Tennessee Dedicated Dry Branch as 68th State Park
The 2,500-acre site preserves rare ecological life across three counties.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in National Parks
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Tennessee officials officially designated Dry Branch State Natural Area as the state’s 68th park. The site, which covers more than 2,500 acres, is located at the intersection of Lewis, Hickman, and Perry counties.
Why it matters
The park provides permanent protection for ecologically significant land and rare plant species, including the endangered Tennessee yellow-eyed grass. Its designation follows decades of conservation efforts to preserve the local habitat.
The park spans more than 2,500 acres across Lewis, Hickman, and Perry counties. Protection efforts for the site date back to 2003, and the land remains secured under the Natural Areas Preservation Act.
The players
The Nature Conservancy
This global environmental organization focuses on the conservation of lands and waters on which all life depends.
Tennessee General Assembly
This is the state legislature of Tennessee that provides funding and legal authorization for state government initiatives.
The details
The site was secured through a partnership between the State of Tennessee and The Nature Conservancy, with resources provided by the Tennessee General Assembly and the Governor. The park will continue to fall under the regulatory framework of the Natural Areas Preservation Act to ensure the longevity of its biodiversity.
Timeline
Land protection efforts for the site began in 2003.
State officials formally dedicated the new park on September 23, 2026.
Travel Outlook
This designation follows the precedent of the Natural Areas Preservation Act to ensure environmental longevity in Tennessee. It reflects a broader shift toward expanding protected public lands within the state's park system.
Visitors should anticipate that the area operates under specific mandates from the Natural Areas Preservation Act, which may limit certain recreational activities to protect endangered species. Travelers visiting the tri-county area should check local signage for new trail access and park rules.
The takeaway
The addition of this site underscores the state's ongoing commitment to preserving rare botanical life for future generations. Residents can support these efforts by practicing leave-no-trace habits when exploring protected natural areas.
Further reading
Learn more about the state's protected landscapes in the National Parks section.
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Should states convert protected natural areas into public state parks to increase outdoor access?
