Steele Creek Park is a regional park in Bristol, Tennessee, with a 52-acre lake, walking and biking trails, and recreation facilities spread across more than 2,200 acres. You can plan a visit around a lakeside walk, outdoor activities or a stop at the Nature Center.
- Location: 4 Little Lane, Bristol, TN 37620
- Park hours: Open daily
- On-site options: Trails, paddle-boat rentals, playgrounds, disc golf and more
- Seasonal train: The Steele Creek Express operates seasonally, with separate October rides for Spooky Express
What to expect at Steele Creek Park
Steele Creek Park is a large, varied outdoor space where the lake and trails sit alongside facilities for play, exercise and group outings. The City of Bristol, Tennessee, park opened to the public on June 6, 1964, after Mayor Stacy Grayson announced plans for a park at Steele Creek in 1961.
The park’s main entrance is at 4 Little Lane. Its outdoor setting includes Steele Creek Lake, walking and hiking trails, and designated areas for activities such as disc golf and picnicking. If you’re also planning time downtown, Bristol City Centre and State Street offer another part of the city to include in your plans.
Which trails and outdoor activities can you find?
Steele Creek Park offers walking, hiking and biking trails, plus outdoor recreation for different kinds of visits. The park map labels Lakeside Trail and the Mill Creek trailhead and parking, giving you named locations to use when planning time on the paths.
Beyond the trails, options include an 18-hole disc golf course, exercise trails and stations, a multi-use field with soccer goals, and a horseshoe pit. You can also find playgrounds and a splash pad among the park’s recreation features.
What facilities and seasonal options are available?
Park facilities include 10 rental shelters, 20 picnic tables, a lodge and a Nature Center. Paddle-boat rentals offer another way to spend time by the 52-acre lake; the park map also labels a train depot and a golf course driving range.
The Steele Creek Express has operated since the park opened in 1964. It runs seasonally from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and weekend rides for Spooky Express take place in October. Schedules and availability can change, so check the official site before you go.
How do you get to Steele Creek Park?
Steele Creek Park’s main entrance is at 4 Little Lane in Bristol, Tennessee. From Travel Inn Bristol near State Street, the park is about 2.1 miles away.
For map directions, the Friends of Steele Creek gives GPS coordinates as 36°34′22″N, 82°14′03″W. If you plan to visit the Nature Center, its published hours are Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.; you can call (423) 989-5616 to confirm details. The park can also be a green-space stop in a one-day Bristol itinerary.
What should you know about park hours and access?
The park map gives year-round hours of 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Hours for individual facilities and seasonal activities may differ, so check the City of Bristol, Tennessee’s official park information before setting out.
Opening hours
- Monday to Sunday: 9 AM–9 PM
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
For questions about park access, the Park Attendant can be reached at 423-646-5213. The Parks & Recreation Office number is 423-764-4023.
FAQs
Is Steele Creek Park in Bristol, Virginia?
No. Steele Creek Park is a City of Bristol, Tennessee, regional park, at 4 Little Lane in Bristol, TN.
Can you rent paddle boats at Steele Creek Park?
Yes. Paddle-boat rentals are among the park’s features.
Does Steele Creek Park have a train?
Yes. The Steele Creek Express runs seasonally, and Spooky Express rides are offered on weekends in October.