Pickett State Park
🏆 Official Guide: Pickett CCC Memorial State Park — A certified International Dark Sky Park on the Cumberland Plateau near Jamestown, Tennessee — featuring dramatic natural sandstone bridges, massive rock shelters, rare glow worms, and some of the darkest skies in the Southeast.
Pickett CCC Memorial State Park sits atop the rugged Cumberland Plateau in Fentress County, bordering the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. Originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, the park is now internationally recognized for two things: its extraordinary sandstone geological formations — including natural bridges and massive rock shelters — and its status as the first certified International Dark Sky Park in the Southeast.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Jamestown, Fentress County, TN |
| Size | ~19,200 acres (park + state forest) |
| Season | Year-round |
| Cabins | Available — rustic CCC-era + modern |
| Campground | Tent & RV sites with water/electric |
| Dark Sky Status | IDA-certified International Dark Sky Park |
Dark Sky Stargazing
Pickett State Park’s remote location on the Cumberland Plateau creates some of the darkest skies in the eastern United States. The park maintains a dedicated Astronomy Field near the Pogue Creek Canyon State Natural Area parking lot on Highway 154 — with electricity for telescopes and open year-round. On clear nights, the Milky Way is strikingly visible to the naked eye.
Geological Wonders
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Natural Sandstone Bridges | Multiple arches spanning creek beds — accessible via trail |
| Rock Shelters | Massive overhangs used by prehistoric peoples |
| Sandstone Bluffs | Dramatic cliff formations along gorges |
| Glow Worms | Rare bioluminescent larvae — visible in caves/shelters mid-May–July |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Hiking | 58+ miles of trails — connects to Big South Fork |
| Stargazing | IDA-certified Dark Sky Park — astronomy field |
| Camping | Campground + CCC-era cabins |
| Glow Worm Viewing | Guided night hikes mid-May through July |
| Fishing | Arch Lake — bass, bluegill |
| Rock Climbing | Bouldering on sandstone formations |
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Pickett a Dark Sky Park?
Pickett CCC Memorial State Park was the first state park in the Southeast to receive International Dark Sky Association certification. Its remote Cumberland Plateau location, far from major cities, produces minimal light pollution. A dedicated astronomy field with power outlets is available year-round for telescopes and equipment.
What are glow worms and when can I see them?
The park’s glow worms are bioluminescent larvae found in damp rock shelters and cave-like environments. They emit an eerie blue-green glow visible in complete darkness. The best viewing season is mid-May through early July. Rangers lead guided night hikes — check the Tennessee State Parks events calendar for schedules.
Can I hike into Big South Fork from Pickett?
Yes. Pickett State Park’s trail system connects directly to the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, creating over 58 miles of combined trails. You can plan multi-day backpacking trips from the park into the gorges and river valleys of Big South Fork.
Are the CCC cabins still available?
Yes. The park maintains original Civilian Conservation Corps-era rustic cabins alongside modern cabin options. Both can be reserved through the Tennessee State Parks reservation system. The CCC cabins offer a charming, historic experience — though amenities are basic compared to modern cabins.
Park Location
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