Tucked away in the rolling hills of southwestern Tennessee, Big Hill Pond State Park in Pocahontas is one of those rare places that makes you stop and catch your breath. With towering trees, a shimmering lake, winding trails, and wildlife around every corner, this park feels like nature at its absolute finest.
Whether you are looking for a peaceful weekend escape or an action-packed outdoor adventure, this gem delivers on every level. Read on to discover the 13 reasons why Big Hill Pond State Park is truly a slice of paradise on earth.
The Breathtaking Observation Tower with Panoramic Views
Standing at the top of the fire observation tower at Big Hill Pond State Park is one of those moments you will talk about for years. Visitors consistently rave about the view, and once you reach the top after 81 steps, it is easy to see why.
The sweeping landscape stretches out in every direction, painting a picture of pure Tennessee wilderness.
The climb itself is manageable for most hikers, including beginners and kids who are up for a little adventure. Just be warned — if heights make your knees wobble, hold on tight to the railing!
The tower is accessible via well-marked trails that wind through beautiful woodland scenery.
Many visitors say the observation tower alone is worth the entire drive out to Pocahontas. Pack your camera, charge your phone, and get ready for views that will absolutely take your breath away.
Travis McNatt Lake: A Fisherman’s Dream Come True
Travis McNatt Lake is one of the crown jewels of Big Hill Pond State Park, and anglers absolutely love it. The lake offers excellent fishing opportunities, with visitors spotting promising catches right from the shoreline.
Whether you are a seasoned pro or just learning to cast a line, the peaceful atmosphere makes every fishing trip feel rewarding.
Fun fact: the park recently drained the lake to remove invasive plant species, which actually had a silver lining — wildlife became far more visible than usual during that time. Once restored, the lake is expected to be even more beautiful and thriving than before.
Surrounded by towering trees and quiet trails, the lake area is a wonderful spot to simply sit and soak in the scenery. Bring your gear, grab a snack, and enjoy one of the most relaxing experiences this park has to offer.
The Dismal Swamp Boardwalk: Surprisingly Beautiful
Do not let the name fool you — there is absolutely nothing dismal about the Dismal Swamp Boardwalk at Big Hill Pond State Park. This elevated wooden walkway carries visitors through a hauntingly gorgeous swamp landscape filled with towering trees, still water, and fascinating wildlife.
It is the kind of place that makes you feel like you have stepped into a nature documentary.
Hikers who have experienced the boardwalk describe it as one of the most memorable parts of any visit to the park. The unique ecosystem supports all kinds of birds, insects, and plant life that you simply will not find anywhere else nearby.
Keep in mind that the boardwalk has occasionally been closed for storm damage repairs, so it is always smart to check ahead before visiting. When it is open, however, it is an absolute must-do experience that surprises nearly every visitor who walks it.
Kayaking and Stargazing Floats on the Pond
Imagine floating quietly across a glassy pond under a sky absolutely packed with stars — that is exactly what the Stargazing Float events at Big Hill Pond State Park offer. One visitor called it “absolutely wonderful and SO incredibly beautiful,” and honestly, it is hard to imagine a more magical Tennessee evening than that.
Beyond the stargazing floats, regular kayak rentals give visitors a chance to paddle around at their own pace and explore the water from a completely different perspective. The park staff running these events are consistently praised for being sweet, professional, and genuinely helpful.
If you are planning a visit, keep an eye on the park’s event calendar so you do not miss a scheduled stargazing float. At around $20 per person, it is one of the most affordable and unforgettable outdoor experiences in all of western Tennessee.
Bring a friend and enjoy every moment.
Miles of Scenic Hiking Trails for Every Skill Level
Big Hill Pond State Park has earned a loyal following among hikers from across the region, and it is not hard to understand why. The trail system here is well-laid-out, clearly marked, and offers routes suited for everyone from first-time walkers to experienced outdoor enthusiasts.
One reviewer called it one of their favorite hiking spots within a two-hour radius of Jackson, Tennessee.
Trails loop through dense woodland, along the lake shoreline, and up toward the famous observation tower, giving hikers a varied and rewarding experience throughout. Some sections feature rough terrain that adds a satisfying challenge without being overwhelming for most visitors.
Always bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to tackle a longer loop. A trails app can also be handy for staying on course if you wander off the beaten path.
The hike to the tower is particularly popular and well worth every step of the journey.
Primitive Camping Under a Canopy of Stars
There is something deeply satisfying about falling asleep to the sounds of nature with zero city noise in the background. Big Hill Pond State Park offers primitive camping that delivers exactly that kind of stripped-back, soul-refreshing experience.
Campers who have returned multiple times describe the park as their go-to weekend escape from the hustle of nearby Memphis.
The campsites are well-shaded and kept clean, with bathrooms that are maintained to a surprisingly high standard for an outdoor facility. While there are no electrical hookups available, smaller campers and RVs can still find suitable spots to park comfortably.
For stargazing enthusiasts, this park is a dream. One camper mentioned visiting three times and always finding the campground blissfully empty, making it an ideal retreat for those craving true solitude.
If you love the idea of waking up in the middle of the Tennessee wilderness, this camping experience is calling your name.
