Winter Gear Hunt

Hey everyone,



I am getting to the point that I am tired of bugs (for example ticks and chiggers) during the warmer months of the year. I have to add that I am not a small fry and my body temperature gets to really uncomfortable levels in the heat. I would prefer to go camping in the cold. No bugs, less people, and those campfires that I love to build too big can get even bigger. The only thing that brings me back to reality is that my wife things exactly the opposite. What to do???



I have thought about purchasing a tent heater and during my research on Coleman and Mr. Heater brand portable heaters I found this important bullentin that I think everyone needs to know about before venturing out to buy that tent heater.

NEWS from CPSC
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Office of Information and Public Affairs
Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 13, 2002 Release # 02-179
CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772

CPSC Media Contact: Scott Wolfson, (301) 504-7051
CPSC Alerts Outdoor Enthusiasts:

New Portable Heaters Can Save Campers' Lives - ODS technology will help prevent CO poisoning deaths WASHINGTON, D.C. - This summer, as friends, families, and outdoor enthusiasts head out to campsites, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is announcing that there is a new generation of portable heaters with a safety device that can prevent the tragic loss of life due to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. The new heaters are equipped with an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) and are safer to use when camping. If oxygen levels start to fall, this sensing technology automatically shuts down the heater before it can produce serious levels of CO.

Unlike earlier portable heaters that do not have an ODS and are intended for outdoor use only, the new ODS-equipped heaters are specifically designed for indoor use. They can be safely used inside tents, cabins, and campers, but it is essential that users comply with the manufacturers' instructions to ensure that there is adequate ventilation. CPSC still recommends shutting off any camping heater or lantern before going to sleep.

CPSC estimates that in 1998, the latest year for which data are available, 18 people died due to carbon monoxide poisoning associated with using portable propane heaters indoors. Many of these deaths could have been prevented if the victims had been using the new heaters. These deaths often occurred when consumers brought radiant camping heaters that used 1 lb. propane tanks (but did not have an ODS) inside tents, campers, and other vehicles, thus exposing themselves to high levels of CO.

"CPSC wants all consumers to know that there is a new generation of portable heaters that are safer to use when camping," said Jacqueline Elder, Acting Director of CPSC's Office of Hazard Identification and Reduction. "Carbon monoxide poisoning is a silent killer that has taken the lives of many first-time and even experienced campers. The new, safer heaters prevent CO deaths by automatically shutting off the heater if oxygen levels start to fall."

CPSC worked closely with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Camping Equipment Subcommittee and the industry to develop and implement a new standard for 1 lb. portable heaters. The ODS technology on these heaters senses when the oxygen level in a tent or camper drops below 18 percent. If this occurs, the ODS closes the gas valve and shuts off the heater, preventing the production of dangerous levels of CO.

Consumers can find the safer heaters under various brands in major retail stores nationwide. Consumers need to ensure that they purchase portable heaters that meet the current standard. The new heaters can be identified by labels on the package that read in part, "Designed for Indoor Use," "Low Oxygen Automatic Shut-Off System," and "Oxygen Depletion Sensor" or by a star with the words "CSA 4.98."

CO is a silent killer, so CPSC has developed the following guidelines to prevent this colorless, odorless gas from poisoning you, your family or friends:

New ODS-equipped heaters are intended for indoor use.
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for ventilation.
Older generation heaters without an ODS are intended for outdoor use only and must never be used indoors.
Do not use portable heaters that fail to meet the new standard in enclosed areas such as tents, campers, and other vehicles. This is especially important at high altitudes, where the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning is increased.
Do not keep camping heaters and lanterns on while sleeping.
Do not attempt to use alternative sources of heat or power to warm a tent or camper. Charcoal grills, camping lanterns, and gas generators also can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. To heat an interior area while camping, only use a camping heater that meets the new safety standard.
Know the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning: headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, sleepiness, and confusion. Consumers who experience any of these symptoms should extinguish any possible source of CO and move to an area with fresh air.
Carbon monoxide reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen. Low blood oxygen levels can result in loss of consciousness and death. See a doctor if you or a member of your family develops cold or flu-like symptoms while camping. Carbon monoxide poisoning, which can easily be mistaken for a cold or flu, is often detected too late.
Be aware that alcohol consumption and drug use increase the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Be aware that carbon monoxide is especially toxic to people with heart disease or blood or circulatory system problems, such as anemia. Fetuses, infants and the elderly are also more susceptible to CO poisoning.
The surfaces of the heaters are extremely hot - always locate the heater away from traffic and combustible materials.

