Lakeshore Park

Lakeshore Park is a 185-acre public park located along the Tennessee River in Knoxville, Tennessee. It is one of the city's most visited parks, attracting approximately 1 million visitors annually. The park offers stunning views of the Tennessee River and the Great Smoky Mountains, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Originally, the land was used by Cherokee Indian tribes for hunting, fishing, and gathering. In 1886, it became the site of the East Tennessee Hospital for the Insane, which operated for 127 years until its closure in 2013. In 1995, portions of the property began to be developed as a public park, leading to its current status as a recreational space.

Lakeshore Park features a diverse array of natural elements, including over 1,000 trees representing more than 95 labeled species. Some of these trees are well over 100 years old, contributing to the park's rich botanical landscape. The park also includes a woodland marsh, offering visitors a unique ecosystem to explore.

The park's topography provides various recreational opportunities. It includes several miles of walking and running trails, sports fields, and open green spaces. The elevated areas of the park offer clear views of the Tennessee River and the Smoky Mountains, enhancing the visitor experience.

Lakeshore Park is managed by the Lakeshore Park Conservancy, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and maintaining the park for public use. The conservancy also oversees ongoing development and improvements to the park, supported by private donations.