Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park

Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park was constructed by the Works Progress Administration, a Depression Era work recovery program. It is home to the Tennessee River Folklife Interpretive Center and Museum, situated on one of the highest points in West Tennessee, Pilot Knob. The center features the life ways and customs of folks on the Tennessee River including musseling, crafts, commercial fishing and more. Several videos on park history, Civil War history and river life are shown upon request.

The park was named after a Confederate cavalry leader, General Nathan Bedford Forrest. Although a controversial figure, Forrest is remembered by some as a noted military tactician of the Civil War. On November 4, 1864, he attacked and destroyed the Johnsonville Federal supply and munitions depot across the river. His operations were concentrated in the vicinity of the town of Eva and along the river, where the park is located now.

Nathan Bedford Forrest State Parks strives to protect and preserve the historical, cultural and natural features of the area:

To provide quality recreational activities and facilities to all individuals

To plan and operate these recreational pursuits, to provide an accurate interpretation of life in or around the Tennessee River area of Western Tennessee including cultural, historical and industrial aspects.

To provide an accurate historical representation of civil war history with an emphasis on General Nathan Bedford Forrest. 

To provide information and education on native plant life and wildlife with an emphasis on reptiles.