🏆 Floodplain Preserve — Rare floodplain habitat preserving native wetland communities
Walterhill Floodplain State Natural Area preserves a natural floodplain along Stones River in Rutherford County. The floodplain supports native wetland and bottomland hardwood communities that have been largely eliminated by agriculture and development across middle Tennessee.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Rutherford County, TN (Stones River) |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Habitat | Floodplain, wetland, bottomland hardwood |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are floodplains important?
Floodplains absorb floodwaters, filter pollutants, and support extraordinary biodiversity. Most natural floodplains in Tennessee have been converted to farmland, making preserved examples like this ecologically critical.
About Walterhill Floodplain
Walterhill Floodplain State Natural Area in Rutherford County protects river floodplain habitat along the East Fork Stones River near Murfreesboro. Floodplain forests are among the most productive ecosystems in the eastern U.S., and the periodic flooding creates dynamic habitats that support diverse wildlife.
Walterhill Floodplain State Natural Area in Rutherford County protects a section of Stones River floodplain near Murfreesboro — site of the horrific Battle of Stones River (1862-1863), one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War with 23,515 total casualties. The floodplain forest supports rich bottomland hardwoods and serves as a critical wildlife corridor. The area connects to the broader Stones River greenway system.
Things to Do
Walking through the bottomland forest, birdwatching for floodplain-dependent species, wildflower viewing, and observing the dynamic river-floodplain ecosystem.
Hiking through bottomland forest, birdwatching, fishing, connecting to the Stones River greenway, and exploring the river valley where one of the Civil War’s bloodiest battles was fought.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Barnett’s Woods State Natural Area (a short drive away) or Flat Rock Cedar Glades & Barrens State Natural Area (a short drive away).
🌾 Visit Walterhill Floodplain SNA
Rare natural floodplain — wetland habitat on the Stones River.
Park Location
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