Fort Donelson National Battlefield

National Battlefield · KY, TN

Fort Donelson National Battlefield

Brigadier General Ulysses S. Grant was becoming quite famous as he wrote these words following the surrender of Confederate Fort Donelson on Sunday, February 16, 1862. The Union victory at Fort Donelson elated the North, and stunned the South. Within days of the surrender, Clarksville and Nashville would fall into Union hands. Grant and his troops had created a pathway to victory for the Union.

nps.gov ↗

Photos

The View from the Upper River Battery — A commanding view of the Cumberland River from the Upper Artillery Battery

Hallowed ground. — The Fort Donelson National Cemetery, final resting place for Soldiers who fell in battle during the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, World War I, and World War II.

cannon overlooking river — Quiet Afternoon overlooking the Cumberland River, Fort Donelson NB

Historic hotel — The Dover Hotel, site of the first major Civil War surrender.

cemetery gate — Fort Donelson National Cemetery: Final resting place for thousands of American Veterans

Confederate earthworks. — A view of the earthworks, where Confederate Soldiers once stood watch.

cannon and costumed volunteers — Volunteers demonstrate Field Artillery at Fort Donelson NB

bald eagles nesting — Bald Eagles perch on their Nest in the battlefield

picnic tables — Enjoy your lunch at the Picnic Area, Fort Donelson NB

Cannon drills during the 154th anniversary of the Battle of Fort Donelson — Volunteers of the 9th Kentucky Infantry Re-enactors demonstrate field artillery

wayside exhibit in the national cemetery — Interpreting the story of the Underground Railroad and the Free State Community

early spring native flowers — Native plants found on park trails during springtime hikes

native plants found in the park — Native flowers found on the battlefield trails

Cannons on Lower River Battery — Observation Deck on the Cumberland River

water and trees view of Tennessee River — A View from Fort Heiman, Kentucky overlooking Kentucky Lake

Activities

Auto and ATV
Scenic Driving
Guided Tours
Self-Guided Tours - Auto
Hiking
Junior Ranger Program
Park Film
Museum Exhibits