Park Office / Visitor Center

"Tucked away in the northwest corner of the state, Reelfoot is the only natural lake in Tennessee. However, the body of water was formed in a quite unnatural way, when the great New Madrid Earthquake of 1812 caused the Mississippi River to flow backward and flood a low cypress swamp. Today, the shallow 15,000-acre lake is still filled with cypress trees, which serve as home to all manner of aquatic life. Hunters and fishermen flock to the area, while birders come to see and photograph regular visits by bald eagles. Surrounding the lake are several small towns and seafood restaurants, where you can dig into platters of fried catfish and crappie. A modern state park on the southwest shore offers campsites and seven premium cabins for more luxurious accommodations."