Red Clay State Historic Park

Red Clay State Historic Park Red Clay served as the seat of Cherokee government from 1832 until their forced removal in 1838. There is also a natural landmark known as blue hole spring.
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This park brings to life the reality of the removal of Cherokee life during the 19th century. Located on the land where the Cherokee council once met, this park provides opportunities to learn about the Cherokee, and provides amenities such as picnic areas and an amphitheater. More information on this park and many more can be found at the TN State Parks website.

Come out to Red Clay this week for a fun and educational program with SIR Crow!Learn to identify trees based on their le...
06/22/2026

Come out to Red Clay this week for a fun and educational program with SIR Crow!

Learn to identify trees based on their leaves, dive into local Cherokee history through a weapons program, and more!

For more information and to sign up, check out the following link: https://tnstateparks.com/parks/red-clay

What should you bring to the 2026 Cherokee Cultural Celebration? Here are some suggestions!1. Sun Protection - Sunscreen...
06/20/2026

What should you bring to the 2026 Cherokee Cultural Celebration? Here are some suggestions!

1. Sun Protection - Sunscreen is a must! Sunglasses are a good idea, too. Keep your eyes and skin safe!

2. If the forecast shows rain, we recommend bringing an umbrella or raincoat with you to stay dry.

3. A Lawn Chair - Seating for watching performers and the stickball game will be LIMITED! We highly recommend bringing your own lawn chair for the event.

4. Cash - Admission ($5) at the gate is CASH ONLY, and many vendors accept only cash! Make sure you have plenty for admission, food, and crafts!

5. A Refillable Water Bottle - It's going to be hot, y'all! Plan on bringing water. There will be drinks available for purchase from food vendors and a free water bottle filling station inside the Visitor Center. Stay hydrated!

6. Comfortable Walking Shoes - Explore the park in the comfort of a good pair of walking shoes!

We hope to see you there!

For more information on the event, check out the following link: https://tnstateparks.com/events/cherokee-cultural-celebration-2026

06/19/2026
Thank you to the West Polk County Library for inviting us to talk about archaeology with Benton Elementary students! We ...
06/17/2026

Thank you to the West Polk County Library for inviting us to talk about archaeology with Benton Elementary students!

We discussed the differences between historians, archaeologists, and paleontologists, then had students participate in a mini archaeological dig!

Come see us at the Cleveland Honeybee Festival today! Find us at the corner of SW 1st St. and SW Broad St. to grab a sti...
06/13/2026

Come see us at the Cleveland Honeybee Festival today!

Find us at the corner of SW 1st St. and SW Broad St. to grab a sticker and learn about culturally significant plants that pollinators use!

Thank you to the folks who joined us for National Trails Day last Saturday! It was most of our group’s first time experi...
06/09/2026

Thank you to the folks who joined us for National Trails Day last Saturday!

It was most of our group’s first time experiencing Red Clay, which made the program extra special.

If you haven’t gotten a chance to visit us yet, keep an eye out for the next Signature Hike: the Day After Thanksgiving Hike! These programs are a fantastic way to explore a new park for the first time.

Check out what we've got going on this week!On June 13th, you can find us at the Cleveland Honeybee Festival, so there w...
06/08/2026

Check out what we've got going on this week!

On June 13th, you can find us at the Cleveland Honeybee Festival, so there will be no dedicated programming at the park that day. Come find us there to learn about the Cherokees' connection to native plants!

The 2026 Cherokee Cultural Celebration is almost 2 months away!Join us for the 2026 Cherokee Cultural Celebration at Red...
06/06/2026

The 2026 Cherokee Cultural Celebration is almost 2 months away!

Join us for the 2026 Cherokee Cultural Celebration at Red Clay State Historic Park! Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the Cherokee people through demonstrations, dancing, music, & more! The event will be on both August 8th & 9th.

Indulge in delicious frybread, participate in a traditional Cherokee dance with the Warriors of AniKituhwa, and listen to music by Cherokee artists!

The cost of attendance is $5 per vehicle. Cash will be taken at the gate on the days of the event. Handicap accessible parking is available via the main park gate (address is 1140 Red Clay Park Rd SW).

The full schedule of events will be posted on our page as soon as it is available.

We hope to see you there!

On your next hike, take it slow. Look not just at the trail ahead, but at the whole of the world around you. Little bits...
06/03/2026

On your next hike, take it slow.

Look not just at the trail ahead, but at the whole of the world around you. Little bits of joy await you!

Here are some happy sights from Red Clay over the last few days.

📍 Red Clay SHP, Blue Hole Trail

06/03/2026

Address

1140 Red Clay Park Road SW
Cleveland, TN
37311

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 6pm
Tuesday 8am - 6pm
Wednesday 8am - 6pm
Thursday 8am - 6pm
Friday 8am - 6pm
Saturday 8am - 6pm
Sunday 8am - 6pm

Telephone

+18888672757

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