Set along the beautiful and serene Holston River, this 440 acre park was the backdrop for the 1984 movie, The River, starring Mel Gibson and Sissy Spacek. After the conclusion of the movie the property was ceded to Hawkins County.   And then, the journey began to turn this rugged farmland into the extraordinary park we have today.

 The park hours are posted throughout the park at all times.
January through March
8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
April 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
May through August
8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
September 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
October 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
November to December
8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

364 Laurel Run Park Road
Church Hill, TN 37642

423-357-8110

Nestled in the foothills you will find that Laurel Run Park is a true treasure right here in Hawkins County. With an abundance of wild life, such as: deer, rabbit, opossum, turkeys, turtles, frogs, otters, beavers, hawks, coyotes, and the occasional bear. It also has approximately one-half mile of river frontage for all the fishing you could want, with catfish, bass (large and small mouth), red eye, and many more.

You will also find wildflowers from April through June lining the roadside, the hiking trail, and throughout the park that includes a variety of species such as:  ferns, trilliums, chicks, and many more. Photo opportunities are abundant.

Inside the park is a one mile paved walking path along the river’s edge for an ever changing view, as well as a: baseball/softball field, basketball court, tennis court, playground, amphitheater, and multiple picnic shelters scattered throughout the park.  Children will certainly enjoy exploring the mountain foothill creek.

The hiking trails are incredible.  There are 37.5 miles of trails in conjunction with Bays Mountain Park, and they feature such things as:  an overlook that rises 300’ above the park to give you a unique perspective of the surrounding area, old homesteads, an unfinished cabin and smoke house, and two waterfalls.  Laurel Falls is a scenic, 20-minute hike up the trail. An additional 20-minute hike will take you to Kiner Creek Falls.  Plan on spending the day exploring all we have to offer.

Special events are hosted within the park throughout the year.

Laurel Run Park is open all year, excluding Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day, with hours varying depending on the season.

Shelter reservations are available for a fee. Groups are welcome.

If you would like additional information, contact:

Becky Smith
Administrative Assistant/Inventory Clerk/
Park Reservations/Information Technology (IT) Support

Hawkins County Mayor’s Office
150 E Washington Street
Rogersville, TN  37857

423-272-7359 Office

423-272-1867 Fax

[email protected]

Laurel Run Park is a family oriented park along the Holston River with multiple picnic shelters, tennis court, basketball court, ball field, playground, paved track, hiking trails, wildflower viewing, and more. The Laurel Run Trails loop behind the park and into the forest line to beautiful waterfalls and streams.

Shelter Rental times are between 9:00 to 1:00 pm or 1:30 pm to closing.

Small- $10 half day or $20 all day.

Medium- $15 half day or $30 all day.

Large- $25 half day or $50 all day.  

Park is handicap accessible