Consumers can also view a video clip about this campaign (transcript). This is in "streaming video"format.

To get more information about this alert you can view this link: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml02/02179.html

- Bentley VentureTree Team

Buffalo River Pictures

Hey everyone,

I just figured out what was going on with the camera. Here are some shots from our recent trip to the buffalo river. If you would like more information aboutthe trip see or blurb about Buffalo Canoeing.

The camp ground was really well kept and mowed.

Sorry VentureTree patrons, I am still have technical difficulties with my computer.

If you want to view more check our myspace page for more pictures of the Buffalo River Float.

- Bentley VentureTree Team

Buffalo Canoeing - Outfitter and Rental

Last weekend one of our staff here at VentureTree had his Bachelor Party on the Buffalo River. We had a great time floating and camping at Buffalo Canoeing. You can find a link to their website under our link and resources tab.



Jim and Jan Hobbs are the owners of Buffalo Canoeing. Buffalo Canoeing is located between Hohenwald, Tn and Waynesboro, Tn on TN-99, 2 hours south of Nashville, TN and 3 hours east of Memphis, TN. Our campground is located at the end of a hidden valley, bordered on one side by the beautiful Buffalo River, and along the other side flows a quiet stream, that children love to play in. Each campsite is on the river, in shade with tables, charcoal grills and firepits in each. We have facilities for groups from 2 to 200 people, along with a private campground for churches, Boy Scouts, and large family groups. We have a bathhouse with restrooms and hot showers, a small camp store with snacks, drinks, bottled water and ice. There is firewood for sale if you need any. Bring back as much as you take with you... cans, bottles, paper. But please don't litter our river, pack out what you pack in. We support and practice Leave No Trace wilderness ethics, and strongly urge you to also. We do not allow any children under the age of 5 in our canoes. Young children often panic when tipped over so please think of your child's safety whenever you bring young children. In keeping with our family atmosphere we ask that there is no alcohol on our main campground.

If you are interested and getting more information about the river check out http://www.buffalocanoeing.com/ and click on the link for river information.

If you are interested here are some details of our trip.

Thursday night we spent at campsite and Friday we headed out on a 7 mile float. Saturday we met at 10am to load up on the 18 mile overnight trip to leave out early Sunday morning. The VentureTree Team enjoyed the neatness of the campgrounds which were nicely mowed and well kept. The showers were great with no end to the hot water. The only thing that we had to work around was no drinking water. We did have to use our two blitz water cans and a mass quantity of nalgenes to add in this(averages out to be about 18 gallons). Jim mention to us about going to fill everything at the local Walmart were they sell water per gallon. This made it easy for us to fill up and stay fresh and hydrated in the heat.

Bentley VentureTree Team

Tread Lightly Carity Auction now on Ebay June 2-11.

The Tread Lightly! Charity Auction is Now Live
BID NOW TO SUPPORT A GREAT CAUSE!

Bid now to help Tread Lightly! work to keep the great outdoors beautiful, healthy and accessible. Below are just a few of the products that are available in the auction. Tread Lightly! would like to thank all of the outstanding companies that donated to our important cause.

A Few Featured Outdoor Gear Products
Gator™ CX Utility Vehicle with Grille Guard from John Deere
Cabela’s Deluxe XPG™ Tent
Maverick Backpack from Mountainsmith™
1 Day Bike Rental for 2 People at Poison Spider Bicycles in Moab
Restop Commode System for Solid Waste
Official Tread Lightly! Geocoin Made by aetoys.com
Viper Men’s Hiking Boots from Kamik
TOPO!® Explorer Deluxe Map Software from National Geographic Maps
"Grill on the Go" from Adjustagrill
Pro Guide Portable Fishing Kit
Fish Scale and Tool
Lowrance Portable Sonar Pack

