Dover, Tennesse and the Land Between the Lakes Region

Dover, Tennessee is a quaint town and its census reports approximately 2,000 people at any given time. Not far from many of the Kentucky Lake area attractions, Dover maybe small in size but it welcomes every year visitors from all over the country.

One of the most noted area attractions is Fort Donelson National Battlefield. Fort Donelson was pivotal in the Civil War, because it was located on the Cumberland River and the Union forces were successful capturing it back in 1862. It is said to be one of the first major battle fronts of the Civil War. Fort Donelson in Dover offers visitors a unique look into the past with lots of information about the battle at Fort Donelson, cannons and walking trails.

Fort Donelson also offers has a National Cemetery for soldiers that died in service to their country. Many Union soldiers and sailors have been buried at the cemetery and visitors are welcome. For more information about Fort Donelson and the Fort Donelson Cemetery you should call the visitor's center at 931-232-5706. The visitor's center for Fort Donelson is off of Hwy 79 just outside of Dover, Tennessee.

Another attraction in Dover is the Surrender House. The Surrender House was the site of General Buckner's surrender to General Grant back in 1862 and was eventually labeled as the starting point for the Union to capture the whole Mississippi Valley region. The Surrender House was built in 1851 and is located in the middle of Dover. The Surrender House was completely restored back in the 1970's and looks much like it did back in General Buckner's time. Located at 101 Petty St. in Dover anyone can visit and for more information you can call the Fort Donelson's visitor center at 931-232-5706.

There is also a game preserve in Dover called the Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuge. The Refuge is approximately 8,862 acres in size and is particularly partial to many migratory waterfowl local to the area. Cross Creeks has fishing, hiking, bird viewing areas and much more. Located at 643 Wildlife Rd in Dover, the refuge is dedicated to the preservation and management to all of the indigenous wildlife. For more information call Cross Creeks Wildlife center at 931-232-7477.

Paris Landing State Park is another beautiful local attraction. The Land Between the Lakes is home to many different attractions and Paris Landing has long been one of the most traveled areas in the region. Dover serves as the southern entrance to the "LBL". The Land Between the Lakes entire region as well as Paris Landing has many hiking trails, camping areas, open to limited seasonal hunting, as well as fishing, horseback trails and off road vehicle areas. There are too many facilities to mention all across the Land Between the Lakes but the whole region is noted for its wildlife, water activities and well maintained trails. People all across the country visit the Land Between the Lakes throughout the year. The LBL is approximately 170,000 acres in size and has numerous well maintained facilities for campers, sportsmen and families. The 1850 Homeplace is also located at the LBL and recreates a authentic 19th century working farm. Visitors are welcome to visit the Homeplace daily during the summer months. For more information about the Paris Landing State Park and the LBL call 270-924-2000 or visit www.lbl.org.

Resources for this article include: www.tnvacation.com/cities-towns/dover/
www.nps.gov/fodo/index.htm
www.stewartcountygovernment.com/