Old Forest State Natural Area wilderness guide
State Natural Area · TN

Old Forest State Natural Area

Old Forest State Natural Area is a lush and historic woodland located in the heart of Memphis, offering a serene escape into nature with diverse flora and fauna.

State Natural Area1261+ Trails

Designation

State Natural Area

Total Wilderness Area

126

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Old Forest State Natural Area

Old Forest State Natural Area is a lush and historic woodland located in the heart of Memphis, offering a serene escape into nature with diverse flora and fauna.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Old Forest State Natural Area, located within Overton Park in Memphis, Tennessee, is a protected woodland characterized by its mature trees, some of which are over 200 years old. This 126-acre site is a remnant of the vast forests that once dominated the region. The area's biodiversity includes tulip poplars, red oaks, and hornbeam trees, alongside a rich underbrush that supports a variety of wildlife such as owls, squirrels, and migratory birds. Historically, the forest has been a subject of conservation efforts to preserve its ecological integrity. Visitors can enjoy walking the winding trails that provide an immersive experience in this urban sanctuary. Despite being surrounded by urban development, the Old Forest remains a crucial green space for recreation, educational programs, and research. It's a beloved spot for nature enthusiasts and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Field Guide · State Natural Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Old Forest State Natural Area

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Historic trees over 200 years old✦ Diverse bird watching opportunities✦ Scenic and serene trails quintessential for meditative walks✦ Educational signs detailing the forest's ecology and history
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Old Forest State Natural Area

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Old Forest State Natural Area
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Old Forest State Natural Area
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Old Forest State Natural Area
Park Recreation

Educational Programs

Available in Old Forest State Natural Area
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Old Forest State Natural Area.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access without any permits required

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 Old Forest State Natural Area

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

Nearby City Campground

Located within Memphis, providing convenient access to urban amenities and the natural area.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Old Forest State Natural Area

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

Memphis, Tennessee
⌖ 0.34 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis, known for its music and BBQ, is also a gateway to unique outdoor adventures. Explore trails and parks, paddle the Mississippi, or fish on local lakes. A vibrant outdoor scene awaits.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Augher, Tennessee
⌖ 8.85 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Augher, Tennessee

Augher, Tennessee is a peaceful rural town perfect for outdoor lovers looking to explore quiet hiking trails, calm kayaking routes, and birdwatching spots along the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway and Tennessee River.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Bartlett, Tennessee
⌖ 10.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bartlett, Tennessee

Bartlett, Tennessee offers a quiet suburban setting with well-maintained parks, walking and biking trails, and nearby paddling spots. Ideal for nature lovers and families seeking easy outdoor fun close to Memphis.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Germantown, Tennessee
⌖ 14.98 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Germantown, Tennessee

Germantown offers gentle hiking, biking, and paddling opportunities along the scenic Wolf River Greenway. Ideal for families and outdoor lovers, enjoy peaceful trails, picnic spots, and community parks from spring through fall.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Millington, Tennessee
⌖ 15.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Millington, Tennessee

Millington, TN, is a quaint town that offers easy access to nature adventures near Memphis. Enjoy hiking, paddling, and bird watching in nearby Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park for a relaxing retreat.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Olive Branch, Mississippi
⌖ 18.27 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Olive Branch, Mississippi

Olive Branch offers peaceful lakeside paddling, casual hiking, and birdwatching amid quiet parks just outside Memphis. It’s a perfect spot for families and outdoor beginners seeking nature without the crowds.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Old Forest State Natural Area

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

Memphis at Dusk: A Private One‑Hour Sunset Ride
ADVEXPEDITION
Memphis, Tennessee
PrivateADV Bookable

Memphis at Dusk: A Private One‑Hour Sunset Ride

A one‑hour, private guided ride operated by Shelby Farms Stables in Memphis—scheduled as the last outing of the day and priced at $125 per person, ideal for a romantic date or special occasion.

PrivatePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Three Museums, One City: The 4.5‑Hour Memphis Music Museum Circuit
ADVEXPEDITION
Memphis, Tennessee
Sightseeing TourADV Bookable

Three Museums, One City: The 4.5‑Hour Memphis Music Museum Circuit

A transport-only, approximately 4.5-hour tour departing at 10am that links Sun Studio, the Stax Museum and the Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum—this guide explains what you’ll see and the booking essentials.

Sightseeing TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip