Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park
Manchester, Tennessee
| Address: | Stone Fort Drive, Manchester, TN 37355, USA |
| GPS: |
35°29'28.9"N 86°6'11.2"W Maps | Directions |
| State: | Tennessee |
Restrooms Picnic Tables Rivers Waterfalls Trails Rocks Fishing State Park Lakes Streams Glaciers Wildflowers Ponds
Camp and Hike
Built around 2,000 years ago Old Stone Fort provides hikers a unique experience visiting the ruins left by Native Americans during the Middle Woodland Period. Visitors can follow the Old Stone Fort Enclosure Trail along the remains of the earthen mounds.
Along with a handful of hiking trails the park sits in between The Bark Camp and Barren Forks of the Duck River. In these waterways sounds of rushing water can be heard amongst the trees where visitors stumble upon picturesque waterfalls. As one explores the trails interpretive panels tell the story of the site and its inhabitants.
Also, on the site is located ruins of two paper mills owned by W.S. Whitman operating during the 1800. Whitman constructed a saltpeter mill in 1862 supplying the confederate army with gunpowder during the civil war until its destruction a year later when Union troops passed through the area.
A free museum is also onsite exhibiting displays and replicas of Native American life during the time the fort was occupied. From archeological discoveries throughout the years visitors will also be exposed to theories behind the construction of the walls and those who built them.
The park was purchased in 1966 by the state of Tennessee and is now apart of the Tennessee State Parks.
More Information
Add ResourceBe courteous, informed, and prepared. Read trailhead guidelines, stay on the trail, and don't feed the wildlife.
Read More
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel & camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
Directions
From Manchester, Tennessee
- Head northwest on US-41 N toward S Irwin St (1.2 mi)
- Turn left onto Stone Fort DrDestination will be on the left(0.3 mi)
Once you arrive to the Park follow the road until you reach the parking lot of the museum and visitors center. From there you will have access to various trails.