A Few Featured 4x4 Products
48” Hi-Lift X-treme Jack from the Hi-Lift Jack Company
Pocket Style Fender Flares for Ford Super Duty Trucks from Bushwacker®
Horntones FX-550, the World’s First MP3 Enabled Vehicle Horn System from Horntones®
Roof Rack for the LR3 from Land Rover Flatirons
Certificate for a 4-hour 4x4 Driving Course from Sedona Jeep School
Gen-Right Jeep Full Stretch Corner Guard Set from JRT Offroad
Certificate for a set of 4 passenger or light-truck tires from Goodyear
Certificate Good for One Set of Quick Disconnects from TeraFlex
40-Channel Compact Mobile CB Radio from Quadratec®
Jeep 56-quart Cooler from JPCooler
"You May Need This Kit" 10 piece Off-Road Survival Kit from PU-Products
Hydra Water System from Rompalicious 4x4 Inc.
M8000 Winch from Warn Winch
ExtremeAire Compressor from Extreme Outback Products
Electric Winch SI 12000 from Mile Marker
SP140-T Welder from Lincoln Electric
Certificate for a Set of 4 Tires up to 37” from Interco Tire Corporation

A Few Featured Powersports Products
Leather AGVSPORT Riding Jacket from Suzuki
2 Sand Hauler Paddle Rear ATV Tires on Douglas .125 Aluminum Wheels from Rocky Mountain ATV/MC
TakT 981 Helmet from EVS Sports
Tread Lightly! Motorcycle Tie Downs from Cycle Express
Reima Mountain Shell Jacket from Sandance Sports
AFX Combat Off-Road Technical Backpack
Pocket Tire Plugger for Tubeless Tires from Stop & Go International
Case of Amsoil Synthetic Motorcycle Oil from BestWholesaleOil.com
32 oz bottle of Bike Magik™ Qwik Shine from BioKleen Products
Drink Holder Attachment for ATVs from All Rite Products
ODYSSEY™ ATV/PWC Battery from Enersys™
Set of 4 Dirt Devil II Tires from GBC Motorsports
Cobra ATV Windshield from PowerMadd
"His and Hers Kawasaki / Monster Energy package” consisting of jackets, shirts, hats, a backpack, and other accessories from Kawasaki.

Want more information about the auction? http://www.treadlightly.org/

Tread Lightly!
298 24th Street
Suite 325
Ogden, UT 84401

Bentley VentureTree Team

Tennessee State Parks Calender of Events for June and July

Hello Eveyone,

I just wanted to keep you updated on the events going on in Tennessee state parks. This year there has been a lot of budget cut backs for state employees and programs. Be sure to check these events to see how you can help support your local state park. We the consumer are the ones who make the decisions on whether a program stays or gets cut.


Cumberland Trail June 1 - June 14 - Build a Bridge! Phase 2
Bridge construction is on the Rock/Possum/Soddy segment of the Cumberland Trail and volunteers are needed. The Cumberland Trail Conference will provide food and lodging at the Lutheran Camp near Soddy Daisy. For more information, contact Tony Hook, 931-456-6259, Tony.Hook@frontiernet.net.

Fall Creek Falls June 1 - Labor Day Summer Season at Fall Creek Falls
Softball, nature hikes, cave trips, canoe floats, campfires, horseback riding, and bluegrass music are just some of the events that mark our summer season. Interpretive and recreational events. (423) 881-5708.

Fort Pillow June 1 - September 3 Weekend Programming
Park staff will be offering programs on history, nature, geography, etc. every weekend between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Contact park for weekly program schedules. Greg.S.Taylor@state.tn.us or Robby.Tidwell@state.tn.us or (731) 738-5581.

Cumberland Trail -June Sunday Nights 8:30 pm WDVX 89.9 fm
Join Bob Fulcher as he presents rare old-time bluegrass, gospel, rockabilly and more, 1926 to present day, from musicians who were born and raised along the Cumberland Trail. For more information contact Bobby.Fulcher@state.tn.us or 423-566-2229. web cast at http://www.wdvx.com/.

Davy Crockett - June Thursday Night Movies
Birthplace Every other Thursday night, through the summer months, family movies (G, PG & PG-13) will be shown on a big screen down at our Campground Pavilion. Movies will begin at 8:00 pm.
For movie schedules please contact Dawn.Coleman@state.tn.us or call (423) 257-2167.

