Canada Goose
ParkTennessee, US
Pickwick Landing State Park
Pickwick Landing State Park, nestled in Counce, Tennessee, is a vibrant 1,407-acre retreat offering a diverse array of outdoor activities for all ages.
About
Pickwick Landing State Park, nestled in Counce, Tennessee, is a vibrant 1,407-acre retreat offering a diverse array of outdoor activities for all ages. Situated on the picturesque shores of Pickwick Lake, this park is a haven for water enthusiasts, anglers, and nature lovers alike. Its expansive lake, lush forests, and abundant wildlife create a serene backdrop for relaxation and adventure. Whether you're seeking a quiet escape or an action-packed getaway, Pickwick Landing promises a memorable experience.
The park boasts an impressive range of habitats, from the open waters of Pickwick Lake to dense hardwood forests and hills. Birding enthusiasts will delight in spotting species like the American Coot, Pied-billed Grebe, Canada Goose, Chipping Sparrow, Eastern Bluebird, Osprey, Northern Cardinal, Ring-billed Gull, and the majestic American White Pelican. Keep an eye out for Red-headed Woodpeckers flitting among the trees, and listen for the calls of the Tufted Titmouse and Brown-headed Nuthatch. Beyond birds, the park's diverse ecosystems support fascinating flora such as the unique crane-fly orchid, mayapple, American sweetgum, and post oak. You might also encounter reptiles and amphibians like the Common Watersnake, Ouachita Map Turtle, and Dusky Salamanders, or mammals such as White-tailed Deer, Red Fox, and American Beaver.
Pickwick Landing State Park offers a perfect blend of recreational opportunities, historical significance, and natural beauty. From fishing tournaments on the renowned Pickwick Lake (known for bass, catfish, and crappie) to hiking scenic trails with historical Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) ruins, there's always something to explore. The park's commitment to accessibility, offering all-terrain wheelchairs and accessible facilities, ensures that everyone can enjoy its wonders. With its charming lodge, cabins, camping options, golf course, and even an aviary, Pickwick Landing State Park is more than just a park; it's a destination where unforgettable memories are made amidst the splendor of nature. Enhance your adventure: download the Snappit app to identify the local species you encounter.
The history of Pickwick Landing State Park is deeply intertwined with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and President Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal programs of the 1930s. Before this era, the area was primarily agricultural. The community of Pickwick, named after Charles Dickens's novel "The Pickwick Papers," was an important riverboat stop dating back to the 1840s. During the Great Depression, Pickwick was chosen as the site for a new dam to control flooding, generate electricity, and improve navigation on the Tennessee River. TVA established "Pickwick Village" to house workers and their families during the construction of the Pickwick Dam. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) also played a vital role, with Company 3459 constructing many park facilities, including picnic shelters, a rock building, a roadway bridge, and a rock staircase, many of which are still in use today. After the dam's completion, TVA managed the land, which was then leased as a private resort from 1949 to 1968. In 1972, the area officially became Pickwick Landing State Park, opening its 1,416 acres to the public as a recreational haven.
What to do here
Boating, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding (rentals available), swimming at three public beaches (Bruton Branch, Circle Beach, Sandy Beach), and fishing for bass, catfish, crappie, and sauger.
Hiking: Explore trails like the Island Loop Trail (3 miles) and the Inn Walking Trail (1.2 miles, paved).
Birdwatching: Scan the lake and trails for numerous bird species. The Bruton Branch Recreation Area is a prime spot.
Golf: Play an 18-hole round at the state park's golf course or disc golf.
Picnic: Utilize one of the six reservable pavilions for groups.
Learn: Visit the Reptile Room, join ranger-led tours, or explore CCC structures and historical markers.
Seasonal info
Summer: Ideal for swimming, boating, and water skiing. The park is an excellent location for the July 4th fireworks display.
Winter: Best for birding, with hundreds of Ring-billed Gulls and American Coots, Common Loons, Pied-billed and Horned Grebes often seen on the reservoir.
Throughout the year: The park hosts educational programs, workshops, and guided hikes.
Accessibility
Pickwick Landing State Park is committed to accessibility.
An all-terrain wheelchair is available to reserve free of charge, allowing access to otherwise inaccessible outdoor areas.
Accessible cabins (Premium Lakeside Cabin 13 and Standard Cabin 11) are available upon request.
The Marina features an accessible boat dock, wheelchair-friendly parking, and restrooms.
The aviary is ADA compliant.
Accessible kayak launch and adult changing tables are also provided.
Some campsites are handicap accessible.
Don't miss
1
Pickwick Lake
The central attraction for boating, swimming, fishing, and paddling.
2
Aviary
A haven for bird enthusiasts, featuring various species and weekly raptor feedings.
3
Island Loop Trail
Offers scenic lake views and historical CCC ruins.
4
Pickwick Landing State Park Golf Course
An 18-hole course part of the Tennessee Golf Trail.
Wildlife you might spot
12Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.
Snap map for this place
Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.
Loading map…
Good to know before you go
Book accommodations in advance
Especially for cabins or lodge rooms, as they are very popular. Campsite reservations are also recommended.
Bring binoculars for birdwatching
With over 145 species identified, including American Coots, Pied-billed Grebes, and American White Pelicans, binoculars will enhance your experience.
Explore both land and water activities
Don't just stick to the lake; hike the trails (like Island Loop for CCC history) and visit the aviary for a complete experience.
Check the spillway and generator schedule: For those near the dam or fishing, being aware of these schedules is important for safety.
Pack for all weather and activities
Depending on the season, bring swimwear, hiking boots, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Consider a guided pontoon tour
These can offer a unique perspective of the lake and its surroundings.
Frequently asked questions
- A1: Pickwick Landing State Park offers a range of accommodations, including a modern 119-room lodge with lakefront views, cabins (both standard and premium lakeside), and two campgrounds. The main campground has 48 wooded campsites with water and electric hookups (though it has been temporarily closed due to weather damage), while the Bruton Branch Primitive Campground offers 33 sites, some along the lake.
- A2: Yes, Pickwick Lake is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities and is a popular destination for fishing tournaments. Anglers can expect to catch a variety of fish, including catfish, bass (especially smallmouth and largemouth), crappie, sauger, and striped bass.
- A3: Absolutely. Pickwick Landing State Park strives to be accessible to all visitors. They offer an all-terrain wheelchair for free use to explore trails, accessible cabins (Cabin 11 and Cabin 13), an ADA-compliant aviary, accessible boat docks and kayak launches, and accessible restrooms and parking at the marina. Some campsites are also handicap accessible.
Recent snaps at this place
Jan 7, 2026
Nov 9, 2025
Oct 10, 2025
Oct 9, 2025
Oct 9, 2025
More park guides
View all ›.JPG)
Park30 sightings21 species
Massachusetts, US
Stevens-Coolidge House and Gardens
You might spot Virginia Bluebells and Great Golden Digger Wasp.
View guide →
.jpg)
Park30 sightings20 species
Maryland, US
Herring Run Park
You might spot White-Tailed Deer and Japanese Knotweed.
View guide →
Park22 sightings20 species
Illinois, US
Sauganash Trail
You might spot White Mulberry, House Finch, and Scissor Grinder.
View guide →
Park166 sightings19 species
Maryland, US
Rock Creek Regional Park
You might spot Great Blue Heron, Eastern Bluebird, and White-Tailed Deer.
View guide →