Standing Stone State Park
Adventure Destination

Standing Stone State Park

Explore Standing Stone State Park in Hilham, TN, known for easy hiking trails and serene kayaking on the lake. Best visited in spring and fall. A peaceful, family-friendly spot with historical significance. Quiet year-round, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

Hiking7.2/10Moderate
Photo Gallery

Category

Hiking

Typical Duration

2-4 hours

Difficulty

Moderate

About This Adventure Destination

Standing Stone State Park in Hilham, Tennessee, offers a refreshing outdoor experience that stands out in the Upper Cumberland region. Renowned for its pristine 746-acre lake and well-maintained woodlands, the park provides visitors with both serene settings and engaging activities. The striking feature here is the shimmering Standing Stone Lake, surrounded by lush forests that light up in brilliant fall colors, creating picture-perfect views throughout the seasons.

The park's name comes from a historic stone monument once used by native tribes as a boundary marker, adding a touch of cultural heritage to the natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy over eight miles of trails winding through hardwood forests, where species like oak, hickory, and dogwood thrive alongside wildlife such as deer, songbirds, and occasionally, turtles along the water’s edge. A charming swaying pedestrian bridge crosses part of the lake’s inlet, offering unique photo opportunities.

The peaceful landscape is complemented by spacious picnic areas, campgrounds, and cozy cabins that provide comfort for families and groups. The lake is popular for fishing, kayaking, and paddle boating, making it ideal for water enthusiasts. Friendly park rangers often organize educational programs about local wildlife, enhancing the experience for nature lovers and children alike.

Visitors describe the park as a perfect weekend getaway with excellent amenities and welcoming staff. Whether spending time hiking the Ridge Trail, enjoying the cool waters of the lake, or simply watching a stunning starry night, Standing Stone State Park presents a genuine slice of Tennessee’s natural charm.


Editorial Assessment

Standing Stone State Park offers a peaceful retreat with its lovely natural landscapes. While not as globally iconic as other locations, it provides an intimate connection with Tennessee’s natural beauty, perfect for visitors seeking quiet adventures.#Hiking #Tennessee #StatePark #Kayaking #NatureAdventures

Standing Stone State Park

Adventure Guide to Standing Stone State Park

1

Popular Trails for Hikers

  • Location:

    Ridge Trail, Buggytop Trail

  • Why Visit:

    These routes offer scenic overlooks, diverse plant life, and chances to spot wildlife. Ridge Trail features panoramic views of the lake and hills, especially beautiful during fall’s colorful display.

  • Amenities:

    Well-marked paths, benches, and trailheads with parking.

  • Tips:

    Visit in spring or autumn for comfortable temperatures. Carry plenty of water, wear sturdy footwear, and bring a trail map, as some routes can be longer than expected.

2

Lakeside Water Activities

  • Location:

    Standing Stone Lake

  • Why Visit:

    Calm waters are perfect for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboat rentals, suitable for all skill levels.

  • Amenities:

    Rental equipment available seasonally; fishing piers and boat ramps on site.

  • Tips:

    Sunscreen and hats are essential on sunny days, and early mornings are ideal for quiet paddling or fishing.

3

Family-Friendly Picnics & Camping

  • Location:

    Picnic Areas and Campgrounds

  • Why Visit:

    Spacious, shaded picnic spots with tables and grills provide a comfy place to relax or share meals. Campgrounds include electric and primitive sites, along with clean restroom facilities and cozy cabins.

  • Amenities:

    Picnic shelters, grills, restrooms, pet-friendly cabins.

  • Tips:

    Arrive early on weekends for the best picnic spots. For overnight stays, book cabins or campsites in advance, especially during peak seasons like fall foliage time.

4

Visitor Insights & Practical Info

  • History:

    Established in 1939, the park has maintained its balance of nature preservation and outdoor enjoyment.

  • Best times to visit:

    Spring for wildflowers and fall for foliage; mild weather enhances hiking and outdoor comfort.

  • Directions:

    About 2 hours east of Nashville via US-70 E and TN-85 E toward Hilham. Look for clear park signage once near town.

  • What to bring:

    Hiking shoes, insect repellent, water bottles, picnic supplies, camera for scenic shots, and any fishing or paddling gear if you have your own. Standing Stone State Park offers a memorable mix of water activities, trails, and family-friendly outdoor spaces, making it a standout destination in Tennessee’s countryside.

Reviews

G
Garya week ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

C
Christapher Branstetter2 weeks ago

Great!!!

J
Julie Lammers3 weeks ago

The trails need better maps.. We started on a trail and thought it would loop around and it just kept going without any directions..

R
Ray Kenyona month ago

It was very peaceful and relaxing, will be going back as many times as I can...

R
Rebecca Wyatt4 weeks ago

It was a really cool place to stop by and see. A very big beautiful park. You have to cross the swaying bridge to get the other side of the water for a nice photo op. The one way bridge was a little scary! But I survived.

Nearby Adventures

Bookable Experiences

Jon-Boat Days: Fishing Cordell Hull from a 14' G3 at Wildwood15.9 mi
Granville, Tennessee

Jon-Boat Days: Fishing Cordell Hull from a 14' G3 at Wildwood

A concise field guide to renting the 14' G3 Jon boat from Wildwood Resort and Marina for half- or full-day fishing on Cordell Hull Lake.

15.9 miView Trips & Details →
Soay Serenity: 45 Minutes of Sheep Snuggling at Muddy Acres Farm, Cookeville16.7 mi
Cookeville, Tennessee

Soay Serenity: 45 Minutes of Sheep Snuggling at Muddy Acres Farm, Cookeville

A 45-minute farm tour at Muddy Acres Farm in Cookeville offering close, therapeutic encounters with friendly Soay sheep — this guide explains what the visit includes and how to plan for it.

16.7 miView Trips & Details →
VIP 8‑Hour Middle Tennessee Backcountry Can‑Am: Side‑by‑Side Water Crossings, Cave Stop and a Local Restaurant21.6 mi
Williamsport, Tennessee

VIP 8‑Hour Middle Tennessee Backcountry Can‑Am: Side‑by‑Side Water Crossings, Cave Stop and a Local Restaurant

An eight-hour guided Side‑By‑Side tour out of Williamsport that threads water crossings, a historic cave and a stop at a favorite local restaurant—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.

21.6 miView Trips & Details →
Seven Courses, Premium Wines: A Sommelier‑Led NYE at Wildwood26.1 mi
Granville, Tennessee

Seven Courses, Premium Wines: A Sommelier‑Led NYE at Wildwood

A Wildwood Resort and Marina experience in Granville that pairs a seven-course New Year’s Eve dinner with premium wines guided by the resort’s sommelier — this guide distills what to expect and how the evening unfolds.

26.1 miView Trips & Details →
Chasing Five Falls: A Wildwood Overlook Through Granville’s Cascades26.1 mi
Granville, Tennessee

Chasing Five Falls: A Wildwood Overlook Through Granville’s Cascades

A guided excursion through five distinct Tennessee waterfalls—Cummins, Burgess, Twin, Fall Creek and Lost Creek—paired with light to moderate hiking, photo stops and local interpretation.

26.1 miView Trips & Details →
Fog, Fire and a Quiet Wake: A 75‑Minute Sunset Cruise on Cordell Hull Lake28.0 mi
Granville, Tennessee

Fog, Fire and a Quiet Wake: A 75‑Minute Sunset Cruise on Cordell Hull Lake

A guided look at Wildwood Resort and Marina’s evening cruise—what to expect on the 75‑minute sail, how the boats are configured, and practical tips for making the most of the sunset.

28.0 miView Trips & Details →