Steele Creek Park
2,696 acres of wilderness in the heart of Bristol
Bristol, Tennessee
One of the largest municipal parks in Tennessee, Steele Creek Park offers 2,696 acres of forested ridges, hiking trails, and lake recreation within the Bristol city limits. The park features a nature center with live animal exhibits, a lake for fishing and paddleboating, an 18-hole disc golf course, playgrounds, and over 20 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. For families, the park train ride has been a beloved tradition for generations. Steele Creek proves you don't have to choose between culture and nature in Sullivan County.
Visit Info
park: Dawn to dusk daily
nature-center: Tue-Sat 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Park grounds open daily dawn to dusk. Nature center has separate hours. Some amenities seasonal.
Parking: Multiple free parking areas throughout the park. Main lot near nature center and lake.
Visitor Tips
- ›The lakeside trail is perfect for families with younger kids
- ›Pack a picnic — the sheltered areas near the lake are gorgeous
- ›The nature center is a great rainy-day backup plan
- ›Mountain bikers love the ridge trails — bring your bike
- ›The train ride is a must for kids under 10
Featured in Tours
Accessibility: Nature center and playground areas are ADA accessible. Trail accessibility varies — lakeside paths are relatively flat; ridge trails are more challenging.
Last verified: 2026-02-25