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The Tennessee Conservative [By Jason Vaughn] –
Tennessee is now home to another state park, with the addition of Savage Gulf State Park bringing the state total to 57.
The park is located in Grundy and Sequatchie Counties and includes the Savage Gulf State Natural Area, a National Natural Landmark.
“This is a special day for Tennessee State Parks,” stated Governor Bill Lee. “It’s one of the most spectacular sites in our state, and the new park will serve Tennesseans for many years to come. Tennessee State Parks are recognized as one of the best state parks systems in the country, and this park adds to that special standing.”
Savage Gulf is found on the Western edge of the Cumberland Plateau. The wilderness landscape includes waterfalls and cliffs, such as the impressive Great Stone Door. Visitors to the area can enjoy hiking, swimming, rock climbing, and camping.
A portion of the new park was formerly controlled as a part of South Cumberland State Park, however, that park had become too much to handle as a single park, so the land was shifted into the oversight of Savage Gulf.
“Savage Gulf State Park will be a unique Tennessee attraction,” said David Salyers, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation. “We want all Tennesseans to enjoy its natural beauty and recreation opportunities, and we are grateful to the governor and the Tennessee General Assembly for their leadership in making this happen.”
The General Assembly allocated $30,380,000 for improvements to be made in the future, including an RV campground, visitors’ center, and new infrastructure.
While most of the area will remain as a designated state natural area, a 744-acre developable area was added to Savage Gulf.
About the Author: Jason Vaughn, Media Coordinator for The Tennessee Conservative ~ Jason previously worked for a legacy publishing company based in Crossville, TN in a variety of roles through his career. Most recently, he served as Deputy Director for their flagship publication. Prior, he was a freelance journalist writing articles that appeared in the Herald Citizen, the Crossville Chronicle and The Oracle among others. He graduated from Tennessee Technological University with a Bachelor’s in English-Journalism, with minors in Broadcast Journalism and History. Contact Jason at news@TennesseeConservativeNews.com
