Exploring the Hatchie River Region of West Tennessee!

West Tennessee is the place to visit the last wild and longest free-flowing tributary of the lower Mississippi, the Hatchie River. A wild river is one that has never been altered by man, leaving the river’s unique ecosystem intact and able to provide a natural habitat for more than 500 species. The Hatchie provides a unique Delta experience with plenty of attractions and places to stay and dine in nearby Brownsville. Here are a few recommendations for exploring the river region to get your adventure started.

Snowmobiling the Trails of Trempealeau County, WI

Photo by Visit Brownsville

Learn All About The Hatchie River

One of the best ways to fully experience the Hatchie River is by learning what makes it special. Luckily, a stop at the Hatchie River Museum, located at the West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center, is an easy and fun way to familiarize yourself with the river. The exhibits and live freshwater aquariums give visitors a lot to look at and enjoy. The Delta Heritage Center is a must experience when visiting West Tennessee and not just for the Hatchie River Museum, it also celebrates the culture and music of the region. Another place to learn about the Hatchie River and actually experience it is the Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge. Oneal Lake and the Refuge Welcome Center offer interpretive panels and educational activities to help you experience the river and wildlife within its system.

Photo by Visit Brownsville

Explore The River Region

Being a wild river, the Hatchie provides visitors with plenty of opportunities for connecting with nature and viewing wildlife in their natural habitat. To see firsthand what the river has to offer, you can try canoeing, kayaking, fishing, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing to get a closer look at the local flora and fauna and the untouched beauty of the Hatchie. One of the bigger events held along the river is the annual Hatchie BirdFest, a popular West Tennessee birding event focused on over 200 species of birds found on the Hatchie River. The event includes special speakers and demonstrations, hikes, nature walks, and exhibitors to promote and preserve wildlife and the river.

Photo by Visit Brownsville

Stay At The Serendipity Resort

While you’re in the area, the Serendipity Resort is the perfect place to stay to continue experiencing the Hatchie River Region. They offer beautiful cabins, glamping yurts, and traditional RV and tent campground sites, allowing guests to choose which type of site best fits their comfort level. Other amenities include a bathhouse, coffee bar, on site restaurant, firewood for sale, and rental golf carts and bicycles. Additionally, there is an 18-hole Disc Golf Course, swimming pools, and the owners have plans to add on a waterpark. Serendipity Resort is located right on Johnson Lake, so you can go fishing, kayaking, paddle boating, hiking, and paddleboarding and have a great time exploring the lush river region.

Photo by Visit Brownsville

Dine At Local Establishments

Along with great lodging options, Brownsville also offers many local restaurants and bars to get a taste of the local flavor. A place you might not want to miss is Helen’s Bar-B-Q, a nationally recognized BBQ joint that is locally owned, family friendly and featured in many magazines and television shows for the amazing BBQ. Helen’s is owned and operated by Ms. Helen, one of the few female pit cooks in the country. Her menu includes oak and hickory smoked meats, including shoulder pork, ribs, bologna, and more with traditional southern sides. Make sure you have cash, because Helen’s doesn’t accept cards. Other great places to dine include the Serendipity Bar & Grill at the Serendipity Resort and ZZs for great food, drinks, and atmosphere.

Visit Brownsville TN
121 Sunny Hill Cove
Brownsville, Tennessee 38012
Phone: (731) 779-9000
Email: visitbrownsvilletn@gmail.com
visitbrownsvilletn.com