David Crockett State Park was dedicated in May of 1959, in honor of one of Tennessee's most famous native sons.

History

David Crockett was a pioneer, soldier, politician, industrialist and was born near the little town of Limestone in northeast Tennessee in 1786. In 1817, he moved to Lawrence County and served as a justice of the peace, a colonel of the militia, and as state representative. Along the banks of Shoal Creek, in what is now his namesake park, he established a diversified industry consisting of a powdermill, a gristmill and a distillery. All three operations were washed away in a flood in September, 1821. Financial difficulties from this loss caused Crockett to move to West Tennessee where he was elected to Congress. While in Washington, he fought for his people's right to keep land they had settled on the new frontier of West Tennessee. Crockett died at the Alamo Mission in March of 1836 while aiding the Texans in their fight for independence from Mexico.

Biking

A paved bicycle trail carries you through the woods where you may see deer, squirrels, rabbits and turkey in addition to a lot of feathered friends. You can stop at the environmental classroom overlook shelter and view the area where Crocketts' industrial operations were located on Shoal Creek below Crockett Falls. You finish your ride at the swimming pool parking lot. You can return by the same route or ride on the main park road leading from the front of the park restaurant.

Boating

The park does operate a boat rental area. Paddle boats are available for rent from Memorial Day through late August. Fishing boats can be rented year-round. Fishermen must have wearable life jacket, paddles or electric trolling motor.

No personally owned boats or motors are permitted on the lake.

Tennessee Boating Regulations (exit TDEC)

Camping

The park's two campgrounds contain a total of 107 sites, each equipped with a table and grill plus electrical and water hookups. Bathhouses provide hot showers, commodes and lavatories. A dump station available for self-contained rigs. Campsites are provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Stay limit is two weeks.

There is a scout camp area with primitive camping that can accommodate up to 30 campers.

Fishing

Forty-acre Lindsey Lake provides year-round fishing enjoyment and visitors can expect catches of bass, crappie, bluegill and catfish. Fishermen over the age of 13 must possess a valid Tennessee fishing license. Fishing is allowed anywhere on the banks of the lake as well as boat fishing.

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

Picnic Facilities

The park has seven picnic shelters that can accommodate 25-100 people. Reservations are taken up to one year in advance. There are also several individual picnic areas. Each picnic area is equipped with a grill.

Contact the park for more information.

Restaurant

David Crockett State Park Restaurant overlooks 40-acre scenic Lake Lindsey. The restaurant features home-style cooking served up buffet style.

David Crockett Restaurant is closed every Monday beginning October 6, 2008, until further notice.

Breakfast is served Saturday & Sunday from 7:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Lunch is served Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Dinner is served Friday & Saturday from 4:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Reservations may be taken for wedding receptions, family reunions, class reunions, business meeting/luncheons, etc.

Swimming

An olympic-sized swimming pool with a modern bathhouse and concession stand offers the very finest in aquatic enjoyment. There is ample sunbathing space and a wading pool for children. Lifeguards are on duty during swimming hours, and the pool is open from Memorial Day until late summer.

Museum

The exhibits at the park museum depict the life and times of Crockett as a pioneer, soldier, politician and industrialist. The museum is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Programs

A park naturalist and recreation director are on duty throughout the summer months. Both provide a variety of planned activities and programs including guided tours, organized games, arts and crafts, historical demonstrations and presentations, campfires, movies, slide shows, hayrides and more. Contact the park for programs available.

Special Events

David Crockett Days is an annual event.

Enjoy a quick movie (created in Flash) from the David Crockett Days event. The movie may take a few moments to download so enjoy the Memory game while waiting!

Other Activities

A full range of recreational facilities and activities can be found at the park. Activities include hiking, tennis, softball, volleyball, basketball, archery and much more. Some recreational equipment is available for check-out at the park office. Contact the park for more information.

Tour Buses

Tour buses are welcome.