Disc Golf: A Fun Twist on a Classic Outdoor Adventure
Not everyone who visits Big Hill Pond State Park is there strictly to hike or fish, and that is perfectly fine — because the park also features a disc golf course that adds a whole new layer of fun to any outdoor visit. Disc golf is easy to learn, free-spirited, and genuinely enjoyable for people of all ages and athletic abilities.
Playing a round through the wooded terrain adds a natural challenge that a typical open course simply cannot match. Dodging trees, reading the wind, and chasing your disc through the underbrush makes every hole feel like a mini adventure of its own.
Whether you are a disc golf veteran or picking up a disc for the very first time, the course at Big Hill Pond is a fantastic way to spend a few relaxed hours outdoors. Bring your own discs or ask park staff about equipment availability when you arrive.
The Small Aviary: An Unexpected Delight for All Ages
Stumbling upon the aviary at Big Hill Pond State Park feels like finding a little bonus gift tucked inside an already incredible park. Home to birds like a beautiful great horned owl and a striking red-tailed hawk, the aviary gives visitors a rare close-up look at native Tennessee wildlife that most people never get to see in person.
Families with kids especially love this stop, and it often becomes one of the most talked-about highlights of a visit. The birds are well cared for and displayed in a way that feels educational without being overly formal or stuffy.
The aviary sits near the welcome center, making it a natural first stop when you arrive at the park. Give yourself a few extra minutes to linger here before hitting the trails — it is a genuinely charming experience that surprises nearly every visitor who takes the time to stop and look.
Horseback Riding Trails Through Tennessee Wilderness
Big Hill Pond State Park is one of the few Tennessee state parks where you can explore the landscape on horseback, and that alone makes it stand out from the crowd. The horse-friendly trails wind through dense forest and open terrain, offering a truly immersive way to experience the park’s natural beauty at a slower, more contemplative pace.
One visitor mentioned bringing their mule out for a ride and described the setting as gorgeous, though they noted that horse trail markings could use some improvement to prevent accidental detours onto hiking-only paths. It is a fair point worth keeping in mind when planning your route.
If you own or have access to a horse, this is an opportunity that is hard to pass up. The combination of quiet trails, rich woodland scenery, and fresh Tennessee air makes for a riding experience that feels worlds away from everyday life.
Wildlife Watching: Nature Shows Up in Full Force Here
Wildlife lovers, mark this park on your map immediately. Big Hill Pond State Park is home to a rich variety of native Tennessee animals, and visitors frequently report incredible sightings right along the trails.
During a recent period when the lake was temporarily drained, one reviewer noted that animals were far more visible than in any other nearby park — a silver lining that turned into an unforgettable wildlife-watching experience.
From deer grazing at the forest edge to birds calling overhead, the park buzzes with natural life in every season. The quieter atmosphere — since the park rarely draws massive crowds — means animals tend to be less skittish and more willing to linger in plain sight.
Bring a pair of binoculars and move slowly along the trails for the best results. Early morning visits tend to yield the most sightings, when animals are most active and the park feels especially serene and undisturbed.
Picnicking and Grilling: The Perfect Family Day Out
Sometimes the best outdoor memories are made around a grill with good food and even better company. Big Hill Pond State Park provides a wonderful setting for family picnics, with shaded spots, clean facilities, and a relaxed atmosphere that encourages everyone to slow down and enjoy the moment together.
Visitors have praised the park for its well-maintained grounds and clean restrooms, which makes a big difference when you are spending a full day outside with kids in tow. Pack a cooler, fire up the grill, and let the afternoon stretch out at whatever pace feels right for your group.
The park also has playground areas, making it a genuinely family-friendly destination where little ones can burn off energy between meals. Whether you are celebrating something special or just enjoying a spontaneous Saturday outing, a picnic at Big Hill Pond hits differently than any restaurant ever could.
The Welcome Center and Gift Shop: A Charming First Stop
Walking into the welcome center at Big Hill Pond State Park sets a warm, inviting tone for the entire visit. The staff and park rangers here have been praised again and again in visitor reviews for being genuinely helpful, knowledgeable, and friendly in a way that feels completely authentic rather than scripted.
The small gift shop attached to the welcome center may be modest in size, but visitors consistently describe it as surprisingly cute and worth a browse. One reviewer called the woman working there extremely sweet — the kind of warm human touch that makes a place feel special long after you have driven home.
Stopping at the welcome center first is a smart move for any new visitor. Rangers can point you toward the best trails for your fitness level, give you a heads-up about any closures, and help you make the most of every hour spent in this wonderful park.
A True Hidden Gem Just Two Hours from Memphis
Here is the thing about Big Hill Pond State Park that makes it extra special: not enough people know about it. Visitors who have been there multiple times consistently remark on how quiet and uncrowded the park tends to be, even on weekends.
For anyone living in or around Memphis, that kind of peaceful escape is genuinely priceless.
Located at 1435 John Howell Rd in Pocahontas, Tennessee, the park sits within a two-hour drive of Memphis and Jackson, making it an easy and affordable weekend getaway without the need for a long road trip. With a 4.6-star rating across hundreds of reviews, the quality of the experience speaks for itself.
The park is open daily from 8 AM to 4:30 PM, and you can reach them at 888-867-2757 or visit tnstateparks.com/parks/big-hill-pond for more information. Once you visit, chances are you will be planning your return trip before you even leave the parking lot.