Prentice Cooper State Forest is a public state park in Tennessee near Signal Mountain in Marion County County. Spanning 24,685 acres and established in 1945, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Tennessee |
| Nearest City | Signal Mountain |
| County | Marion County |
| Park Size | 24,685 acres |
| Established | 1945 |
Location & Getting There
Prentice Cooper State Forest is located near Signal Mountain, Tennessee. The park’s coordinates are 35.1683, -85.4193.
Things to Do
Tennessee state parks stretch across three distinct regions — the Great Smoky Mountains in the east, the Cumberland Plateau’s gorges and waterfalls in the middle, and the Mississippi River bluffs in the west. Activities include hiking past some of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi, swimming in lakes and park pools, fishing in world-class smallmouth bass streams, camping in forested mountain settings, kayaking scenic rivers, mountain biking at premier trail systems, golfing at park courses, horseback riding through valleys, and exploring Civil War battlefields and Native American mound sites. Fall Creek Falls (256 feet) is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the eastern United States.
Best Time to Visit
Tennessee parks offer true four-season appeal. Spring (April–May) brings wildflowers, peak waterfall flow, and comfortable temperatures. Summer (June–August) is warm and humid — lake swimming, park pools, and mountain elevation provide relief. Fall (October–November) is the crown jewel — Tennessee’s fall color rivals New England at a fraction of the crowds, peaking mid-to-late October across the state. Winter (December–February) is mild in West Tennessee and cold in the mountains, offering quiet trails and solitude. The Great Smoky Mountains region experiences peak visitation in summer and October — plan accordingly.
Visitor Tips
Tennessee state parks are free to enter — no admission fees or vehicle passes. Camping, cabins, and lodge rooms are available at many parks through tnstateparks.com. Tennessee’s park system is notable for its full-service lodges and restaurants inside parks — including Fall Creek Falls, Pickwick Landing, and Paris Landing. The state’s Unique Stays program offers treehouse rentals, yurts, and tiny homes at select parks. Firewood policy: only certified heat-treated wood or downed wood from within the park is allowed for campfires.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Tennessee state parks free?
Yes, Tennessee state parks do not charge an entrance fee. Camping, cabin rentals, golf, and some special programs have separate fees. The parks are funded through state revenues and are free to visit year-round.
What is the tallest waterfall in Tennessee?
Fall Creek Falls at Fall Creek Falls State Park is one of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern United States at 256 feet, plunging into a deep plunge pool surrounded by virgin hardwood forest.
What are the best state parks near Nashville?
Popular parks near Nashville include Radnor Lake (urban nature preserve), Percy Warner (forested trails), Cedars of Lebanon (cedar glades), and Long Hunter (lake recreation on Percy Priest).
Can I stay in a cabin at Tennessee state parks?
Yes, many Tennessee state parks offer fully-equipped cabins and lodge rooms. Fall Creek Falls, Pickett, and Natchez Trace are known for excellent cabin accommodations. Book months in advance for peak season.
Explore More Tennessee State Parks
Prentice Cooper State Forest is one of many outstanding state parks in Tennessee. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Tennessee guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Prentice Cooper SF — 26,000 acres on the Tennessee River Gorge near Chattanooga — provides rugged backcountry recreation. The park’s river gorge, bluffs, and forest support black bears, bobcats, and timber rattlesnakes. Bald eagles soar above the gorge. Peregrine falcons nest on the cliffs.
Nearby Attractions
Chattanooga — 15 miles east — has the Tennessee Aquarium and Lookout Mountain. Tennessee River Gorge — adjacent — “the Grand Canyon of Tennessee.” Signal Mountain — nearby.
More parks nearby: Falling Water Falls State Natural Area is a short drive away, while Cumberland Trail State Park lies a short drive away.
Park Location
Plan your gear for Prentice Cooper State Forest
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
