Cypress Grove Nature Park

A Natural Treasure

Cypress Grove Nature Park protects 165 acres of bottomland hardwood forest and cypress-tupelo swamp within Jackson city limits. The park provides rare access to an ecosystem that once dominated West Tennessee river valleys.

Massive bald cypress trees, some hundreds of years old, rise from dark water creating an otherworldly landscape. Spanish moss drapes from branches while turtles sun on logs and herons hunt in shallow pools.

Why Visit?

• Peaceful natural environment minutes from downtown
• Excellent bird watching opportunities
• Easy, accessible boardwalk trails
• Photography opportunities year-round
• Educational nature programs
• Free admission

Main Boardwalk Loop

Distance: 0.8 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Elevated boardwalk passes through the heart of the cypress swamp. Wheelchair accessible. Multiple observation areas.

Upland Trail

Distance: 0.5 miles

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Natural surface trail through bottomland hardwood forest. Connects to boardwalk system.

Observation Decks

Count: Multiple locations

Features: Benches, viewing areas

Perfect spots to pause, observe wildlife, and take photos of the swamp landscape.

Birds

Over 140 bird species recorded including great blue herons, wood ducks, prothonotary warblers, barred owls, and pileated woodpeckers. Spring and fall migrations bring additional species.

Mammals

White-tailed deer, raccoons, opossums, beavers, and river otters inhabit the park. Early morning and evening offer best viewing opportunities.

Reptiles & Amphibians

Turtles bask on logs, frogs chorus from the water, and non-venomous water snakes hunt fish. Harmless to observers who stay on trails.

Trees & Plants

Bald cypress with distinctive "knees," water tupelo, overcup oak, and swamp chestnut oak dominate. Understory includes buttonbush, swamp rose, and various ferns.

Seasonal Highlights

Spring: Wildflowers, migratory birds, cypress trees leaf out

Summer: Lush green canopy, active wildlife

Fall: Stunning cypress foliage turns russet and gold

Winter: Bare cypress reveals swamp structure, easier wildlife spotting

Hours

Open daily dawn to dusk. Gates close at dusk. No overnight camping.

Admission

FREE for all visitors. Donations accepted to support park maintenance and programs.

Accessibility

Main boardwalk is wheelchair accessible. Paved parking lot. Accessible restrooms at trailhead.

What to Bring

Binoculars, camera, water, insect repellent (spring/summer), comfortable shoes.

Park Rules

Stay on trails. No feeding wildlife. Pack out all trash. Pets on leash. No bicycles on boardwalk.

Location

711 Lakeview Drive, Jackson, TN. Easy access from downtown Jackson.

Cypress Grove offers exceptional photography opportunities year-round. The unique swamp environment creates atmospheric images unlike typical forest scenes.

Best Lighting

• Early morning for mist over water
• Late afternoon for golden light through trees
• Overcast days for even lighting and reflections
• After rain for enhanced colors and textures

Subject Ideas

• Cypress "knees" protruding from water
• Wildlife - birds, turtles, deer
• Reflections in still water
• Fall foliage on cypress trees
• Boardwalk perspectives
• Macro shots of bark textures and plants

Tip: Bring a polarizing filter to reduce water glare and enhance sky/foliage colors.