4/18/23
Thanks to television shows and films, many people are familiar with pop culture’s version of Davy Crockett and his coonskin cap. (1) But he was a real person, a pioneer who served in the Tennessee legislature and the U.S. House of Representatives and died at the Alamo in 1836. (2)
David Crockett Birthplace State Park in Limestone honors Crockett, born in this area of northeastern Tennessee in 1786. (3) But don’t confuse the park with David Crockett State Park in Lawrence County in Middle Tennessee (4); Crockett moved there in 1817. (5)
The park showcases what life would’ve been like during Crockett’s time. Staff hold regular flintlock shooting competitions on the park’s black powder shooting range, and competitors must wear clothes in the style of this period. (6)
Upon entering the park, visitors are greeted by the Stonecypher Cabin. RV camping is to the right, and further in is a visitor center with an exhibit about Crockett’s life.
A memorial to Crockett is surrounded by a wall that contains stone from each state in the nation. (7)
Behind this monument is a replica homestead with a cabin and gardens. Two donkeys live in an enclosure next to the homestead.
Visitors can fish; the park is bordered on two sides by the Nolichucky River and Big Limestone Creek. (8)
I walked the John Crockett Trail, a loop of about one-and-a-half miles. (9) A group campsite is near the trailhead. This peaceful site is next to Big Limestone Creek and feels secluded from the rest of the park. (10) But because it’s next to a parking lot, campers can bring more supplies and amenities for their stay than they could if they had to backpack to a site.
The John Crockett Trail is on grass and goes through the woods before running parallel to a road. After the trail turns away from the road, it cuts through the park. (11)
I came out on the other side of the parking lot that’s near the trailhead.
The park is a great place to relax or learn something new so make sure you visit when you’re in the area. Maybe I’ll see you out there!