Dry Branch Dedicated as Tennessee’s 68th State Park

Tennessee State Parks dedicated Dry Branch State Park Wednesday, officially adding the property to the state park system as Tennessee’s 68th state park.

Located at the intersection of Lewis, Hickman and Perry counties, Dry Branch was previously designated as a State Natural Area and will retain those protections as a state park.

According to the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, the area is known for its rare ecosystems and plant life, including the endangered Tennessee yellow-eyed grass. Conservation efforts at Dry Branch began in 2003 and eventually resulted in more than 2,500 acres being permanently protected through partnerships and land purchases involving The Nature Conservancy and the State of Tennessee.

The property is permanently protected under Tennessee’s Natural Areas Preservation Act.

Dry Branch State Park is not yet open to visitors. A master planning process is underway to determine future public access and outdoor recreational opportunities at the park.

State officials said the park is also expected to contribute to tourism and economic development in the surrounding rural area.

Dry Branch is among 14 new Tennessee State Parks planned to be established under Governor Bill Lee’s administration.