Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park wilderness guide
National Military Park · GA, TN

Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park

Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park commemorates two major battles of the American Civil War and offers educational opportunities alongside scenic trails and historic monuments.

National Military Park9,0364+ Trails

Designation

National Military Park

Total Wilderness Area

9,036

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park

Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park commemorates two major battles of the American Civil War and offers educational opportunities alongside scenic trails and historic monuments.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park, located in northern Georgia and southern Tennessee, is the first of its kind to preserve and commemorate the significant battles fought during the American Civil War. The park covers rugged terrain, ridged mountains, and expansive woodlands that played strategic roles during the Battle of Chickamauga and the subsequent Chattanooga Campaign. Established to honor the sacrifices and the strategic military maneuvers of the 1863 battles, the park now serves as a place of reflection for history enthusiasts. Visitors can explore its diverse landscapes via a network of trails that wind through historic sites and past numerous monuments and markers. The park offers a variety of recreational activities including hiking, picnicking, and guided tours that detail the military strategies executed in the region. The Lookout Mountain and Missionary Ridge are significant landmarks within the park, providing both historical context and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

Field Guide · National Military Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Lookout Mountain, offering panoramic views and key historical insights.✦ Rare opportunity to explore preserved Civil War battlefields and memorials.✦ Educational tours detailing significant military strategies of the Civil War.✦ Quiet nature trails away from the more frequently visited historic sites.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park
Park Recreation

Historical Tours

Available in Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access; fees may apply for certain guided tours.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Chickamauga Battlefield Campground

Located near the visitor center, providing easy access to trails and historical sites.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia
⌖ 1.05 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia

Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia offers outdoor adventurers a unique blend of historic battlefield landscapes, rugged mountain trails, and tranquil waterways. Hiking, biking, climbing, and paddling opportunities abound in this charming foothills town near Lookout Mountain.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Chickamauga, Georgia
⌖ 4.95 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Chickamauga, Georgia

Chickamauga, Georgia offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and rich history with hiking, paddling, mountain biking, and camping around scenic rivers and protected forests.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Chattanooga, Tennessee
⌖ 8.14 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga offers an adventurous mix of hiking, climbing, and paddling. With its vibrant river city vibe and countless trails, it's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a getaway with a side of thrill.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Ringgold, Georgia
⌖ 8.29 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ringgold, Georgia

Ringgold, Georgia, offers outdoor fans rugged hiking, mountain biking, and paddling adventures framed by rich Civil War history and scenic Appalachian foothills. A perfect spring or fall destination to camp, bird watch, and hit nature trails.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Red Bank, Tennessee
⌖ 12.78 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Red Bank, Tennessee

Red Bank, Tennessee offers a calm outdoor escape with hiking, kayaking, and biking access near the Tennessee River. Ideal for families and nature lovers, it’s a convenient gateway to scenic river trails and peaceful parks.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Signal Mountain, Tennessee
⌖ 13.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Signal Mountain, Tennessee

Signal Mountain offers outdoor enthusiasts hiking trails with panoramic views, rock climbing opportunities, and serene camping spots. Explore its scenic beauty and rich wildlife.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12pm Incline Railway Admission (Round Trip)
ADVEXPEDITION
Chattanooga, Tennessee
TrainADV Bookable

12pm Incline Railway Admission (Round Trip)

Climb one of the world’s steepest passenger railways in a ten-minute ascent to sweeping Lookout Mountain views. Fast, historic, and accessible—this short ride packs geology, history, and panorama into a single hour.

TrainAll Ages • America's Most Amazing MileCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
3pm Incline Railway Admission (Round Trip)
ADVEXPEDITION
Chattanooga, Tennessee
TrainADV Bookable

3pm Incline Railway Admission (Round Trip)

Take one of the steepest passenger railways in the world from St. Elmo up to Lookout Mountain for sweeping views, a quick history lesson, and accessible summit access. Plan about an hour to ride, explore the observation deck, and grab a snack.

TrainAll Ages • America's Most Amazing MileCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Fly Tandem!
ADVEXPEDITION
Rising Fawn, Georgia
Air ActivitiesADV Bookable

Fly Tandem!

Get ready for a soaring adventure above North Georgia’s rugged landscapes with a tandem hang gliding flight from Lookout Mountain Flight Park. Perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike, this experience offers a unique perspective of the region’s natural beauty. During your flight, certified instructors will guide you over valleys, ridges, and forests, providing a peaceful yet exhilarating ride. Whether you’re aiming for a gentle glide or a heart-pumping thrill, each flight offers an unforgettable view of the striking terrain around Rising Fawn. Known for its reliable wind conditions and welcoming atmosphere, the Flight Park is a standout destination for outdoor adventure enthusiasts. The proximity to Chattanooga and the access to North Georgia’s scenic wilderness make it a convenient yet extraordinary activity for visitors interested in experiencing flying firsthand.

Air ActivitiesSee The World From A New Perspective! | No Experience Necessary!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Valentine’s Dinner Train
ADVEXPEDITION
Chattanooga, Tennessee
TrainADV Bookable

Valentine’s Dinner Train

Discover a romantic, vintage dining experience aboard the Valentine’s Dinner Train in Chattanooga. This two-hour journey combines scenic views, gourmet dining, and nostalgic charm—perfect for celebrating love in style.

TrainCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Homefront Tea Room
ADVEXPEDITION
Chattanooga, Tennessee
TrainADV Bookable

Homefront Tea Room

Discover a unique blend of Victorian charm and vintage railroading in Chattanooga. Indulge in a delightful high-tea followed by a scenic train journey through Tennessee’s historic landscape—perfect for a relaxing, family-friendly outing.

TrainCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip