Pickwick Landing State Park wilderness guide
State Park · TN

Pickwick Landing State Park

Pickwick Landing State Park is a popular recreational destination on the Tennessee River known for its extensive water-based activities, scenic landscapes, and well-developed camping and golfing facilities.

State Park6814+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

681

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Pickwick Landing State Park

Pickwick Landing State Park is a popular recreational destination on the Tennessee River known for its extensive water-based activities, scenic landscapes, and well-developed camping and golfing facilities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located on the southern shore of Pickwick Lake, part of the Tennessee River system, Pickwick Landing State Park covers a diverse area that offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities. The park’s geography features rolling hills, hardwood forests, and abundant shoreline, making it ideal for fishing, boating, and hiking. The lake itself was created by the Pickwick Landing Dam, completed in 1938, which helped shape the region’s economic and recreational development. Ecologically, the park supports a warm-temperate forest ecosystem rich in species such as oak, hickory, and pine, and provides habitat for wildlife including deer, turkey, and numerous waterfowl. The park is historically significant for its proximity to the dam and for hosting the Pickwick Landing Resort with a championship golf course. Visitors can enjoy swimming, paddle sports, and extensive fishing including bass, crappie, and catfish. The park features multiple campgrounds and cabin accommodations, along with hiking and biking trails that wind through scenic forested areas. Pickwick Landing also offers notable landmarks such as the marina and golf course, making the park a draw for both water enthusiasts and outdoor sportspersons. Its convenient location near the Tennessee-Alabama-Mississippi border adds regional appeal. Overall, Pickwick Landing State Park attracts visitors seeking a mix of water recreation, camping, golfing, and nature experiences.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Pickwick Landing State Park

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Pickwick Lake Marina – Full-service marina with boat rentals and access to the Tennessee River✦ Pickwick Landing Golf Course – An 18-hole championship golf course overlooking the lake✦ Scenic Hiking Trails – Forest trails with views of the lake and river bluffs✦ Well-equipped Campgrounds – Facilities suitable for tents, RVs, and cabins with lakefront sites
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Pickwick Landing State Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Pickwick Landing State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Pickwick Landing State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Pickwick Landing State Park
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Pickwick Landing State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Pickwick Landing State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Pickwick Landing State Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Pickwick Landing State Park
Park Recreation

Golfing

Available in Pickwick Landing State Park
Park Recreation

Boating

Available in Pickwick Landing State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Pickwick Landing State 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 Pickwick Landing State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Day-use fees and camping fees apply; no state park pass required for day access.

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 Pickwick Landing State Park

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

Pickwick Landing Campground

Located near the marina with over 100 sites for tents and RVs, including electric and water hookups.

Pickwick Landing Cabins

Fully furnished cabins available for rent near the lake, ideal for families or groups seeking comfort.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Pickwick Landing State Park

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

Savannah, Tennessee
⌖ 7.23 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Savannah, Tennessee

Savannah, Tennessee is a quiet riverside town perfect for paddling, fishing, and hiking along the Tennessee River. Enjoy bird watching, camping, and peaceful outdoor experiences with historical landmarks nearby.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Counce, Tennessee
⌖ 8.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Counce, Tennessee

Counce is a quiet Tennessee River town offering paddling, fishing, and wildlife watching opportunities. Ideal for travelers seeking peaceful outdoor adventures surrounded by nature and river landscapes.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Milledgeville, Tennessee
⌖ 19.43 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Milledgeville, Tennessee

Milledgeville offers a quiet gateway to tranquil paddling, hiking, and bird watching in Middle Tennessee’s rural outdoors. Ideal for visitors seeking low-traffic natural areas and rustic camping near water.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Clifton, Tennessee
⌖ 19.78 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Clifton, Tennessee

Clifton, TN is a quiet river town offering paddling, fishing, and hiking along the Tennessee River. Its peaceful parks and protected natural areas make it perfect for outdoor lovers seeking calm water adventures and woodland trails.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Burnsville, Mississippi
⌖ 22.38 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Burnsville, Mississippi

Burnsville, Mississippi, is a quiet outdoor escape offering hiking, mountain biking, paddling, and camping amid scenic hills and forests. Ideal for spring and fall visits, it’s perfect for travelers seeking peaceful nature adventures off the main tourist trails.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Iuka, Mississippi
⌖ 22.61 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Iuka, Mississippi

Iuka, Mississippi, offers a quaint small-town vibe with adventurous outdoor activities. Discover hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities in scenic state parks and serene lakes.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Pickwick Landing State Park

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

Cabin #3 — A Modern Log Retreat at Hawk Pride
ADVEXPEDITION
Tuscumbia, Alabama
LodgingADV Bookable

Cabin #3 — A Modern Log Retreat at Hawk Pride

An authentic log cabin in Tuscumbia with A/C, a private bath and kitchenette, sleeps up to six, and requires a minimum two‑night stay.

LodgingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip