Tennessee state officials announced plans to create a new state park at McDonald Farm, a historic property spanning over 1,300 acres across Hamilton and Rhea counties. Governor Bill Lee’s proposed 2026 state budget includes $45.3 million to support the project, which would represent the largest parks investment in Hamilton County history.
Under the proposed terms, approximately 800 acres in Hamilton County and 500 acres in Rhea County would be transferred to the state, while Hamilton County would retain roughly 800 acres.
More than 250 acres of the county-retained land will remain as a county park, including the McDonald homestead, which hosts the annual Hamilton County Fair. The final transfer requires approval by the Hamilton County Commission.
Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp highlighted both conservation and economic potential, saying, “Hamilton County has a unique opportunity to both preserve the iconic landscape of McDonald Farm and create an economic engine that will connect the Cumberland Trail to Sale Creek. We are incredibly grateful to Governor Lee and TDEC for proposing funding that would represent the largest parks investment in Hamilton County history and the largest single capital investment ever made in North Hamilton County.”
State Senator Bo Watson emphasized the broader benefits of the investment.
“Governor Lee’s $45.3 million investment protects this beautiful property, strengthens outdoor recreation, and delivers a strong return for taxpayers. I’m proud to support a project that preserves McDonald Farm and enhances quality of life in our community,” he told East Ridge News Online.
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) estimates that parks of similar scope generate approximately $11 million in annual economic output and support an average of 77 jobs.
The state also plans to provide $1 million annually for park operations, which will include camping and recreational amenities and construction of a visitor center. McDonald Farm is slated to become Tennessee’s 70th state park, part of Governor Lee’s broader initiative to expand the state park system.
“Tennessee State Parks is dedicated to preserving, protecting, and sharing our natural resources with Tennesseans and visitors alike,” said TDEC Deputy Commissioner Brian Clifford.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with local leaders toward the goal of conserving a significant portion of McDonald Farm and adding it to Tennessee’s enduring legacy of conservation.”
Hamilton County Commissioner Gene-O Shipley, representing Soddy-Daisy and Sale Creek, has been a long-time advocate for preserving McDonald Farm.
“For years, the people in my district and Hamilton County have asked us to preserve McDonald Farm, and today, we’re doing just that. This decision protects our quality of life and ensures this land remains intact for future generations,” he said.
The Hamilton County Commission is expected to consider a resolution to approve the transfer of land to the state in the coming weeks.
For businesses in the outdoor hospitality sector, this development presents potential opportunities for recreation-based services, including campgrounds, trail systems, and visitor amenities, which could attract additional tourism to the region.