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Big Hill Pond
Overview
Big Hill Pond State Park offers a unique landscape in the southwestern corner of Tennessee. Covering over 4,000 acres, this park is named for the 35-acre pond created in 1853 when soil was excavated for a railroad levee across the Tuscumbia River bottom. It features a striking contrast between dense hardwood forests and cypress-filled wetlands. RVers visiting this destination will find a peaceful escape that prioritizes natural beauty and quiet observation over modern resort luxuries.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in Pocahontas, TN, the park sits near the confluence of the Tuscumbia River and Cypress Creek. The terrain is characterized by high ridges and swampy bottomlands, offering a diverse ecosystem for local wildlife. The park is located just a short drive from the Mississippi border, providing a rural and historic backdrop for travelers navigating the backroads of West Tennessee. The surrounding area is exceptionally quiet, offering a true sense of seclusion and deep immersion in nature.
Amenities & Park Features
The park features the Timberland Campground, which provides 28 rustic campsites for visitors looking for a traditional outdoor experience. It is important for RVers to note that these sites do not offer water or electrical hookups, making it an ideal spot for those equipped for dry camping or boondocking. Facilities include a central bathhouse with hot showers and restrooms to ensure basic comforts for all guests. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a grill, perfect for evening meals under the canopy of trees.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore over 30 miles of multipurpose trails within the park boundaries. Key activities and attractions include:
- Climbing the 70-foot observation tower for panoramic views of the pond and forest.
- Hiking the dismal swamp boardwalk that winds through towering cypress trees.
- Visiting the nearby Shiloh National Military Park to explore significant Civil War history.
- Fishing or paddling on the serene waters of the 35-acre Big Hill Pond.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for travelers who prefer a primitive camping experience and wish to disconnect from the digital world. It is a haven for birdwatchers and photographers who appreciate the haunting beauty of cypress trees rising from the water. If you enjoy rugged trail systems and the serenity of a quiet forest over the noisy amenities of a crowded modern RV resort, this park is a perfect fit for your travel style.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Nikolai Knox
Really nice. I can’t wait till everything is fully renovated. It was a little disappointing that their two main attractions were closed but their trails and the Lookout were well worth the drive!
Romain Fromage
Not a lot of visitors since the lake is empty due to actions taken by the park management to remove invasive plants. It should be full again by wintertime. The benefit is that animals were much more visible than in other parks.
Parker Talley
My last review was four stars. This was a mistake of my phone. It must have been bouncing around hitting buttons while in the center console of my truck. Big Hill Pond is a solid five stars!i! I have been here multiple times and have never had anything but a wonderful experience! The boardwalk and fire tower are must! Both are easily accessible by beginner hikers. The view from the top of the fire tower is breathtaking to say the least! If you live in Memphis or surrounding areas, Big Hill Pond is the perfect place to scoot away for the weekend. It has been my spot to do so for years! (Pictures are from my very first visit some 10+ years ago)
Joseph Pierce
We enjoyed our time here and we will definitely be coming back. The parks rangers were all very accommodating and helpful and we were able to hike, kayak, play disc golf, camp, picnic, grill out, bonfire. They even had a cool lookout tower that is not for the faint of heart if your afraid of hieghts. Very good time.
Michael Richardson
The activities available here are countless. From Kayak rentals to Disc Golf this park has everything! After a quick stop at the welcome center, viewing the small aviary and using the amenities at the campground. I made the hike to the Observation Tower and up it. There wasn't a dull moment the entire time. The view from the top is amazing. I might have spotted one piece of trash the whole hike. The bathrooms at the campground were definitely public outdoor restrooms but also very well kept. I will definitely be looking forward to another trip here for a longer duration.