Tennessee – Tennessee State Parks officials announced upcoming improvements at Henry Horton State Park, featuring a new 76-room lodge, an enhanced park entrance, accessibility updates, and improved river access points. These upgrades will follow a master plan that emphasizes the Duck River’s significance in visitor experiences.
The construction project will involve the demolition of older structures, including the former restaurant building, current lodge, and swimming pool. To minimize disruptions, construction activities will be phased, and the existing lodge will remain open until the new facility is completed.
Greer Tidwell, deputy commissioner for Conservation at the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, expressed gratitude for the support from Governor Bill Lee and the General Assembly. He highlighted the ongoing improvements to the Visitor Center, restaurant, and recreational amenities, emphasizing the park’s importance to the community and visitors.
Park manager Shaun Rainone shared enthusiasm for the new features and assured the community that updates on the project’s progress would be provided throughout construction.
The newly unveiled lodge design will offer scenic views of the park, with indoor and outdoor gathering spaces, meeting venues, guest rooms and suites, a breakfast/evening social area, a gift shop, and a pool for lodge guests.
Henry Horton State Park, established in the 1960s on the estate of former Tennessee Governor Henry Horton, is located along the Duck River, which is known for its diverse ecosystem. Governor Lee recently preserved the area through an Executive Order as part of his long-term conservation strategy.