OLD STONE Fort has been a large part of Park Ranger Keith Wimberley’s life for over three decades. In the early ‘90s, he spent his summers working as a seasonal employee, the spark of discovery instilling a passion that would lead him back in 2000 as a park ranger. Eventually, in 2010, he took on the mantle of park manager, becoming the official steward of this historical treasure.
“I have a long history concerning Old Stone Fort,” he expressed.
Inside this slice of paradise, you’ll find a 42-acre hilltop enclosure cradled by the meandering Duck and Little Duck rivers. This is Old Stone Fort, with a history that spans 2,000 years.
In the Woodland Period, Native Americans built the structure, which served as a central ceremonial gathering place for centuries before fading into the mists of time. By the time European settlers arrived, its purpose remained unknown, leading to the name “Old Stone Fort.” Today, the park represents a bygone era — a place where history remains, thanks to the preservation efforts of park rangers and staff.
Old Stone Fort’s beauty lies in its unique blend of historical significance and outdoor adventure. Visitors embarking on the main trail find themselves walking along the ancient mounds, remnants of the past enlightening on their journey. The trail itself is a masterpiece, strategically positioned to offer breathtaking views of both the mounds and the rivers, immersing visitors in the full experience.
“The natural setting surrounding the Old Stone Fort is significant. The two are very much intertwined and, assuredly, reasoning for the Woodland Period Native Americans building the enclosure here. Our main trail, which surrounds the mounds, is juxtaposed between the mounds and rivers so visitors can see both aspects of the park on this hike,” Wimberley shared.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Old Stone Fort is the summer solstice alignment. Like a giant sundial, the entrance mound complex points almost perfectly toward the sunrise on the first day of summer. Each year, on this special day, the park opens its gates early, inviting visitors to witness this awe-inspiring phenomenon.
The museum is a must-visit to help visitors dive deeper into Old Stone Fort’s story. Here, exhibits showcase the intricate details of the mound site and fascinating insights into archaeology, flintknapping, plant use, and the daily lives of the people who once called this place “home.”
The park also offers a plethora of programs and events throughout the year designed to engage and educate visitors of all ages. Families, in particular, will find something special during the summer programs the park offers consistently between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The park held Spring Nature Day on the last Saturday of March — another popular must-visit event.
Preserving a site like Old Stone Fort comes with its own set of challenges. Finding the balance between education, accessibility, and preservation is an ongoing quest for park staff nationwide. The park urges visitors to be mindful of the delicate nature of the mounds and to stay on designated trails, refraining from climbing or digging. Through education and responsible exploration, this irreplaceable treasure can remain intact for generations to come.
Aside from its captivating beauty and recreational appeal, Old Stone Fort holds a unique historical significance that visitors might often overlook. In unveiling layers of history, you’ll discover fascinating facts that add to its charm.
“Old Stone Fort is the first and one of only two designated State Archaeological Parks in Tennessee. It has been recognized by experts as ‘the most spectacularly sited of Woodland sacred places’ and has been a beloved area for thousands of years and many generations,” enthused Wimberley.
“Thus, it is extremely important for visitors to be mindful of its significance and do their part to help us preserve it.”
There’s a certain magic in every corner of this park, waiting for you to discover it. There are nearly 10 miles of trails to explore, including a recently opened mountain bike trail. The park also has a well-maintained campground and a gift shop where visitors can find souvenirs to commemorate their visit.
Come explore the wonders of Old Stone Fort. Take a walk through time and become a part of the park’s legacy. Remember, we are all stewards of this irreplaceable treasure, and together, we can ensure its story continues to be told for generations to come.
“We strive to educate all visitors in this regard. We are making efforts to improve accessibility, including developing an audio tour of the site and exploring additional measures.” GN
