Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park

Don't forget to visit our gift shop and pick up our latest shirt designs, walking stick medallions and newly stocked camp store!

There’s nothing quite like watching fresh confidence build on the water. 💙

Today, 11 kayakers joined us for our annual Kayaking 101 class at Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park. Under the expert guidance of our very own Ranger ANDe Demetriou (who is also a certified ACA Level 2 river kayaking instructor trainer) and his team, these paddlers mastered the basics to kick off their kayaking adventures safely.

This day wouldn't be possible without our amazing partners: ACA Tennessee, Tennessee State Parks, and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA). Thank you for keeping our waters safe and our community growing!

Join Ranger Demetriou for this Kayaking 101 class at Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park. This Kayaking 101 class is normally $85 but is being offered for $15 on May 16.

Not close to Meeman-Shelby Forest? Check this link for a park near you!

**REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN for KAYAKING 101 classes at TENNESSEE STATE PARKS for NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK**

REGISTER NOW:
https://tnstateparks.com/about/special-events/boat-and-paddling-tours

For the 5th year in a row, Tennessee State Parks and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency are teaming up with paddlesports leaders across the state to offer low-cost beginner kayaking classes Saturday, May 16 to kick off National Safe Boating Week.

Each class costs just $15 per person, including kayak rental and all necessary gear - to receive training that typically costs between $75 and $150. Each park’s session is limited to 15 participants. Instructors are American Canoe Association (ACA)-certified Tennessee volunteers backed by experienced safety teams.

All classes will be held on Saturday, May 16 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, rain or shine.

*This is a special once a year opportunity made possible by local volunteers in celebration of National Safe Boating Week.

LAKE CLASSES:
- Big Ridge State Park
- Harrison Bay State Park
- Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
- Natchez Trace State Park
- Warriors’ Path State Park

RIVER CLASSES:
- David Crockett Birthplace State Park
- Harpeth River State Park
- Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park
- Seven Islands State Birding Park

SPECIALTY CLASSES:
- Long Hunter State Park - KAYAK FISHING 101
- Booker T. Washington State Park - ADAPTIVE KAYAKING 101

In addition to Tennessee State Parks, Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, ACA Tennessee, and U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, supporting organizations for the event include volunteer instructors certified by the American Canoe Association; Appalachian Paddling Enthusiasts; Bluff City Canoe Club; West Tennessee Canoe & Kayak Club, Chattanooga Therapeutic Recreation Services; Chota Canoe Club; East Tennessee Whitewater Club; Harpeth Conservancy, NOLI - Nolichucky Outdoor Learning Institute; Outdoor Chattanooga, Team River Runner - Atlanta; Tennessee RiverLine; Tennessee Scenic Rivers Association; Tennessee Valley Canoe Club; Tennessee Kayak Anglers; and Tennessee Office of Outdoor Recreation.

REGISTER NOW:
https://tnstateparks.com/about/special-events/boat-and-paddling-tours

Unfortunately, due to the weather, we are unable to do our Nighttime Easter Egg Hunt tonight. However, with nearly 1000 eggs, hotdogs to grill, and S'mores and hot chocolate, we are absolutely rescheduling to the night of Friday, April 24th. This is an event your kids will remember forever!

Look for a promotional video in the near future!

Last chance to apply for Seasonal Interpretive Ranger positions!

This is a great summer opportunity for college students looking to build outdoor experience while creating fun, educational programs for park visitors of all ages.

You’ll also play a role in protecting the park’s natural resources while working directly with Park Rangers.

Apply now at tnstateparks.info/SIRApply26.

Applications close February 17.