Montgomery Bell State Park

Montgomery Bell State Park is a nature preserve in Dickson County featuring three lakes, dense oak-hickory forests, and rolling terrain crossed by over 19 miles of hiking trails. The landscape includes varied environments and forest types that unfold along these pathways.

The land was mined for iron ore during the 1800s and became a protected state park in 1943. This transformation preserved the industrial past while creating a new purpose for the area.

The Cumberland Presbyterian Church originated at this location and represents a significant moment in American religious history. Visitors walking through the grounds can see where this spiritual tradition began and grew.

The park features a 120-room inn overlooking Lake Acorn, eight vacation cottages, and boat rentals available at all three lakes for various activities. The hiking trails are well-marked, and fishing is permitted across all three lakes for those who wish to try it.

The park protects two natural forest tracts of oak and hickory trees that ecologists recognize as outstanding examples of this forest type in Tennessee's Western Highland Rim. These woodlands are uncommon and show how the landscape naturally appears in this region.

Location: Dickson County

Inception: 1943

Website: https://tnstateparks.com/parks/montgomery-bell

GPS coordinates: 36.09000,-87.27330

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:42