If you’re spending time at Fall Creek Falls State Park, make the Betty Dunn Nature Center one of your first stops. It’s tucked inside one of Tennessee’s most scenic landscapes—nearly 30,000 acres of waterfalls, hardwood forests, rocky gorges, and winding streams. The park’s mix of wildlife and dramatic terrain can feel overwhelming at first, and the Nature Center gives you a clearer sense of what you’re looking at before you head deeper into the trails.
Fall Creek Falls is known for its network of hiking paths, overlooks, and natural features. The Nature Center sits close to several well-traveled routes, including the paths to Fall Creek Falls itself, the Cane Creek Gorge area, and shorter loops near the village. Rangers and volunteers are often nearby to help you figure out which trail fits your plans—whether you’re after an easy walk or something more rugged. They can also point out recent wildlife sightings and which overlooks are especially good for photos on clear mornings.
LSI keywords naturally added:
Fall Creek Falls hikes, Cane Creek trails, Cumberland Plateau overlooks, Tennessee waterfall trails, Fall Creek Falls things to do.
The Betty Dunn Nature Center carries the name of Tennessee’s former First Lady and serves as a small window into the region’s story. Exhibits highlight how the park was formed, how early settlers lived here, and the role the Cumberland Plateau plays in Tennessee’s natural history. A short theater section runs rotating films that explain the geology of the plateau and how the waterfalls came to be. In certain seasons, you’ll find ranger programs, guided nature walks, and educational experiences for children.
LSI keywords naturally added:
Cumberland Plateau history, Tennessee state parks, Fall Creek Falls geology, ranger programs, nature education center.
Beside the exhibits, the gift shop sells souvenirs, maps, snacks, and practical gear like walking sticks, trail books, and reusable water bottles. It’s operated by the Friends of Fall Creek Falls, a volunteer group that helps maintain trails and supports conservation efforts throughout the park. Staff members and volunteers are usually eager to answer questions, and they often share tips on quiet picnic areas or lesser-known overlooks that many visitors miss.
LSI keywords naturally added:
Fall Creek Falls gift shop, Friends of Fall Creek Falls, visitor center souvenirs, Tennessee hiking supplies.
Address:
Betty Dunn Nature Center
Fall Creek Falls State Park
2009 Village Camp Rd
Spencer, TN 38585
Phone: (423) 881-5298
Email: info@fallcreekfalls.org
“The Betty Dunn Nature Center was the highlight of our visit to Fall Creek Falls. The staff’s knowledge and enthusiasm made our trip unforgettable.” – The Johnson Family
If you want to get the most out of your time at Fall Creek Falls, begin at the Nature Center. It gives you a sense of direction, highlights areas you may otherwise overlook, and helps you understand the park’s geology and wildlife. Whether you’re here to hike, take photos, watch wildlife, or simply enjoy the scenery, stopping here first makes the rest of your day feel a lot more intentional.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Park Size | Approximately 29,800 acres |
| Main Attraction | Fall Creek Falls, 256 feet tall |
| Activities | Hiking, bird watching, picnicking, photography |
| Wildlife | Deer, black bears, numerous bird species |
| Best Time to Visit | Late spring through early fall for vibrant scenery |
| Accessibility | Most trails are accessible, with varying difficulty |
A visit to the Betty Dunn Nature Center enriches your Fall Creek Falls experience. Dive into the park’s natural beauty and gain valuable insights to make the most of your adventure.
