Dry Branch Dedicated as Tennessee's 68th State Park

Tennessee State Parks dedicated Dry Branch State Park on September 23, turning a 2,500-acre conservation success into the state's 68th park.

Tennessee State Parks formally dedicated Dry Branch State Park at a ceremony in Hohenwald on September 23, welcoming the former Dry Branch State Natural Area into the system as the state's 68th state park. The park sits at the intersection of Lewis, Hickman, and Perry counties, in rural Middle Tennessee. The dedication marks a major milestone in what officials describe as one of the state's most significant conservation success stories, and it comes with a guarantee: the land retains all protections associated with its State Natural Area designation even as it joins the park system.

The land has long been recognized for its ecological importance and rare plant life, including the endangered Tennessee yellow-eyed grass. Protection efforts began in 2003, and significant partnerships and land purchases by The Nature Conservancy and the State of Tennessee permanently secured more than 2,500 acres. The property is now permanently protected under the Natural Areas Preservation Act. According to The Newport Plain Talk, the combination of rarity, acreage, and durability of the safeguards is what makes the dedication such a celebrated moment for Tennessee conservationists.

"By welcoming Dry Branch as Tennessee's 68th state park, we're ensuring that this extraordinary landscape is not only protected but opened for future generations of Tennesseans," said David Salyers, commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation. He credited Gov. Bill Lee and the Tennessee General Assembly with providing the resources to turn the landscape into an outdoor space for all to explore. "Dry Branch is a great example of Tennessee's commitment to conservation, strong partnerships, and a deep belief in preserving the natural places that make our state special," said Deputy Commissioner Brian Clifford, who noted visitors will gain access and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Dry Branch State Park is not yet open to visitors. A master planning period is currently underway to shape access and recreation before the gates open, and The Buffalo River Review, which covers the region, reports the dedication was posted September 30. Officials expect the park to serve as an economic and tourism driver for the surrounding rural Tennessee community once it opens. The Newport Plain Talk directs visitors to the Dry Branch State Park website and the park's Facebook page for updates and more visitor information as plans develop.