Nearby Fall Creek Falls State Park provides residents and visitors to the Sparta area an exhilarating look at the Cumberland Plateau. The park spans more than 20,000 acres and contains cascades, gorges, waterfalls and more for those interested in a memorable outdoor experience. Wildflowers and wildlife are in abundance for any nature observer. The park was voted the best state park in the Southeastern United States by readers of Southern Living magazine.
Fall Creek Falls State Park
2009 Village Camp Road
Pikeville , TN 37367-9803
(423) 881-5298
tennessee.gov/environment/parks/FallCreekFalls/
The Sparta Rock House is one of Tennessee's great historical sites. The tiny stone structure was originally built for toll collecting along a local area road. Its owner operated a popular stage coach inn not far from the Rock House. The building became important as Tennessee's transportation system grew because anyone travelling from Washington to Nashville would likely pass by the Rock House. This led to frequent visits by James Polk, Frank Clement, and Andrew Jackson.
Sparta Rock House
Highway 70
Sparta, TN 38583
(931) 836-3552
tennesseeanytime.org/homework/historicsites/sparrock.html
France Cemetery is the legendary burial ground of the Confederate ranger Champ Ferguson. While no one really knows if he is in fact buried here, the site remains a popular attraction for visitors interested in Civil War sites. France Cemetery also houses some local heroes, including Bluegrass legend Lester Flatts. Residents of the area often look for the graves of ancestors from within their families. The cemetery is an interesting piece of Sparta history and worth a visit.
France Cemetery
Monterey Highway/Route 84
Sparta, TN 38583
(931) 836-3552
spartatn.com
