Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park

Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park is a 2,076 acre forested area with steep mountain terrain and clear running streams throughout the southern Appalachian region of East Tennessee. The landscape features dense forests, rocky outcrops, and elevation changes that create diverse trails for different activity levels.

The area was originally Native American territory before transitioning to public recreation land in the early 21st century. Tennessee formally established Rocky Fork as a state park in 2012, later naming it after Senator Lamar Alexander for his conservation efforts.

The park takes its name from Senator Lamar Alexander, whose advocacy for environmental protection shaped the establishment of this natural space in East Tennessee. Local communities view it as an important conservation effort that reflects regional values around land stewardship.

The main entrance near the Flag Pond community has a ranger station where staff provide trail maps and guidance for planning your visit. Bring sturdy hiking boots and plenty of water since the terrain is steep and exposed areas offer limited shade.

The park connects directly to Cherokee National Forest and sits close to the Appalachian Trail, creating an extended wilderness network. This positioning allows visitors to link multiple outdoor experiences without leaving the general area.

Location: Unicoi County

Inception: 2012

Website: https://tnstateparks.com/parks/rocky-fork

GPS coordinates: 36.05083,-82.57111

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:07