Old Forest Arboretum of Overton Park

The Old Forest Arboretum is a wooded area within Overton Park that preserves the original oak-hickory forest of the region. Walking paths wind through the grounds, allowing visitors to explore different sections and observe native plants throughout the year.

The forest was once part of the larger woodlands that surrounded Memphis before urban development transformed the landscape. The woodland was formally set aside to ensure that this native forest ecosystem would survive and remain accessible to the public.

The forest serves as a gathering place for people interested in observing wildlife and learning about native plants. Visitors come to experience how local ecosystems function and to connect with the land as it existed before urban development.

The trails are straightforward to walk and require no special equipment or preparation. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and expect muddy sections after rainfall or during wet seasons.

The forest played a key role in a major court case that stopped a highway from being built through the area. This legal victory made the woodland a symbol of how communities can protect green spaces from urban development.