Chattanooga, TN – The Tennessee Department of Agriculture Division of Forestry (TDF) has announced the establishment of Wolf River State Forest, spanning 5,477 acres in Fayette County.

This property will officially become the state’s 16th state forest and is set to open to the public in 2025.

Preparations for the new state forest are underway, including surveying, installing signage, and organizing a ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for early next year.

The forest, located along the Wolf River, is part of the historic Ames Plantation. Originally established in the early 1900s by industrialist Hobart Ames, the plantation became a hub for scientific research and bird dog championships through the Hobart Ames Foundation, created by Ames’ wife after his passing.

Wolf River State Forest will continue this legacy by offering opportunities for conservation and recreation.