McFarland Park

McFarland Park, near downtown Florence, is on the northern banks of the Tennessee River. It has been meeting the recreational needs of area residents for over 10,000 years.

The park has an interesting history. Historians say the area was inhabited by Archaic people as early as 8,000 B.C. The Woodland and Copena cultures arrived about 2,000 B.C. and remained almost 3,000 years. The Mississippian Civilization, in about 800 A.D., established villages along the area. For almost 300 years, the area was home to several groups of American Indians. The first to settle in the area were the Euchees from the Great Lakes area. They were ousted by the Shawnees from the Ohio River. The Shawnees were later evicted in 1715 A.D. by the Cherokee and Chickasaws. The Cherokees signed away their rights to the area in 1806, but the Chickasaws held their claim until 1816.

McFarland Park is relatively close to all attractions and activities in Florence. The park also plays the host for numerous activities such as the Spirit of Freedom Celebration on July 4th, Trail of Tears Commemorative Motorcycle Ride and numerous fishing tournaments and festivals.

There are several family-oriented facilities in the park that are available throughout the year. There are playgrounds, including one under O’Neal Bridge, for children. There are lighted walking trails, a floating restaurant, lighthouse, and beach area. There are also 60 campsites that have all needed services. Also available are picnic shelters with fireplaces, grills, individual picnic tables, a soccer field, driving range for golfers, boat ramps, boat slips, baseball fields and fishing piers.