Davy Crockett June Educational Programs
Birthplace Weekly programs will be given on the park during the summer months o nature, wildlife habitats, geology, paleontology, nature hikes, fishing on the Nolichuckey, traditional arts &crafts, campfire programs and more. Educational programs can be arranged for groups, home schooled organizations or individual families. Please contact the Visitor’s Center to schedule a date at (423) 257-2167 or contact Dawn.Coleman@state.tn.us .

Natchez Trace June Fridays Sunset Canoe Trips
Join our naturalist as we head out on the placid waters of Browns Lake for a Sunset Canoe Trip. Visitors will have the opportunity to see wildlife during one of the prime times for viewing. This trip is for both the experienced and beginners. Contact Alisha.Weber@state.tn.us or (731) 968-3742.

Cumberland Mtn. June - Sept. Seasonal Ranger Activities
Come one, come all for a summer filled with fun events. Nature walks, history talks, outdoor games, kids educational fun are all in store for the visitor of Cumberland Mountain. Schedules are printed weekly so please contact meredith.mullen@state.tn.us or call 931-484-6138 for up to date information.

Sycamore Shoals June-August History at Home
A creative mix of historical & natural programs presented throughout the year by our interpretive staff. Please call (423)543-5808 for weekly schedules, or check our website at http://www.sycamoreshoals.org/.

Sycamore Shoals Last Sunday of the month, June -October
Sunday Jams at the Carter Mansion
Our open pickin’ and sharin’ session is open to musicians of all levels, dancers, listeners, and toe tappers! Join us for this home-style gathering. For more information, visit www.sycamoreshoals.org or call (423) 543-5808.

Sycamore Shoals June - October Guest Naturalist Tour & Lecture Series
Throughout the year, area naturalists will be joining us at varied times to share in their areas of expertise. Guided tours, hikes, talks, and field trips will explore the park and other areas of natural interest. For more information, visit www.sycamoreshoals.org or call (423) 543-5808.

Sycamore Shoals June - December Traditional Arts Workshops
Join us for these great workshops that offer a unique opportunity to learn traditional and primitive art forms from expert instructors! Pre-registration will be required in addition to an instructor and materials fee. For more information, visit www.sycamoreshoals.org or call (423) 543-5808.

Warriors Path June - Mid-August Summer In The Park
Every Monday through Saturday, we offer free nature and recreation activities, including: guided hikes, creek walks, historical tours, crafts, games, junior rangers, campfire talks, and more. Free. Call for weekly schedule. Marty.Silver@state.tn.us or (423) 239-6786.

Natchez Trace June 5 Outdoor Classroom
This is a hands on learning program for children to explore nature and wildlife. This program is for 3rd grade through 8th. Children will also enjoy outdoor play such as bike hikes, archery, canoeing, fishing and more. Thursdays 10:00 - 2:00 for more information contact: Alisha.Weber@state.tn.us or (731) 968-3742.

Cumberland Mtn. June 6 Concert in the Park Series
Highland Rim Bluegrass will be performing outside at the amphitheater (rain = rec. lodge) for a lawn chair jam of sorts. Come ready to be entertained at 6:00 pm. The visitor would also be able to hear from the restaurant terrace overlooking Byrd Lake. meredith.mullen@state.tn.us or 931-484-6138.

Fall Creek Falls June 6 & 7 Astronomy Weekends
Join us at the Inn for discussions regarding constellations, lunar lore, and our brightest star, the Sun. Telescope viewing will also be offered, weather permitting. For more information, email Lloyd Watkins at watkinslk@comcast.net.

Bledsoe Creek June 7 Fishing Rodeo
Hosted by the Friends of Bledsoe Creek State Park, this event is in conjunction with TWRA free Fishing day. Registration starts at 8:00AM. The location will be at the public boat launch located within the park. The Fishing Rodeo is open to anyone under the age of 15. All participants must be accompanied by an adult. Prizes will be given away. The First 100 kids to register will receive a free T-Shirt. The event is free. For further information please contact Sharon Armistead at (615) 347-3639 or skarmistead@yahoo.com.

Fort Pillow June 7 National Trails Day Hike
Join Ft. Pillow staff for a five-mile hike along the yellow trail. We will travel along historic earthworks constructed by Confederate Soldiers in 1861 and learn about the battle that became known as the "Ft. Pillow Massacre."
Greg.S.Taylor@state.tn.us or Robby.Tidwell@state.tn.us or (731) 738-5581.

