Long
Hunter State Park is situated along the shore of J. Percy Priest
Lake. It consists of four units: Couchville, Baker's Grove, Bryant
Grove and Sellars Farm. Picnicking, swimming, hiking, backpacking,
boating, fishing, nature photography and wildlife observation
are among the activities available to park visitors. Planned activities
include interpretive and recreation programs for the general public
and environmental education programs for school and other interested
groups.
Biking
The Jones Mill mountain bike trail is located in the Bryant Grove Recreation Area. It features two loops: one two-mile loop and one four-mile loop. These trails offer a variety of challenges to mountain bikers and a great view of the lake from Bald Knob. Hikers are also welcome on the bike trail.
Boating
Two launch ramps on J. Percy Priest Lake
Pleasure boating and water-skiing are popular on the 14,000-acre
J. Percy Priest Lake. Long Hunter offers two launch ramps on
J. Percy Priest Lake.
Rental boats are available at Couchville Lake during the summer-use
season. There is no launch ramp on Couchville Lake for private
boats.
Tennessee
Boating Regulations (exit TDEC)
Fishing
Fishing on the J. Percy Priest Lake is very popular at Long
Hunter. Catches include large- and small-mouth bass, rockfish,
stripe, crappie, bream and catfish. There is no charge for fishing;
however, all fishermen over 12 years of age must possess a valid
Tennessee fishing license.
Valid TN fishing license required
Tennessee
Fishing Regulations (exit TDEC)
Tennessee
State Parks fishing policies
Group Camping
An area with adjacent lakeshore has been set aside for use
by scout, church, or other organized youth groups. There is
a small charge for overnight use and advance reservations must
be made. Adult supervision is required.
Hiking
There are several hiking trails at Long Hunter designed to
provide pleasant walking experiences for all. Among the more
popular is the Lake Trail around Couchville Lake. The Lake Trail
is hard surfaced and barrier free and is a self-guided nature
trail. The Nature Loop Trail and Inland Trail located at Couchville,
are popular short walks. The mile-long Deer Trail begins at
the park office and meanders through old field and young forest
habitats. The longer Bryant Grove Trail connects Bryant Grove
to Couchville.
For the more adventurous, the Bakers Grove Primitive Use Area
offers longer day hikes on the Day Loop Trail, and day hiking
and overnight camping on the Volunteer Trail. These trails wind
along the shore of J. Percy Priest Lake, climb overlook bluffs,
and wander through hardwood forest, cedar glades, and interesting
rock outcroppings.
From
The Tennessee Conservationist's Great Hikes With Fran Wallas:
Three Ways to Hike The Perfect Winter Trail at Long Hunter State Park
Park Map Detailed Map
Meeting Facility
The park also offers a meeting facility that can accommodate
25 people arranged classroom style or 40 people arranged conference
room style. Contact the park office for more information.
Picnic Facilities
The park provides two large picnic shelters. The Bryant Grove
site is situated around a central parking area and provides
lakeshore swim beach, a rustic playground and a volleyball court.
The Couchville site, located a short walk from the two parking
areas, is located on Couchville Lake near the barrier free Lake
Trail. Picnic shelters may be reserved for family reunions,
church groups, or other group outings. Each shelter is convenient
to restroom facilities. The park begins taking reservations
for the shelters on January 1.
Sellars Farm
Click here to learn more about the Sellars Farm state archaeological site at the Tennessee History for Kids Web site.
Swimming
Non-supervised swimming is permitted at Bryant Grove. Swimming
in Couchville Lake and in the area of boat ramps is prohibited.
CAUTION: The lake bottom is hazardous and you must swim at your
own risk!
Programs
Schedule of Summer
Programs available at Long Hunter State Park.
Pet Policy
While Long Hunter is a pet-friendly state park, not all areas of the park are open to pets. Bryant Grove and Couchville Lake picnic areas do not allow dogs or other pets. Please note pet accessibility signs at various locations inside the park.
Please Remember
Long Hunter is a sanctuary. All area features including plants
and animals (living and non-living), rocks, minerals, artifacts,
and fossils are protected by State law. Violators are subject
to prosecution. Please be careful with fires and help us keep
your park neat and natural.
History
View the History
of Long Hunter State Park
Tour Buses
Tour buses are welcome to the park.