The park features a specialized mountain biking trail system that is nationally recognized for its design and technical difficulty.
Cherokee Lake, which borders the park, is a Tennessee Valley Authority reservoir created by the damming of the Holston River.
The park's geology includes karst features such as limestone sinkholes, which are common in this region of East Tennessee.
The area was a historically significant site for Cherokee people before European settlement.
Panther Creek State Park spans 1,435 acres along the shoreline of Cherokee Lake in Morristown, Tennessee. The park features over 30 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy lakeside paths to challenging forested inclines. Equestrian enthusiasts utilize 17 miles of dedicated bridle trails that traverse diverse terrain. The park provides boat launch facilities and expansive fishing access along the reservoir. Visitors can stay overnight at 50 campsites equipped with water and electrical hookups. Recreational amenities include a swimming pool, multiple picnic pavilions, and a mountain bike course. The park terrain consists of rolling hills, sinkholes, and mixed hardwood forests characteristic of the Ridge and Valley physiographic province. It serves as a regional hub for organized sporting events, including disc golf tournaments.
The elevated lookout points along the lakeside trails offering views of Cherokee Lake and the Great Smoky Mountains.
Check the official website for current trail closure notifications before arriving, as some routes are sensitive to wet weather.
Bring a mountain bike if you are an experienced rider, as the park features a dedicated, well-maintained mountain bike trail system.
Pack insect repellent during the summer months, particularly when visiting the shaded forest trails near the water.
Attempting to access unmarked or closed trails, which can be dangerous due to karst sinkholes and uneven terrain.
The swimming pool is seasonal and typically operates from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Stay on marked trails to protect local flora and prevent erosion; leashed pets are permitted in designated areas.
