Rocky Fork State Park breaks ground on $6.7M renovation plan

Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park officially broke ground Monday on a new visitor center, set to transform amenities and experiences for park visitors.Tennessee State Parks and Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation regional representatives organized the ceremony, inviting local officials and Friends members. The project was approved by the State Building Commission last June for $6.7 million and will include a 5,000-square-foot visitor center, maintenance building, picnic shelter, improved road access, a new driveway and a pedestrian bridge."After celebrating Rocky Fork State Park's 10th Anniversary in August, it is exciting to announce that ground has been broken on the construction of a Visitor Center for the park," said Carrie Hovey, president of the Friends of Rocky Fork State Park in a statement.She noted the design, created by Reedy & Sykes Architecture & Design Firm, will blend seamlessly with the park's natural landscape.Hovey said the visitor center will feature interpretive exhibits, a gift shop, offices and a conference space."As well as real, honest-to-goodness restrooms; not port-a-johns," Hovey added.Expanded parking, a bridge over Rocky Fork Creek, and a picnic pavilion are among the other upgrades aimed at enhancing the visitor experience, Hovey said."The Friends of Rocky Fork State Park look forward to supporting the park with additional amenities and working with the park manager and staff to prioritize and fund their wish list of extras," Hovey said. "Completion of the visitor center is expected by the end of 2026."Hovey said members of the public will have two upcoming opportunities to view the visitor center plans. On Tuesday, Nov. 18, there will be a public comment session for the 10-year Rocky Fork Strategic Plan at Erwin Town Hall. On Monday, Dec. 8, the annual Friends of Rocky Fork State Park Membership Meeting and Elections will feature presentations by park staff and the Visitor Center's architect.For more information, visit https://tnstateparks.com/parks/rocky-fork.