Stones River National Battlefield

Stones River Nat Battlefield is absolutely breathtaking. One of the most lush and green parks in the area. It is also free to use the park, even though it is a national park. The history is rich and is only improved upon by the beautiful trails and pristine scenery. Boy, do I just wish the cedar glades were accessible.

Though small, the National Battlefield is very informative. LOVE the audio tour and hope they expand it to all the other national battlefields. That really helped in understanding the layout.
Stones River battle was a result of Lincoln pushing his generals to take some action against the Confederate army. Lincoln needed a victory to keep the war effort going. He was able to convince General Rosecrans’s to leave Nashville and head for Murfreesboro and General Bragg’s army. After 3 days of battle from 31 Dec — 2 Jan 1863, General Rosecrans was about to drive out the Confederate army and march in and capture Murfreesboro and in effect, the middle of TN. From here, the USA was able to launch further campaigns into the south. This bolstered northern morale and allowed the implementation of the Emancipation Proclamation.
I didn’t know much about this battle and found it with the help of my NP passport book. History aside, this is a beautiful area and worth the time to stop and enjoy it.
Highly recommended for all, but would recommend it in the office season to avoid the crowds due to the fact that the best way to cover the whole battlefield is by vehicle or bike. It was nice to be out and about with very few people around. I need to return because lack of time caused me to skip some sections.
Good visitor center and staff.

My sister and I came here to get a stamp in our National Parks Passport booklet. Thank you little blue book for introducing us to this little historical gem.
The place is a little sprawled out and the signs for all the outdoor exhibits and locations are sometimes hard to find/​see. I know we missed the river that the other reviewer mentioned. What we did see (most notable the «Hells Half Acre» field and the «Slaughter Pens») was very striking and understandably moving. There are a handful of places in the world where you can «feel» the history there, like the past is trying to invade the present to make sure we don’t forget it; this is one of those places.

Located on Thompson Lane, off Northwest Broad Street, this trailhead provides access to the historic McFadden farm property. This was the site of one of the bloodiest engagements in the Battle of Stones River and is marked with an artillery monument. A 60-​car parking area at this Northern terminus of the Murfreesboro Greenway System allows users to enter the 12-​foot wide asphalt trail for walking, jogging, in-​line skating, and bicycling. Access for small watercraft is available from this location
Tony and I went hiking here on Saturday, March 30^th, to enjoy the historic value, the River beauty and the battlefield. I am such a history buff and this is my type of thing. I love it. There are cannons, a lovely river, old spring site and a monument, as well as hiking trails and part of the GREENWAY… while we were there, visitors were fishing and climbing on rocks. It was such a lovely afternoon and a great way to enjoy Natures Free Playground and learn something at the same time!
I will go again and I hope you check it also…