🌤 Weather at Sherwood Forest State Natural Area by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40–74 °F | 63–84 °F | 40–78 °F | 29–49 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Sewanee, 7 mi away, elevation 1,928 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Old-Growth Plateau Forest — Mature hardwood forest named for its unbroken canopy
Sherwood Forest State Natural Area preserves a mature hardwood forest on the Cumberland Plateau named for its dense, unbroken canopy reminiscent of the legendary English woodland. The forest supports large specimens of oaks, hickories, and tulip poplars in a near-old-growth condition, with a rich understory and diverse wildlife community.
Sherwood Forest State Natural Area lies within Head of the Crow State Park, which Tennessee dedicated in October 2025 from the Lost Cove section of the former South Cumberland State Park. The park’s Sherwood Day Loop is a 2.85-mile easy loop, mostly level with a few steps, along a wooded ridge with rock formations, several overlooks into the Crow Creek Valley and a natural bridge. Source: Tennessee State Parks map, trail and campsite data (Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation), as of October 2026.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Cumberland Plateau, TN |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Forest | Old-growth-quality hardwood canopy |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there trails?
Trail access may be limited. The dense forest canopy creates a cathedral-like atmosphere best appreciated on foot. Check with TN Natural Areas for current trail conditions.
What is Sewanee?
The University of the South (Sewanee) sits atop the Cumberland Plateau on a 13,000-acre Domain — one of the largest university campuses in the world. The Domain includes extensive natural areas, trails, and the famous Perimeter Trail. Sewanee’s commitment to conservation makes the surrounding area a model for how universities can protect natural landscapes.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Fiery Gizzard State Park (a short drive away) and Fiery Gizzard Trail (a short drive away).
🌲 Visit Sherwood Forest SNA
Dense old-growth-quality canopy — Tennessee’s own Sherwood Forest.
About Sherwood Forest
Sherwood Forest State Natural Area in Franklin County protects old-growth forest on the Cumberland Plateau. The forest features massive oaks, tulip poplars, and an intact forest canopy — increasingly rare as logging and development fragment Tennessee’s woodlands. The “Sherwood Forest” name captures the ancient, enchanted quality of the old trees.
Things to Do
Hiking through the old-growth forest, observing ancient trees, birdwatching for forest interior species, wildflower viewing, and experiencing the cathedral-like atmosphere of uncut Tennessee forest.
Insider Tips
Cumberland Plateau forest: Sherwood Forest protects old-growth forest on the southern Cumberland Plateau near Sewanee. Pro tip: The University of the South (Sewanee) manages the surrounding Domain — 13,000 acres of forest, trails, and natural areas. Perimeter Trail: Sewanee’s 20-mile Perimeter Trail follows the plateau rim — offering views of Sherwood Forest and the surrounding valleys from dramatic overlooks.
Best Time to Visit
Fall: Plateau rim overlooks with foliage views. Spring: Wildflower bloom in old-growth. Summer: Cool forest shade at plateau elevation. Winter: Clear views from the rim.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Sherwood Forest State Natural Area
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Dogs, cats and other pets are permitted in Tennessee State Parks, including all campgrounds, if leashed, crated or otherwise under physical restrictive control at all times.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- 6 ft physical leash required; pets must not be left unattended
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited on designated swimming beaches and at pools at all times
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets prohibited in park lodges and cabins except designated pet-friendly units; each park offers a limited number of pet-friendly lodge rooms and one pet-friendly cabin ($20 per pet per night)
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No day-use or campground pet fee; $20 per pet per night in designated lodge rooms/cabins
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Park management may post additional no-pet areas on trails; proof of rabies vaccination may be required
Are dogs allowed at Sherwood Forest State Natural Area?
Dogs, cats and other pets are permitted in Tennessee State Parks, including all campgrounds, if leashed, crated or otherwise under physical restrictive control at all times. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via tnstateparks.com. More: Tennessee state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
