Giant Reelfoot Lake was created by a series of earthquakes during the bitter cold winter of 1811-1812. Landslides swept down bluffs, large areas of land were uplifted, and still larger areas sank. One of these sunken forest areas filled with water, and Reelfoot Lake was born. Reelfoot Lake State Park, located in the northwest corner of Tennessee, is one of the greatest hunting and fishing preserves in the nation, and a fantastic flatwater canoe destination. The lake encompasses 25,000 acres (15,000 of which are water) and harbors almost every kind of shore and wading bird, as well as golden and American bald eagles. Its many species of flowering and non-flowering plants attract botany enthusiasts from all over the country. Cypress dominates the margins of the lake; other trees and shrubs are also present. During the winter months Reelfoot Lake is home to approximately 200 American Bald Eagles. Bus tours to observe the eagles and waterfowl are offered daily, and experienced naturalists provide telescopes for viewing and discuss eagle ecology and lake history. It is not uncommon to see a large number of eagles and to get extremely close views. Eagles can be seen perching, flying/soaring and often snatching fish from the lake.

• Stroll one of the hiking trails through old cypress and bayou.
• Launch a boat and try your luck at fishing for bluegill, bream, largemouth bass, crappie, yellow bass, and catfish.
• Bicycle the 50 miles around Reelfoot Lake, passing through Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge and along long stretches of lakeshore.
• Take a naturalist-guided tour to see American bald eagles on their wintering grounds.