T.O. Fuller State Park – One of Memphis’ Hidden Treasures

Located in South Memphis, T O Fuller State Park is one of the city’s most interesting and hidden treasures. Whether you’re looking for a place to hike, camp, or even just take a refreshing dip in an Olympic-size pool, this park has it all.

The park was named for Thomas Oscar Fuller, a prominent African American educator, pastor, politician, and civic leader. He spent his life empowering and educating Black Americans. Read on to find out more.

Hiking Trails

There’s so much to do in Memphis, and few things are as enjoyable as a day in the great outdoors. There are many hiking trails in and around the city that offer different sceneries, from pristine forests to waterfront views.

T O Fuller State Park is a hidden gem tucked away in the southern part of the city. With over 1100 acres of natural habitat, it’s a popular spot for hikers and birdwatchers.

The trails at T O Fuller State Park are classified as moderate to rugged so make sure you come prepared with the proper clothing and bring plenty of water. There are several hiking trails to choose from, including the Discovery Trail which allows you to visit Chucalissa Indian Village and Wetlands.

The park also offers 45 campsites that are suitable for tent and RV campers, with a grill, a nearby bathhouse, and a laundry facility. Guests can also enjoy 35 picnic tables throughout the park.

Camping

Located about 13 miles southwest of downtown Memphis, T O Fuller State Park offers 45 RV and tent-accessible campsites, an Olympic-size swimming pool, and picnic areas with trails. The park also features Chucalissa Indian Village, a reconstructed Native American village and museum that interprets regional archaeology.

Founded in 1933 as the first state park east of the Mississippi River open to African Americans, this park has a rich history. It was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), which worked to preserve nature and teach African American history.

The park is home to many birds and wildlife, including red-tailed hawks. Its 1,138 acres are diverse in flora and fauna, from the Mississippi flood plains to high bluff ridges.

T O Fuller State Park is a great place to relax and spend time with the family, enjoying picnics on grassy fields. Or if you want to get out and stretch your legs, the park has over 6 miles of hiking trails. During the summer, guests can cool off in an Olympic-size swimming pool. Discover More about Memphis here.

Picnicking

Located on the southern outskirts of Memphis, T O Fuller State Park is one of the city’s most accessible and exciting places to get outdoors. Aside from the park’s sheltered picnic areas, tennis courts, swimming pool, and golf course, it also boasts several trails for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.

The park’s historic significance dates back to its inception when it was originally called Shelby County Negro State Park and was the first park east of the Mississippi River that opened to African Americans. During the construction of a swimming pool in 1940, CCC workers uncovered evidence of a prehistoric Native American village that has since been designated a national landmark.

Today, T O Fuller State Park is home to the only state park within Memphis’ city limits and offers a wide variety of activities for the entire family. It is also the perfect place to explore the city’s rich history while soaking in nature’s beauty.

Golf Course

The only state park within Memphis city limits, T O Fuller State Park protects and showcases a unique natural habitat while offering a wide range of outdoor recreational assets. The newly renovated interpretive nature center, playgrounds, an Olympic-size pool and splash pad, ball fields, basketball and tennis courts, picnic shelters, and terrific gathering spaces make it a perfect destination for family fun.

T O Fuller State Park has a challenging 18-hole golf course designed by Jim Hardy in 1956. It has fairways and greens of Bermuda grass, water hazards, and a few bunkers.

Its signature hole is a 196-yard, par-3 that requires an accurate tee shot to reach a small elevated green. The course has been recognized as one of the best courses in Tennessee by the TN Golf Course Association.

In a quest to make the environment a little more sustainable, park officials have recently begun a long-term project to convert the former 5,986-yard golf course into a lush wildlife habitat area. Streams and wetlands are now being restored, drainage tiles have been removed and native grasses and trees are being planted. Browse the next article.

 

 

Driving directions from Heavenly Sunshine Cleaning, Inc. to T.O. Fuller State Park

Driving directions from T.O. Fuller State Park to Central Park