Natchez Trace June 7 Fishing Rodeo
During the free fishing day in the State of Tennessee we will be hosting a fishing rodeo for kids ages 0-16. TWRA will be there along with State Parks speaking with the children on such topics as boating safety, wildlife and the environment. Casting games will be held along with other fun activities. Meet us at Cub Lake at 7am for the kick off and begin fishing at 8am. Drawings will be held at 11:30 for prizes. For more information contact Alisha.Weber@state.tn.us

Sycamore Shoals June 7 & 8 Sycamore Shoals Native American Festival
10:00 am - 6:00 pm
A two-day celebration of our Native American Heritage. Come and discover the arts, music, dance, crafts, legends and stories of our Native Americans with emphasis on the Cherokee culture. Admissions Charge. For more information, visit www.sycamoreshoals.org or call (423) 543-5808.

Tims Ford June 7 Saturday Night Pickins
If you play an instrument or just enjoy listening to great music Tims Ford State Park is the place to be every other Saturday night. Please bring your instruments and join in. The music nights are held at the Recreation Building at Tims Ford State Park. 5 - 10 pm. For more information sharon.reagan@state.tn.us or (931) 962-1183.

Sycamore Shoals June 13 Colonial Kids
Spend a day at the Carter Mansion for a day of historical & natural activities for young people ages 9 - 13. Registration is limited to 10 each week. Small fee for each session. For more information, visit www.sycamoreshoals.org or call (423) 543-5808.

Cumberland Trail June 14 - Louie Bluie Music and Arts Festival - Cove Lake State Park
Events include arts and crafts, children's activities, story telling, food, string bands, and musicians featuring mountain jazz, old-time, gospel, bluegrass music and more. Admission is FREE. For more information, contact Peggy Mathews, 423-568-8189 or Bob Fulcher, 423-566-2229, Bobby.Fulcher@state.tn.us.

Davy Crockett June 14 Trees for Dad
Birthplace Join us at the Campground Pavilion at 11:00 am to plant native deciduous trees on the park in honor of our Fathers. Trees and tools will be provided. Dress in your best gardening clothes and plan for inclement weather. For more information contact Dawn.Coleman@state.tn.us or call (423) 257-2167.

Fort Pillow June 14 Youth Fishing Rodeo
Come enjoy a fun filled morning at Ft. Pillow State Historic Park’s annual fishing rodeo. All kids age 12 and under will have the chance to win prizes. Lunch will be provided. Greg.S.Taylor@state.tn.us or Robby.Tidwell@state.tn.us or (731) 738-5581.

Sycamore Shoals June 20 Colonial Kids
Spend a day at the Carter Mansion for a day of historical & natural activities for young people ages 9 - 13. Registration is limited to 10 each week. Small fee for each session. For more information, visit www.sycamoreshoals.org or call (423) 543-5808.

Tims Ford June 21 Saturday Night Pickins
If you play an instrument or just enjoy listening to great music Tims Ford State Park is the place to be every other Saturday night. Please bring your instruments and join in. The music nights are held at the Recreation Building at Tims Ford State Park. 5 - 10 pm. For more information sharon.reagan@state.tn.us or (931) 962-1183.

Davy Crockett June 23-27 Pioneer Camp Crockett
Birthplace Join us for a weeklong pioneer camp to help kids understand and experience their Appalachian frontier heritage of the early 1800’s. Kids will get hands on experience with archery, traditional crafts of the time period, tomahawk throwing, fishing, cooking, fire starting and more. Local artisans and re-enactors will be on hand to instruct. This program is sponsored through the "Educational Fund" of the Pioneer Friends Group of Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park. There is a fee for this event, please contact Dawn.Coleman@state.tn.us or call our Visitor’s Center at (423) 257-2167 for more information.

Sycamore Shoals June 27 Colonial Kids
Spend a day at the Carter Mansion for a day of historical & natural activities for young people ages 9 - 13. Registration is limited to 10 each week. Small fee for each session. For more information, visit www.sycamoreshoals.org or call (423) 543-5808.

