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Reelfoot Lake State Park
One of the miracles of Tennessee, Reelfoot Lake was born during the winter of 1811- 1812, when the San Madrid fault line produced four powerful earthquakes. Folklore says that the earthquakes were so intense that the Mississippi River flowed backwards for 14 hours. Geologists today say that was a visual illusion. A Native American story about its origins is also part of the folklore—the Great Spirit, angry at the Chickasaw Chief Reelfoot for stealing a Choctaw princess, stomped hard on the ground, causing the Mississippi to overflow, destroy the Chief’s village, and fill the massive footprint, which became Reelfoot Lake.
Surrounded with majestic, bald cypress trees and their projecting cypress knees, roots that stick up from the water, the lake has a visible mystical feel and look about it. Today, the lake covers 15,500 acres and has an average depth of 5.5 feet.
Reelfoot serves as a sanctuary for American Bald Eagles who fish the lakes and build their aeries in the trees. Wading birds, wild ducks and geese, as well as myriads of other fowl make Reelfoot Lake their home or at least a seasonal destination.
Around the lake in the Tennessee towns of Tiptonville, Hornbeak, and Samburg, hunters and fishers can rent boats or use their own in pursuit of waterfowl or aquatic game. While swimming is not permitted in the lake, there are private motels and lodges with hot tubs and swimming pools. Camping/RV spots are available too.
As part of the Tennessee State Parks system, Reelfoot offers free access and free activities as well. The State Park also includes cabins, camping, and walking trails.
Sunrises and sunsets over Reelfoot Lake make the trip a must-do/must-see for everyone. For cabin reservations at the State Park, call 888-867-2757. For more information about Reelfoot, call the Visitors Center at 731-253-9652.
PHOTOS/WILLIAM NORTHCUTT JOHN CLOAR
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