If you look at a map of Tennessee, you might miss the tiny city of Byrdstown. Located near the state line that divides Tennessee and Kentucky, this little burg has a population of less than 1000 people. Despite its diminutive size, Byrdstown offers plenty to do with an old-time Norman Rockwell feeling. American flags wave outside downtown businesses and the locals are quick to offer a cheery “good morning” and a wave.
The town square, the hub of activity, circles the historic Pickett County courthouse. Built in 1935, this majestic brick building replaces the original courthouse from 1890, which burned to the ground in 1934.
Where To Stay Near Byrdstown, Tennessee
There are plenty of campgrounds and cabins within a few miles of Byrdstown. In addition to several private RV parks, there are several state parks fairly close by that offer primitive and full hookup camping. Here are a few worth checking out.
Owl Hollow Retreat RV Campground
This mid-sized RV park, nestled in the rolling hills of northern Tennessee, is centrally located between several attractions and historic sites. The Owl Hollow Retreat offers level gravel sites to accommodate RVs of all sizes. 20, 30, and 50-amp service is available, as well as water and sewer hookups. Each site includes a fire ring, picnic table, and courtesy lights. Well-behaved pets are welcome and the park offers Wi-Fi service. Rates are reasonable and comparable with other parks in the area.
Obey River Campground
Obey River Campground is a beautiful park along the shore of Dale Hollow Lake. Grassy lawns surround level campsites featuring picnic tables and fire rings. Each campsite offers a panoramic view of the lake, hills, and grasslands of the area. Obey River Campground sites have 20, 30, or 50-amp electrical service and water hookups. The campground features a sandy swimming beach and kayak launch and is just a few minutes from Sunset Marina on Dale Hollow Lake.
Gunnels Camp
For those wanting a more rustic camping experience, Gunnels camp is a primitive recreation area on the banks of the Dale Hollow Lake. The park offers a pit toilet and kayak launch ramp, making it the perfect spot for tent campers looking for an overnight sleeping spot.
Other Places to Stay Near Byrdstown, Tennessee
There is no shortage of camping in the area, even in the busy summer months. Corps of Engineers sites, state parks, and small businesses offer campgrounds to fit the needs of every traveler.
For those wanting more of the comforts of home, cabins and Airbnb rentals are widespread. Prices and amenities vary, so do your research before planning your stay.
Where To Eat Near Byrdstown, Tennessee
Several restaurants and antique stores fill the downtown area. From sweet treats at the local bakery to a creamy cold dish of rolled ice cream, there is something yummy for everyone. Keep in mind that some eateries are closed on Sunday and others have Sunday hours. Also, because many are small businesses, they may operate on a cash-only basis.
The Dixie Cafe
A popular local hangout is the Dixie Cafe in Byrdstown. Not only does the home-style eatery serve delicious food options like pork chops, chicken fried steak, and homemade biscuits and gravy, but they also offer live music on Friday and Saturday nights. The meals are affordable and the portions are filling.
The River Grill
Another popular dinner spot is the River Grill. This chophouse serves fire-grilled steak and pure Angus beef burgers that rival any upscale restaurant. Prices are a little higher than the Dixie Cafe, but that is to be expected for a steak house.
Annie’s Country Kitchen
If breakfast is your meal of the day, you can’t miss the biscuits and gravy at Annie’s Kitchen. Their breakfast portions are filling, delicious, and affordable.
The Dairy Barn
This seasonal ice cream shop offers soft serve, milkshakes, and hotdogs during the summer months. The banana split is great to share with a friend.
Things to Do Near Byrdstown, TN
Dale Hollow Dam and Reservoir
One of the biggest attractions in the area is Dale Hollow Reservoir. Located just a few miles from Byrdstown, this 28,000 acre lake is a favorite among anglers, recreational boaters, and scuba enthusiasts. Waterskiing, wakeboards, and tow-tubes are common sights behind small boats speeding across the lake.
Fishing is the primary draw for lake enthusiasts. Crappie, bass, catfish, and bream are the favorites of local fishermen. Several state records have been pulled from the deep freshwater lake, and bass fishing tournaments occur a couple times a year.
With 620 miles of shoreline, the lake is popular with summer visitors looking for a natural beach to play and swim. There are several public access beaches along the shoreline, and it is recommended you visit one of those areas.
Kayaking and canoeing in the coves and inlets is a great warm-weather activity for all ages. Against the Flow Outfitters offers kayak rentals with paddles and safety equipment. Wolf River Outdoors has kayak and camping equipment rentals and offers a range of kayak trips, including class II whitewater.
A large lodge offers motel-type accomodations. There are also cabin rentals and private rentals surrounding the lake.
Sunset Marina
This hub of activity on Dale Hollow Lake offers boat rentals, including pontoons and houseboats for family gatherings, docking services and a fuel station.
The marina hosts a lakeside restaurant, The Steel Coop, known for its fresh fish specials. Other menu favorites include the hand patted burgers and the loaded nachos platter. Portions are generous and sharing with a friend is entirely possible.
Vacationers will appreciate the cabin and chalet rentals that surround the lake, but these book up quickly. If you are interested in staying in one you should look at Air BnB approximately one year before your scheduled visit.
Arts and Activities Near Byrdstown Tennessee
Downtown Byrdstown is an artisan’s paradise. Galleries and art centers thrive with locals and visitors. Weekly painting classes and art activities are available at Artsy Fartsy and other community centers.
Seasonal festivals and events take place throughout the year in Byrdstown and the surrounding areas. Craft festivals, summer concerts, and a seasonal farmer’s market are just a few of the events that offer entertainment for all ages.
Christmas on the Square transforms the small town into a Victorian village and a parade brings Santa in on a wagon drawn by Kaleb and Kasey, the Clydesdales from K & S Lavender Farm.
Historic Sites Near Byrdstown, TN
For lovers of history, the Highland Rim area abounds with historical markers and state parks. From natural areas to man-made monuments, birthplaces and burial sites, American history fans will find something of interest in Pickett county.
Cordell Hull Birthplace and Museum State Park near Byrdstown is a 55 acre homestead and museum dedicated to the life of former Secretary of State and United Nations Founder Cordell Hull. The museum has a vast display of historic artifacts. The Hull Library and Archives houses hundreds of original photographs and more than 1500 books and documents from the time.
Alvin C. York State Park is just a short drive away, in Pall Mall, TN. York, a decorated World War I soldier gained notoriety as a war hero after the Saturday Evening Post wrote an article about his efforts to defeat the Germans. In 1941, the movie Sargeant York was released and starred Gary Cooper in the lead role. The state park features his house, a gristmill, and a visitor center located in the general store. Just up the road, at Wolf River Cemetary, visitors can view York’s gravesite. There are also numerous other historical grave markers spread throughout the cemetery.
