This 1,247-acre area is located on the east banks of the Tennessee
River in the state's picturesque Western valley. Tradition has it
that Mousetail Landing received its name during the Civil War
period when one of the area's tanning companies caught fire. The
exodus of mice fleeing the burning tannery was so profuse that the
area in proximity of the park became known as Mousetail Landing.
The scenic Buffalo River flows nearby, providing opportunity for
family canoe float trips.
The park campground has a modern bathhouse, laundromat, and
electricity/water hookups to 19 of the 24 campsites. A dump station
is also located within this area. Spring Creek is a 21-site
campground found on the banks of the Tennessee River.
Campsites are equipped with picnic tables and grills.
Backcountry camping is allowed but requires a permit.
The park has one day-use, three mile trail and there is one over
night, eight mile trail with two screened in shelters. These
backcountry shelters have bunkbeds and each shelter sleeps 8
people. Shelter #2 is on a large limestone bluff overlooking the
Tennessee River and Busseltown Wildlife Management Area. Shelter #1
is located in a scenic hardwood forest.
There are approximately 25 picnic tables scattered throughout
the park, 16 of these tables having grills nearby. Some tables can
be pulled together for larger groups. Picnic areas are first-come,
first-served with the exception of the pavilions.
There is one large pavilion that can accommodate up to 100
people. Reservations for the pavilion can be made up to one year in
advance. There is a fee for rental of the pavilion. Also available
for rent is 144 sq. ft. gazebo. Contact the park for more
information.
A swimming beach area has been established on the Spring Creek
embayment, a branch of the Tennessee River. Swimming is at your own
risk. There is NO lifeguard on duty.
A small stream at the entrance of the park is enjoyable for
small children and adults to wade in with its cold, clear
water.
Cache is a small Lock-N-Lock hidden near the gazebo pavilion. If
the pavilion is in use, come back another time.
