Located off U.S. Hwy. 70, the park is named for Military Governor Andrew Johnson. This 600-acre park on the eastern side of Kentucky Lake overlooks the site of the Battle of Johnsonville. Interpretive tours are available.

Fishing

Visitors can enjoy fishing from the banks of the Tennessee River. Catches may include catfish, bream, crappie and bass. A valid Tennessee fishing license is required.

Tennessee Fishing Regulations (exit TDEC)
Tennessee State Parks fishing policies

Hiking Trails

Currently, Johnsonville’s Hiking Trails are being redesigned. A new historic trail system will be open to the public on November 1, 2012.

Historic Park

Johnsonville State Historic Park is named for Tennessean Andrew Johnson, Union Military Governor during the Civil War and Seventeenth President of the United States. This 2000-acre park located in Humphreys County, commemorates the site of the Battle of Johnsonville and the historic town site that existed from 1864-1944 prior to the formation of Kentucky Lake.

At Johnsonville on November 4, 1864, Confederate Major General Nathan Bedford Forrest's cavalry took up artillery positions on the western bank of the Tennessee River. Forrest’s confederates sank four Federal gunboats and transports and finished out the day by destroying the Union supply depot at Johnsonville. This Confederate victory, however, was too late. As a result, Union General William T. Sherman managed to cut his own supply lines (including Johnsonville) and instead commence living “off the land” as his troops left Atlanta and embarked on his famous march through Georgia.

Two large forts, the Upper and lower Redoubts, located in the park are open to visitors. Additionally, Original Union breastworks (rifle pits) are beautifully preserved throughout the park in various areas. Visitors may contact the park’s Welcome Center to schedule Interpretive tours by calling (931) 535-2789.

Picnic Facilities

The park has one small picnic area with 12 picnic tables and grills. The picnic tables are first come first serve.

Programs

Johnsonville’s brand new state-of-the art Welcome Center, officially opened May 11th, 2012, offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the Civil War and the 1864 Battle of Johnsonville. Additionally, visitors can learn about the 80 year history of “old Johnsonville,” the town that grew up around the Union supply depot in 1864 and flooded by the waters of Kentucky Lake in the spring of 1944.

Visitors can view free exhibits and enjoy a 25 minute film about the Battle of Johnsonville. A small gift shop is available which has many books and other gifts for sale.

Each year on the anniversary of the Battle of Johnsonville, November 4th and 5th, a walking tour is provided free to the public by the park historian. The 1.5 hour tour includes an interpretive talk about the Battle of Johnsonville and leads visitors to various areas pertaining to the historic 1864 Civil War battle. Tours gather at 1:00 p.m. in the picnic area parking lot on November 4th and 5th. Comfortable walking shoes, a jacket, and water bottle is recommended. Due to the popularity of this event, it is recommended to arrive early in order to view the museum exhibits and film prior to the walking tour.

Additional living history events and hikes take place throughout the year. Please refer to the park’s schedule of events on the website to find out more information.

Tour Buses

Tour buses are welcome. Please call ahead (931) 535-2789 to schedule a ranger led bus tour of historic Johnsonville.