A comprehensive master plan outlining the long-term restoration of David Crockett Birthplace State Park has been released following extensive flood damage caused by Hurricane Helene, which forced the park’s closure in September 2024.
The park, located in Greene County, Tennessee, has remained closed since the storm inundated large portions of the site, disrupting an area that has welcomed visitors since the mid-1800s and has operated as a Tennessee state park since 1973.
The newly released plan details the next phase of recovery and redevelopment, addressing both infrastructure damage and long-term resiliency while preserving the park’s significance as the birthplace of one of Tennessee’s most recognized figures.
Northeast Tennessee residents participated in a public planning process, with community members and volunteers assisting in cleanup efforts and providing firsthand input on the park’s most urgent needs.
A public hearing was held in June, marking approximately nine months since the flood, where proposed changes were discussed, including the addition of a playground, a community amphitheater, a boat ramp, and a black powder and archery range, as well as the removal of the swimming pool.
By August 2025, Kimley-Horn, the engineering, planning, and design consultant selected for the project, had begun developing overall redesign concepts for the park in collaboration with Tennessee State Parks.
“I am grateful to the stakeholders who worked tirelessly on this master plan to restore their community following Hurricane Helene,” Governor Bill Lee said, as reported by 99.5 FM WGRV on January 6.
“The people of Northeast Tennessee are resilient and have taken great pride in efforts to support the region, including David Crockett Birthplace State Park. This plan preserves the historical significance of the park and will ensure it flourishes for future generations,” Lee added.
Developed through collaboration between Tennessee State Parks and Kimley-Horn, the master plan maintains the park’s core features while introducing enhancements designed to improve safety, accessibility, and visitor experience across the property.
Planned improvements include a relocated main entrance, a new visitor center with museum space and campground amenities, a rebuilt campground, elevated riverfront trails, expanded day-use facilities, and the relocation of key historic elements above the high-water line, while the Crockett Shoals Trailhead remains the only area currently open to the public.