The visitor center at Stones River National Battlefield is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM in spring and summer, and from 9 AM to 4 PM from November 1 through winter. It is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. From November 3 to February 28, hours are 9 AM to 4 PM.
There is no entrance fee to visit Stones River National Battlefield. It is free for all visitors.
From Nashville, take I-24 East towards Murfreesboro. Exit at Highway 231, heading northwest. Immerse yourself in the historic landscapes and poignant memorials of a pivotal Civil War battle, just three miles from Murfreesboro.
Parking lots and pull-offs are throughout the park along the tour route and at each unit. No specific RV size limits mentioned, but designated areas only. No overnight parking. No fees.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Stones River National Battlefield, situated in the heart of Rutherford County, Tennessee, is a poignant and historically rich destination that beckons travelers to immerse themselves in the pivotal moments of the American Civil War. This 709-acre park, administered by the National Park Service, lies three miles northwest of Murfreesboro and 28 miles southeast of Nashville, along the serene Stones River.
The battlefield, where the bloodiest conflict of the Civil War unfolded from December 31, 1862, to January 2, 1863, is a tapestry of rolling hills, forests, and open fields. Visitors can traverse the landscape via a driving tour or on foot along the outdoor loop trail, each step evoking the strategic maneuvers and intense battles that defined this Union victory.
The Visitor Center serves as a gateway, offering an extensive museum with detailed battle maps and an orientation film that sets the stage for exploration. Park Rangers conduct regularly scheduled programs from May to October, and special interpretive events occur monthly, bringing the site to life with living history reenactments and insightful narratives.
The surrounding area is home to the Stones River National Cemetery, where more than 6,100 Union soldiers are buried, and the preserved remnants of Fortress Rosecrans, a major Union logistics base. Nearby Murfreesboro boasts the Evergreen Cemetery, the final resting place for some Confederate soldiers.
Seasonal changes paint the battlefield with vibrant hues: spring blooms with wildflowers, summer brings lush greenery, autumn is ablaze with golden and crimson leaves, and winter strips the landscape bare, revealing the stark beauty of the historical terrain. For those seeking a deeper connection, local outfitters and historical societies offer guided tours and special events that enrich the visitor experience.
In the vicinity, travelers can explore the charming town of Murfreesboro, with its artisan shops and local eateries, or venture to Nashville for a dose of music and culture. Whether you are a history enthusiast, nature lover, or simply someone drawn to the narratives of the past, Stones River National Battlefield is a destination that will leave you with a profound appreciation for the land and its storied history.
- Area (mi²)
- 1.1
- Annual visitors
- 418 000
- Established year
- 1927
Top 3 Facts about Stones River National Battlefield
During the battle, approximately 5,000 Confederates crossed half a mile of open field, enduring intense artillery fire that contributed to a 29% casualty rate among the 81,000 engaged soldiers, one of the highest casualty rates of the Civil War.
This verdant battlefield is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including deer, Wild Turkey, and resident Red-tailed Hawks. Early successional birds like the Common Yellowthroat and Indigo Bunting thrive in the spring and summer, while Northern Bobwhite and Song Sparrows inhabit the wood edges and fields. The landscape supports Northern Cricket Frogs, Northern Zigzag Salamanders, and Green Anoles, amidst a backdrop of mature hardwood forests and open fields, creating a rich tapestry of flora and fauna. Great Horned Owls nest in the mature forest, adding to the park’s vibrant ecosystem.
This battlefield is defined by Karst topography, featuring shallow soils, limestone outcroppings, and sinkholes. The landscape is dotted with cedar glades, openings in thick stands of red cedar where shallow soils support a diverse plant community of herbaceous annuals and mosses. The terrain’s unique geologic features, such as gray rock outcroppings, profoundly impacted the historic battle and now add to the site’s natural allure.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Living History & Cultural Demons
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a few days in fall to explore the battlefield, especially during the Riding Through History bicycle tour. Arrive early, park at designated lots, and start at the visitor center. Anticipate flat, paved trails and bring water and snacks. Enjoy Ranger-led programs and rest stops along the way.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for changing weather, sturdy footwear, and a backpack with essentials like water, snacks, map, sunscreen, and a first aid kit. Bring camping gear if staying overnight. Check the season for specific needs like warm hats or insect repellent.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards, to avoid stressing them. Never feed animals and dispose of trash properly to preserve their natural behaviors and habitats. Respect the environment by staying on designated trails and minimizing your impact.
Stay Informed
Stay on designated trails, beware of uneven terrain and wildlife, and check weather conditions. For emergencies, call 911; for non-emergencies, call 615-893-9501.
Seasons
Experience spring’s mild temperatures (60s-70s°F) and blooming landscapes. Join the Park Day Volunteer Event in April or the Bicycle Tour Through History in April and May. Lantern tours and living history events bring the past alive amidst vibrant spring weather. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Visit in summer for warm days (80s-90s°F) and engaging events like the Hallowed Ground Lantern Tour. Park rangers offer scheduled programs from May to October, amidst lush landscapes and historic significance. Ideal for history enthusiasts and outdoor explorers.
Autumn beckons with mild temperatures (50s-70s°F) and crisp weather. Enjoy Arts in the Park Month in October, featuring art exhibits, musical performances, and historical demonstrations. A perfect time to immerse in history and culture.
Visit from December to February, with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 50°F, to experience a serene and historically rich landscape under winter’s calm. Crisp air and fewer crowds make for a poignant and immersive visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Stones River National Battlefield has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
The closest city to the battlefield is Murfreesboro, Tennessee, which is about three miles southeast of the site. Nashville, the state capital, is also nearby, approximately 28 miles northwest.
-
Dogs are allowed in outdoor areas and on trails as long as they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet. They are not permitted inside the visitor center. Owners must clean up after their dogs and keep them restrained at all times.
-
Yes, parking is free here year-round. There are no entrance fees or parking fees required. You can park your camper, trailer, or motorhome without any additional cost.
-
The Battle of Stones River, fought from December 31, 1862, to January 2, 1863, near Murfreesboro, Tennessee, was a significant Union victory that boosted morale after the defeat at Fredericksburg and reinforced President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, discouraging European intervention on the Confederacy’s behalf. It was one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War, with over 23,000 casualties, and it led to internal conflicts within the Confederate high command, further weakening their position. The battle was crucial in the Union’s campaign to control the Nashville-Chattanooga-Atlanta corridor.