Sycamore Shoals June 28 Mountain River Concert: Fire in the Kitchen
Our continuing series of performances highlight the talents of traditional musicians from our region. Join us at 7:00pm in the Sycamore Shoals Visitors Center on the last Saturday of every month except July, September, November, and December. Admissions Charge. For more information, visit www.sycamoreshoals.org or call (423) 543-5808.

Cumberland Trail July Sunday Nights 8:30 pm WDVX 89.9 fm
Join Bob Fulcher as he presents rare old-time bluegrass, gospel, rockabilly and more, 1926 to present day, from musicians who were born and raised along the Cumberland Trail. For more information contact Bobby.Fulcher@state.tn.us or 423-566-2229. web cast at http://www.wdvx.com/.

Davy Crockett July Thursday Night Movies
Birthplace Every other Thursday night, through the summer months, family movies (G, PG & PG-13) will be shown on a big screen down at our Campground Pavilion. Movies will begin at 8:00 pm.
For movie schedules please contact Dawn.Coleman@state.tn.us or call (423) 257-2167.

Davy Crockett July Educational Programs
Birthplace Weekly programs will be given on the park during the summer months o nature, wildlife habitats, geology, paleontology, nature hikes, fishing on the Nolichuckey, traditional arts &crafts, campfire programs and more. Educational programs can be arranged for groups, home schooled organizations or individual families. Please contact the Visitor’s Center to schedule a date at (423) 257-2167 or contact Dawn.Coleman@state.tn.us .

Fall Creek Falls July - Labor Day Summer Season at Fall Creek Falls
Softball, nature hikes, cave trips, canoe floats, campfires, horseback riding, and bluegrass music are just some of the events that mark our summer season. Interpretive and recreational events. (423) 881-5708.

Natchez Trace July Fridays Sunset Pontoon Trips
Join our naturalist as they head out on Pin Oak Lake for a sunset tour. Visitors can arrive early for supper at the Lodge. There is a 10-person limit for this trip. Sign up by calling the Pin Oak Lodge at (731) 968-8176. Alisha.Weber@state.tn.us.

Sycamore Shoals Month of July Fine Arts Show - Watauga Valley Art League
Opening Reception: Sunday, June 29 2 - 4 pm
Monday - Saturday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Sunday 1:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stop by the museum at Sycamore Shoals to view the beautiful artwork of the Watauga Valley Art League. Local artists display their talents during the entire month of July. For more information, visit www.sycamoreshoals.org or call (423) 543-5808.

Sycamore Shoals July-August History at Home
A creative mix of historical & natural programs presented throughout the year by our interpretive staff. Please call (423)543-5808 for weekly schedules, or check our website at http://www.sycamoreshoals.org/.

Sycamore Shoals July - October Guest Naturalist Tour & Lecture Series
Throughout the year, area naturalists will be joining us at varied times to share in their areas of expertise. Guided tours, hikes, talks, and field trips will explore the park and other areas of natural interest. For more information, visit www.sycamoreshoals.org or call (423) 543-5808.

Sycamore Shoals Last Sunday of the month, July -October
Sunday Jams at the Carter Mansion
Our open pickin’ and sharin’ session is open to musicians of all levels, dancers, listeners, and toe tappers! Join us for this home-style gathering. For more information, visit www.sycamoreshoals.org or call (423) 543-5808.

Sycamore Shoals July - December Traditional Arts Workshops
Join us for these great workshops that offer a unique opportunity to learn traditional and primitive art forms from expert instructors! Pre-registration will be required in addition to an instructor and materials fee. For more information, visit www.sycamoreshoals.org or call (423) 543-5808.

Davy Crockett July 4 & 5 Independence Day Celebration
Birthplace This event is held for all our campers staying here at Davy Crockett Birthplace State Park. A "Best Decorated Camper" contest will also be held with the chance of winning 3 FREE nights of camping at our park. There will be a bluegrass musical guest. For more information please contact Dawn.Coleman@state.tn.us or call (423) 257-2167.

Fall Creek Falls July 4 Fourth of July Celebration
Dress up your car, your bike, or yourself for our "traditional" parade, which ends in Campground A. After watermelon and cake, we will move to the field for events such as sack races, the egg toss, the water balloon toss, and other family favorites. (423) 881-5708.

