Why We Love It
Open a gateway to the stars at this 3500-acre nature preserve in Kingsport, Tenn. Bays Mountain Park has two observatories with several telescopes for day and night watching free for all guests. StarWatch and SunWatch are run by the Bays Mountain Astronomy Club and park staff at various times throughout the year, but if you miss out on either, the Planetarium Theater offers opportunities to view the stars on the big screen.
What To Expect
Bays Mountain gives visitors the chance to experience all kinds of outdoor activities. Hiking, mountain biking, nature programs and fishing are all available for individuals while challenging adventure courses and zip line tours are offered for groups. The zip lining is offered to individuals as well, but only at select times. Plan out the day at this park so there is time for everything.
Events
During June, July and August, barge rides and the park's wolf program are offered with nature programs and the planetarium shows. The barge rides take visitors across the park's reservoir on a pontoon boat. Visitors can view and learn about local aquatic life such as water lilies, ducks, geese, turtles and great blue heron plus the occasional black bear and deer.