Chickamauga Battlefield
A vast, preserved Civil War battlefield offering historical immersion, scenic trails, and intriguing legends.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Chickamauga Battlefield
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, preserved Civil War battlefield offering historical immersion, scenic trails, and intriguing legends.
"A wonderful place to see and experience, rich in history and beautiful to behold."
🚗 Download the NPS App
Use the app or call tour stop numbers for info, as GPS can be unreliable.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking and exploring monuments means comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Wilder Brigade Monument
Near Visitor Center
Climb this iconic tower for panoramic battlefield views and a unique perspective on Civil War history.
Kelly House
Along Driving Tour
A preserved 19th-century home offering a glimpse into civilian life during and after the Civil War.
Historic War Log
Various locations
Discover trees with cannonballs lodged in them, remnants of the intense fighting from over a century ago.
Visitor Center Exhibits
Main Visitor Center
Explore an introductory film and a fascinating collection of historic firearms that set the stage for the battle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Chickamauga
Embrace the History and Nature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Download the NPS App
Use the app or call tour stop numbers for info, as GPS can be unreliable.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking and exploring monuments means comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
The battlefield is vast; dedicate at least 2-4 hours to truly explore.
🚲 Bike or Hike Trails
Enjoy the scenic paths for a different perspective on the battlefield.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Download the NPS App
Use the app or call tour stop numbers for info, as GPS can be unreliable.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking and exploring monuments means comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
The battlefield is vast; dedicate at least 2-4 hours to truly explore.
🚲 Bike or Hike Trails
Enjoy the scenic paths for a different perspective on the battlefield.
👻 Beware of Old Green Eyes
Legend says a phantom with glowing eyes haunts these grounds. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Chickamauga Battlefield for its historical significance, well-preserved grounds, and informative exhibits. Many appreciate the opportunity to explore the vast battlefield through driving tours, walking, and biking. The park's peaceful atmosphere and the detailed monuments contribute to a memorable and educational experience.
"Wonderful historical place that was very interesting to visit and beautiful to see. The park was clean, peaceful and very informative. We would love to go back in the fall as I can imagine. It would be beautiful then as well. Just a wonderful place to see and experience. Bathrooms areaccessible and across from parking."
Gay Herron
"Great introductory movie and historic gun collection at the visitor center. We had difficulty with the NPS app and the website working for the driving tour. However, calling the phone number provided and giving your tour stop number worked great! Well maintained park. There are bike paths here."
Stacy Fissel
"This was a very interesting and informative place to visit. There was a lot to see in the visitor center, then you can take the driving tour. We probably spent about 2 hours there overall. But you could easily spend all day if you wanted to. There are tons of monuments through the park/tour. There are places to walk, hike, and ride bikes also. We took the driving tour on our own. But at certain times/days, you can take a ranger-guided tour in a caravan driving tour. At each stop , there is a QR code you can scan that gives you info about that location . We really enjoyed it."
Adrianna Morton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chickamauga Battlefield is located south of Chattanooga, Tennessee, straddling the Georgia-Tennessee border. It's easily accessible by car, with clear signage from major highways. Many visitors combine a trip here with other Chattanooga attractions.
Yes, ample parking is available at the Visitor Center and at various stops along the driving tour. Restrooms are conveniently located across from parking areas.
Public transportation options are limited for reaching the battlefield directly. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services if you are staying in nearby Chattanooga.
The park roads are generally well-maintained and can accommodate RVs. However, be mindful of narrower sections and parking availability at certain stops.
The most popular way to explore is via the self-guided driving tour, which covers key historical points. You can also hike or bike many of the trails.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Chickamauga Battlefield is part of the National Park Service and generally has no entrance fee for general access. However, specific programs or tours might have associated costs.
The park grounds are typically open from dawn to dusk. The Visitor Center has more specific hours, usually from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily, but it's always best to check the official NPS website for the most current information.
For general park access, no advance booking is required. If you plan to join a ranger-guided tour, it's advisable to check the schedule and inquire about any reservation needs.