Fall Creek Falls July 4 & 5 Astronomy Weekends
Join us at the Inn for discussions regarding constellations, lunar lore, and our brightest star, the Sun. Telescope viewing will also be offered, weather permitting. For more information, email Lloyd Watkins at watkinslk@comcast.net.

Fort Pillow July 4 - 6 Independence Day Celebration
Programs will be offered throughout the day to celebrate our country’s independence.
Greg.S.Taylor@state.tn.us or Robby.Tidwell@state.tn.us or (731) 738-5581.

Natchez Trace July 4-7 July 4th Weekend
Join us for a weekend of family fun, hayrides, pontoon trips, games and wildlife programs. Our naturalist will be offering various programs through the holiday weekend. Alisha.Weber@state.tn.us or (731) 968-3742.

Sycamore Shoals July 5 An 18th Century Independence Celebration
Celebrate the beginning of our nation’s independence! We will be hosting a gala that will include the arrival, by courier, of the Declaration of Independence, raising of the Continental Colors, refreshments, and contests! For more information, visit www.sycamoreshoals.org or call (423) 543-5808.

Sycamore Shoals July 5 & 6 Independence Weekend Garrison
A fine opportunity to visit with the Company of Overmountain Men and become a part of the excitement of 1776! The celebration will take place of Saturday; the garrison will continue until Sunday at 3 pm. For more information, visit www.sycamoreshoals.org or call (423) 543-5808.

Tims Ford July 5 Saturday Night Pickins
If you play an instrument or just enjoy listening to great music Tims Ford State Park is the place to be every other Saturday night. Please bring your instruments and join in. The music nights are held at the Recreation Building at Tims Ford State Park. 5 - 10 pm. For more information sharon.reagan@state.tn.us or (931) 962-1183.

Sycamore Shoals July 10 - 12 Liberty: The Saga of Sycamore Shoals
Don’t miss Tennessee’s longest running outdoor drama, depicting the 18th Century settlement of Northeast Tennessee. Presented each year by local performers in the shadow of Fort Watauga. The drama tells the story of the major events surrounding the Watauga Settlement on the grounds where they actually happened. Seating is available in the Fort Watauga Amphitheater and performances begin evenings at 7:30 pm. Sponsored by Friends of Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area. Admissions Charge. For more information, visit www.sycamoreshoals.org or call (423) 543-5808.

Sycamore Shoals July 17 - 19 Liberty: The Saga of Sycamore Shoals
Don’t miss Tennessee’s longest running outdoor drama, depicting the 18th Century settlement of Northeast Tennessee. Presented each year by local performers in the shadow of Fort Watauga. The drama tells the story of the major events surrounding the Watauga Settlement on the grounds where they actually happened. Seating is available in the Fort Watauga Amphitheater and performances begin evenings at 7:30 pm. Sponsored by Friends of Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area. Admissions Charge. For more information, visit www.sycamoreshoals.org or call (423) 543-5808.

Tims Ford July 19 Saturday Night Pickins
If you play an instrument or just enjoy listening to great music Tims Ford State Park is the place to be every other Saturday night. Please bring your instruments and join in. The music nights are held at the Recreation Building at Tims Ford State Park. 5 - 10 pm. For more information sharon.reagan@state.tn.us or (931) 962-1183.

Sycamore Shoals July 24 - 26 Liberty: The Saga of Sycamore Shoals
Don’t miss Tennessee’s longest running outdoor drama, depicting the 18th Century settlement of Northeast Tennessee. Presented each year by local performers in the shadow of Fort Watauga. The drama tells the story of the major events surrounding the Watauga Settlement on the grounds where they actually happened. Seating is available in the Fort Watauga Amphitheater and performances begin evenings at 7:30 pm. Sponsored by Friends of Sycamore Shoals State Historic Area. Admissions Charge. For more information, visit www.sycamoreshoals.org or call (423) 543-5808.

Warriors Path July 26 Folklife Festival - (TENTATIVE)
Come celebrate the folk traditions of East TN. Enjoy traditional life skills and crafts demonstrations, traditional games and contests, old-timey music, and more. And don’t miss the tales around the campfire! Free. 11 am - 10pm. Marty.Silver@stste.tn.us or (423) 239-6786.

-Bentley VentureTree Team