Located on the Tennessee River where Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi meet, sits the rural southern paradise of Hardin County, Tennessee. There’s plenty to see and do, exploring Hardin County’s endless adventure of fishing, boating, hiking, water-loving, nature-walking, catfish-dining options!
Sitting idyllically on the banks of the Tennessee, is the town of Savannah, boasting as the catfish capital of the world. This county seat is home to an abundance of family friendly parks, historic homes, and the leading national manufacturer of hushpuppies and southern side dishes. Yum! Savannah Classics, located in Savannah, Tennessee, takes pride in providing you with wholesome, easy-to-prepare hushpuppies and side dishes from authentic Southern recipes. Keep your eyes peeled for their signature Savannah Classics label next time you hit the frozen food isle!
Rich in history and in flavor, Hardin County is the site of the pivotal April 1862 Civil War Battle of Shiloh. Shiloh National Military Park has preserved the now monument-dotted battlefield much as it was then, and frequently hosts special “living history” events, hikes and bikes trails, as well as outdoor concerts. Visitors are invited to walk, bike or drive touring the battle sites, discovering the remains of the 800-year-old Indian mounds, and even catching a glimpse of deer, turkey, and the park’s own nesting eagles.
Zip over to nearby Hagy’s Catfish Hotel Restaurant, the #1 hot spot for catfish and hushpuppies… many locals and visitors have enjoyed this riverfront restaurant for over 80 years! That basket of hushpuppies is the perfect addition to any meal especially paired with the fish, for snacking, dipping, or as a side.
On the shore of Pickwick Lake is Pickwick Landing State Resort Park, with its recently $11 million renovated lodge, convention center, restaurant, marina, golf course, campground, cabins, aviaries, swim beaches, paddling rentals, and its own dog park. Pickwick welcomes year-round visitors with an assortment of locally owned one-of-a-kind restaurants. Boaters coming in off the water can easily follow the catfish (restaurant) trail, enjoy pizza, burgers, or some favorable BBQ.
For those that are visiting for fishing opportunities, get out on the lake, the river below the dam, tucked away in a secluded cove, or from the bank. Fishing is big business in the area! Hardin County Convention and Visitors Bureau has rolled out the red carpet in recruiting fishing tournaments such as BASSMASTERS and Major League Fishing, leaders in the fishing tournament circuit.
For those looking to retire, the Pickwick area is ideal with outstanding homes overlooking the lake or perhaps a small farm with rambling creeks. www.RetireHardinCounty.org
Back in Savannah, travelers can stop in at the Tennessee River Museum, one of the best river museums of its kind. Learn about the history of the river through one-of-a kind artifacts detailing pre-historic times to post-war reconciliation. History buffs are sure to drive or walk through the city’s Historic District to see the homes, including Cherry Mansion, where General U.S. Grant was staying when the Battle of Shiloh erupted. Take a stroll along Main Street for the specialty shops, a cup of coffee or some bakery treats. While downtown, check out the weekly farmers market for the season’s best produce, fried pies, and Amish baked goods.
Other towns along the river include Crump, home to a bargain hunters paradise with a year-round weekend flea market and antique stores, and Saltillo, where you’ll find a mix of arts and bait and tackle shops.
Hardin County is a festive getaway destination. Come celebrate with the locals and enjoy this paradise outdoors. www.tourhardincounty.org