Knoxville, Tennessee, blends the charm of Southern living with the breathtaking beauty of the Appalachian landscape. With rolling hills, riverside views, and miles of wooded trails, it's no surprise that Knoxville is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Whether you're looking to enjoy a weekend picnic, hike a new trail, play with your kids, or simply breathe in fresh mountain air, the city’s extensive park system offers something for everyone.
If you’re new to Knoxville or considering a move here, getting to know the parks is a great way to connect with the community and discover what makes the city so livable. Here are some of the top parks in Knoxville you’ll want to explore.
Ijams Nature Center
One of Knoxville’s most iconic green spaces, Ijams Nature Center is a 315-acre urban wilderness area just five miles from downtown. It’s a true outdoor playground with something for every age and interest. Visitors can hike over 12 miles of trails, paddle on Mead’s Quarry Lake, climb the rock formations, or explore the boardwalks along the Tennessee River.
Ijams is also a hub for environmental education and offers frequent events, nature programs, and workshops. Whether you’re looking for a quiet morning walk or an adrenaline-filled day of mountain biking and kayaking, Ijams delivers.
Lakeshore Park
Stretching along the Tennessee River with stunning views of the Smoky Mountains, Lakeshore Park is a favorite among locals for its wide-open spaces, scenic walking trails, and family-friendly amenities. The park features more than 4 miles of paved trails, baseball and softball fields, playgrounds, and beautiful gardens.
The highlight for many visitors is the riverfront trail, which provides sweeping views of the water and mountains in the distance. It’s also a popular spot for community events, fitness classes, and casual weekend outings. This is the kind of park where you’ll see everything from kids flying kites to seniors taking their morning stroll.
Victor Ashe Park
Located in northwest Knoxville, Victor Ashe Park is a spacious 120-acre green space that offers a wide variety of recreational activities. It’s an ideal destination for families, dog owners, and sports enthusiasts. The park includes soccer fields, a playground, a large dog park, walking trails, and even a fishing pond.
Its paved greenway is especially popular for jogging, biking, and stroller walks, and the open fields are perfect for picnics or a game of frisbee. It’s one of the best places in Knoxville to enjoy outdoor time with kids and pets.
World’s Fair Park
Situated in the heart of downtown Knoxville, World’s Fair Park is both a cultural landmark and a scenic escape from city life. Originally developed for the 1982 World’s Fair, the park features expansive lawns, fountains, a performance lawn, and the recognizable Sunsphere, which provides panoramic views of the city.
It’s a go-to spot for festivals, concerts, and community gatherings, as well as casual strolls and photo ops. With its convenient location and open layout, World’s Fair Park bridges the gap between Knoxville’s urban attractions and its love for the outdoors.
Concord Park
Located in West Knoxville near Farragut, Concord Park offers a peaceful lakeside experience. This large park complex includes multiple areas with features like a dog park, a skatepark, tennis courts, and a swimming area on Fort Loudoun Lake. It’s also home to one of the best public boat ramps in the area, making it a top choice for boating and fishing enthusiasts.
Concord Park also includes scenic trails that loop through wooded areas and along the lake, making it a popular spot for runners, cyclists, and nature photographers. Whether you want to paddle on the lake or grill out with friends, this park is a hidden gem worth visiting.
Seven Islands State Birding Park
For those who love wildlife and birdwatching, Seven Islands State Birding Park is a unique and peaceful destination just east of Knoxville in Kodak. With over 400 acres of protected land and more than 8 miles of trails, the park is a sanctuary for birds, butterflies, and native plants.
The meadows, wetlands, and riverfront habitats offer a serene place to reconnect with nature. They’re ideal for birders, hikers, photographers, and families looking for a quiet and educational day outdoors.
Tommy Schumpert Park
Located in northeast Knoxville, Tommy Schumpert Park offers an outstanding array of amenities, including sports fields, paved greenways, two off-leash dog parks, and a scenic pond for fishing. This park is a community favorite for active residents who enjoy playing soccer, flying RC planes, or walking their dogs.
The park has both wooded and open spaces, providing options for every kind of visitor. Whether you’re bringing the kids to the playground or heading out on a jog, Tommy Schumpert Park has something to offer.
Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum
Just a short drive from downtown, this hidden treasure is open to the public and free to visit. The Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum covers 47 acres of historic grounds, walking trails, garden rooms, stone walls, and blooming landscapes. It’s an enchanting space perfect for leisurely walks, quiet contemplation, and seasonal photo shoots.
Events and workshops hosted here include garden tours, children’s programs, and plant sales, making it a cultural and botanical centerpiece for nature lovers in the community.
Holston River Park
Nestled along the Holston River in East Knoxville, this park is a quiet, riverside retreat known for its fishing spots, greenway trails, and peaceful scenery. It features a boat launch, a loop trail that winds through wooded areas, and large open lawns for gatherings.
This lesser-known park offers a more relaxed environment than some of the city’s larger parks, making it a great place to read a book by the water or cast a fishing line at sunset.
Why Knoxville’s Parks Matter
One of the defining qualities of Knoxville is its deep commitment to outdoor living. With over 100 parks and green spaces in and around the city, there’s no shortage of opportunities to enjoy fresh air, connect with nature, and live a healthier lifestyle. Whether you’re a young professional, a retiree, or part of a growing family, Knoxville’s park system enhances quality of life and builds a stronger sense of community.
If you're considering a move to Knoxville, visiting the local parks is a great way to get to know the area's personality. Every trail, riverbank, and playground tells a story—and those stories can help you envision your own life in East Tennessee.
Find Your Perfect Knoxville Home with Bessie Whiteside
If the parks of Knoxville have you falling in love with the area, the next step is finding the perfect home nearby. Local real estate expert Bessie Whiteside knows every corner of the city and can help you discover not only the right house but also the right neighborhood that fits your outdoor lifestyle.
From walkable communities near the Urban Wilderness to lakefront properties by Concord Park, Bessie can guide you through the entire buying process with personalized support, local insight, and exceptional service.
Start your Knoxville home search today and let Bessie Whiteside help you find a home you’ll love as much as Knoxville’s great outdoors.