Yes, if you have an America the Beautiful Pass or other relevant National Park passes, they may cover any potential fees for special programs or tours.
The Visitor Center offers an introductory film and exhibits. The driving tour, with its numbered stops and QR codes, provides detailed historical context for each location.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Wilder Brigade Monument for its views,
and the numerous soldier monuments scattered throughout the park. The Visitor Center's exhibits are also highly recommended.
Absolutely! The battlefield features miles of trails suitable for hiking and biking, offering a peaceful way to experience the grounds. Some trails are paved, while others are more natural.
Yes, Chickamauga Battlefield is known for its ghost stories, particularly the legend of 'Old Green Eyes,' a phantom said to haunt the area.+2 Many visitors find the atmosphere quite eerie.
You'll find a vast array of monuments dedicated to different regiments and individuals from both the Union and Confederate armies. These are a significant part of the battlefield's historical preservation.
Yes, children can enjoy the open spaces for running, the historical context, and climbing the Wilder Brigade Monument. The Visitor Center's exhibits can also be engaging.
📸 📸 Photography
The Wilder Brigade Monument offers stunning panoramic shots. The historic Kelly House, especially with fall colors, is picturesque. Look for unique trees with embedded cannonballs
Early morning or late afternoon light provides the most dramatic and flattering illumination for landscape and monument photography. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the official NPS regulations for Chickamauga Battlefield before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive battlefield and monuments. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on distant monuments or wildlife. A tripod can help with low-light conditions.
Focus on the intricate details of the monuments, the weathered textures of historic buildings like the Kelly House, and the natural beauty of the landscape, especially during autumn.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The driving tour, with its numbered stops and QR codes, makes it easy to follow along and learn about key events.Kids will likely enjoy climbing the Wilder Brigade Monument for a unique view
and exploring the open fields. The legend of 'Old Green Eyes' can also add an element of spooky fun to the visit.🚶 History Buffs
Take advantage of the ranger-guided tours if available, or utilize the self-guided driving tour with its informative stops. The Visitor Center's exhibits and film offer crucial context. Consider dedicating a full day to truly absorb the historical significance of this vast and well-preserved site.
🚴 Outdoor Enthusiasts
Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous bike ride, the trails provide an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of the area. Pack your gear and enjoy the fresh air while exploring this historically significant location.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Old Green Eyes
Many visitors report feeling an eerie presence or experiencing unexplained phenomena while exploring the park, especially after dark. While the existence of Old Green Eyes remains in the realm of folklore, the stories add a layer of mystery and intrigue to the already somber historical site. It's a popular topic for ghost hunters and those interested in the paranormal aspects of historical locations.
Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the tales of Old Green Eyes contribute to the unique atmosphere of Chickamauga Battlefield. It's a reminder that history is not just about facts and dates, but also about the stories and legends that continue to live on in the places where significant events occurred.
Exploring the Monuments
Many of these monuments are works of art, reflecting the styles and sentiments of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The 15th Wisconsin monument, for instance, honors the 'Norway boys' who served under Colonel Heg.
Exploring these memorials offers a tangible connection to the past and a chance to reflect on the sacrifices made. The sheer number and variety of monuments underscore the scale and significance of the battle fought here.Take your time to read the inscriptions and understand the historical context of each monument. Some are dedicated to specific units, while others commemorate individual acts of bravery or sacrifice. The park's preservation efforts ensure that these historical markers remain in good condition, allowing future generations to learn from them.
Nature and Recreation
Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking along numerous paths that wind through the battlefield. These trails offer a peaceful way to experience the grounds, allowing for quiet contemplation amidst the historical markers and natural beauty. The park is particularly stunning in the fall, with vibrant foliage adding to its picturesque charm.
Whether you're a history enthusiast or an outdoor adventurer, Chickamauga Battlefield provides a unique dual experience. You can immerse yourself in the events of the Civil War while also enjoying the simple pleasures of a walk or bike ride through a well-preserved natural setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit