Situated on the shores of scenic Chickamauga Lake not far from the city of Chattanooga is 353-acre Booker T. Washington State Park. The park is named in honor of the famous leader, Booker Taliaferro Washington. Washington was born into slavery at Hale's Ford, Virginia, but with great determination he secured an education and went on to become one of our great Americans. He is perhaps best known as a former president of the Tuskegee Institute, a black organization for higher education.

Special Group Camp and Lodge Message

Currently, the Booker T. Washington State Park group camp and group lodge facilities are closed for renovations. We will inform our guests and visitors when renovations are completed. If additional information is needed, please call our office at (423) 894-4955.

Boating

Located on the shores of beautiful Lake Chickamauga, this park offers outstanding opportunities for fishing and boating. Boat launching ramps are conveniently located and boaters enjoy countless hours of skiing, fishing, or pleasure riding.

Tennessee Boating Regulations (exit TDEC)

Fishing

Fishing is good, year-round and is probably the parks number #1 pastime; catches include largemouth bass, crappie, sauger, striped bass, walleye, catfish, and buffalo. There is no charge for fishing but all fishermen over 13 years of age must be in possession of a valid temporary or annual Tennessee fishing license.

Tennessee Fishing Regulations (exit TDEC)
Tennessee State Parks fishing policies

Picnic Facilities

The park has 3 large picnic pavilions, each accomodating up to 60 people. Pavilions may be reserved up to two years in advance.

The park has 30 or more individual picnic sites to choose from. Sites are located by the lake, ball courts, pool and there are several in wooded areas. Each is equipped with grills and water spigots nearby. Picnic areas are wheelchair accessible.

Swimming

The park has a large olympic size pool with diving board and a childrens' wading pool. The pool is open from early summer through Labor Day.

This beautiful area provides hours of swimming and sunbathing enjoyment for all ages. Groups are welcome. Lifeguards are certified and are on duty during swimming hours.

History

View the History of Booker T. Washington State Park

Programs

Park Rangers are available year round for interpretive programs. Please call the park office to schedule a time for your group. Most programs can be brought to your site.

Types of Programs:
Earth Day
Learn to Swim
TN River Rescue
Environmental Education Programs

Other Activities

Park recreation activities include hiking, field games, playgrounds, basketball, badminton, horseshoes, volleyball and board games. Recreation equipment is available free of charge at the park office.

Tour Buses

Tour buses are welcome and roads within in the park are accessible to tour buses.