the day before. She wanted to go to this hike so badly that she didnt want to miss out on the opportunity.

    Saturday came along and off we went. We drove about 2 hours from Clarksville, Tennessee to Burgess Falls State Park. The minute we parked I can already hear the river flowing and the nearby cascade.

    As we started on our trail we stopped at every gorgeous scenic spot and overlook that came across. We took in every minute we could from the cascades to the other three waterfalls. It was so worth the trip and short two hour hike. Definitely the highlight to my birthday weekend.

    Base Of The Falls Trail

    Burgess Falls State Park in Sparta, TN

    After reaching the final overlook at the end of the River Trail you have the option to do the Base of the Falls Trail. This trail is a little more difficult but not by a lot. Definitely hold your little ones hands as you go down. This trail leads to the base of the trail but due to some damage to the stairs leading to the base, you can no longer go all the way to the gorge.

    Length: 0.3 miles round trip

    Difficulty Level: moderate

    Terrain: rugged dirt trail with stairs in several areas of the trail.

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    About Burgess Falls State Park

    Burgess Falls State Park is known for its natural beauty and four exquisite waterfalls. This Tennessee state park is located on the Falling Water River and now a natural gem located in Sparta, TN. Originally this area was populated by Native Americans from the Cherokee, Creek, and Chickasaw tribes which they used as a hunting ground. In the late 19th century, Falling Water River was used to generate hydroelectric power for the city of Cookeville as well as used as an operating site for gristmills and sawmills. The territory didnt become a Tennessee State Natural Area until 1973. Tennessee now protects the diverse forests and aquatic habitats located within what is now known as Burgess Falls State Park.

    Burgess Falls State Park also operates Window Cliffs State Natural Area but please keep in mind that though they are managed together, the trails on each area do not connect. The entrance to Window Cliffs is located approximately eight miles away from the entrance of Burgess Falls. You can learn more about this on their website here.

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    Things To Do At Burgess Falls

    Apart from hiking, the Burgess Falls area provides numerous family-friendly activities to enjoy year-round. If you adore fishing, you can do it below the dam and the main waterfall at the fishing pier or along the bank. Grills and tables for a picnic with a river view can be reserved in a large covered pavilion. Additional picnic areas with grills are conveniently located close to restrooms. A playground is nearby as well. Please keep in mind that swimming is not permitted at Burgess Falls.

    The Best Way To Get To Get There

    Hiking at Burgess Falls State Park

    The state park is located about 80 miles east of Nashville and about 18 miles south of Cookeville. Whether youre traveling East or West, take the I-40 exit 280 to Ditty Road/TN-135 and continue south for approximately 8.5 miles.

    Then, after crossing over the lake, the park entrance will be on your right.

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    What Is Burgess Falls

    Burgess Falls is located within Burgess Falls State Park and is operated by Tennessee State Parks. Its located 12 miles southwest of Cookeville and, in fact, gets its name from Revolutionary War veteran, Tom Burgess.

    After settling in the area in the 1810s, the Burgess family used the Falling Water River to operate a mill. Later, the city of Cookeville used the river to create hydroelectric power for the city between the years 1928-1944.

    Finally, Tennessee declared it a State Natural Area in 1973. As a result, the landscape and animals are now protected for future generations to enjoy.

    Camping At Burgess Falls State Park

    Unfortunately, there are no state park RV campgrounds located within Burgess Falls State Park, but campers with a rental RV can head south to Big Pucketts Campground and RV Park to stay one night or many. This large RV campground has many different sites to choose from and depending on what you are looking for, there is everything from primitive RV sites to full hookup sites that allow 100 foot RVs. Many types of sites between these extremes are also available, depending on guest count and season.

    This RV campground welcomes all bikers and is founded on the idea of providing a place for bikers to stop and rest. All campers can also enjoy a handful of services located right within the RV park. There is a dog walk and dog park, a patio that often has live music, an ice cream parlor, a sandwich shop, a general store, and a relaxation room for quiet activities. Be sure to book your campsite ahead of time once you know your dates, as sites at this popular RV campground may fill up fast.

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    Where To Stay Burgess Falls

    Camping is not allowed in Burgess Falls State Park. However, you can find numerous cabins and nice camping facilities at Standing Stone State Park, Rock Island State, in around an hour’s drive from Burgess Falls.

    If you are looking for a short and easy hike with beautiful scenery, Burgess Falls is the place where you can find it. This trail won’t be suitable for you if you are in search of solitude, as the hike is usually overcrowded.

    Best Trails In Burgess Falls State Park

    Pin on Fascinating Tennessee Landmarks and Parks

    Burgess Falls State Park is located on the Falling Water River. The day-use park has four cascading waterfalls that fall approximately 250 feet! The area is rich with Native American history. The natural beauty of the park will take your breath away with its bluffs, narrow ridges, and mixed forest. The park is home to many species of flora and an abundance of wildlife. There is also a butterfly garden for visitors to enjoy. There are hiking trails in a variety of difficulties. Note that a round trip hike will require 18 creek crossings by cables and rock crossings. Weather may rise the creek and make crossings difficult. Come enjoy the waterfalls at Burgess Falls State Park!

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    Burgess Falls State Park Tennessee

    If you are looking for something to do near Nashville, Tennessee then Burgess Falls is the perfect place for you to go. This gorgeous hiking trail is located between Chattanooga and Nashville and provides four waterfalls views along the River Trail. This waterfall trail leads to the iconic Burgess waterfall. The Burgess Falls hike is fairly easy to do and perfect for a family day hike.

    Disclaimer: This is a hiking guide and safety is very important. There are also affiliate links in this post. To learn more about hiking safety and how affiliate links work please read our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for using our links and for your support.

  • SUMMARY OF BURGESS FALLS STATE PARK
  • Why I Love State Parks

    Weve always been the on-the-go types, and it just so happens our jobs take us all over the country , so when were home, both of us have trouble sitting still our natural inclination is to be out doing something, doing anything. And while my home state Tennessee boasts the most visited national park in the country, the Great Smoky Mountains, and its one that we visit a couple times of year, we are surrounded by so many nearby state parks that are easy to squeeze in on a whim.

    Our Tennessee state parks are also a) free, b) dont require a lot of advance planning and c) allow dogs . Triple threat! Whereas a beach trip, for example, might require months of preparationand usually means we have to leave Ella at homehitting the park is easy to do with just a water bottle, day bag, some trail snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, a camera, a fur friend if you have one, and a swimsuit and beach towel if youre headed to the falls.

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