Exploring
Pickwick
P lan your next adventure to Pickwick, Tenn., Miss.
• Boating • Bicycling • Golfing • Lodging
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contents
Exploring
Pickwick
History -- Civil War, Roosevelt’s New Deal era puts Pickwick area on the map -- Pages 8-13
2019-2020 Edition
A special publication of The Daily Corinthian
Boating -- Yachts to kayaks, houseboats to canoes, reservoir remains a boater’s dream -- Pages 18-21
EDITORIAL
Lodging -- State park villa expansion increases options to over 300 overnight ideas -- Pages 26-31
Publisher Reece Terry Editor Mark Boehler
Fishing -- Pickwick Lake, Tennessee River remain a fisherman’s paradise -Pages 36-38
Contributors Bill Avery Mark Boehler Scott Fiedler, TVA Friends of Pickwick Landing State Park Mike Hudson Carol Humphreys Lisa Lambert Sam Teague Terry Weaver Randy J. Williams
Fishing -- Catching the big blue monster -- Pages 42, 43 Camping/RVing -- Five campgrounds in Pickwick area offer plenty of choices -- Pages 48, 49 Dining -- Twenty restaurant options near lake offer plenty of variety -- Pages 5457 Events -- Roar of cannon, fireworks display or solemn services -- Area keeps busy calendar -- Pages 62, 63
ADVERTISING
Running -- Pickwick hosts six-miler, Shiloh park has a four-mile run -- Pages 68, 69
Sales Representatives Kenny Carson Devin Garrett Derinda Nunley
Birding -- Shiloh, Pickwick area are a wildlife photographer’s dream -- Pages 76-80
Creative Designer Marissa Ferreira
Disc Golfing -- Pickwick Landing State Park offers the sport for the entire family -- Page 90
Exploring Pickwick is published by the Daily Corinthian, 1607 Harper Road, Corinth, MS. The contents of Exploring Pickwick are copyrighted and may not be reproduced without consent of the publisher. Exploring Pickwick shall not be held liable for failure to publish an ad or for typographical or publication errors. Publisher reserves the right to reject any advertsing and to alter advertising copy or graphics deemed unacceptable for publications. For additional copies of Exploring Pickwick, contact the Daily Corinthian at 662- 287- 6111.
Golfing -- Tennessee Golf Trail calls Pickwick home -- Page 94
ON THE COVER Peyton D. Jackson and Carley Clement, both of Kossuth, Miss., enjoy kayaking in Pickwick Landing State Park. Photo by Keith Jackson
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HISTORY
Humble beginnings Civil War, Roosevelt’s New Deal era puts Pickwick area on the map — thanks to the Tennessee River 8
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By Mark Boehler For Exploring Pickwick One can say the Tennessee River made the Pickwick area what it is today. The river remains the focal point of an area in Southwest Tennessee rich in history. Union troops invading the area at Pittsburg Landing resulted in one of the most significant battles of the Civil War where more Americans died than all previous wars combined.
The New Deal era of President Franklin D. Roosevelt brought the construction of nine dams along the river for flood control and easier navigation. Some 81 years after completion of Pickwick Landing Dam and Locks, the Pickwick Reservoir provides a 43,100acre multi-use area playground for boating and fishing. Add other interesting historical footnotes such as mounds dating back 800 years which proves Indians lived in the area, and today’s Pickwick, Counce and Shiloh areas are worth a look for a study in history.
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Managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority, the Pickwick Landing Dam was built between 1935-38. It was the third dam built in the Tennessee Valley. The dam’s original turbines were among the largest propeller-type turbines in the world at the time they were installed. One can be seen today in the TVA parking area on the north end of the dam. The first lock designed by the Corps of Engineers and its 63-foot lift was among the highest in the world when the lock opened in 1938. Although the lock and powerhouse have been closed to the public since 9/11, TVA has two parking areas for great views of the dam, lake and tailwaters. The area below the dam also has restroom facilities. Tennessee Highway 128 crosses the dam. TVA has built new picnic sites below the dam. They are handicapped accessible and have a table and grill. THE FLOOD OF 2019
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Please note the restroom facility and picnic area below the dam are currently closed for repairs due to the flooding in late February and early March in 2019. The Tennessee River stage at Savannah crested at 395.4 in early March 2019, making it the third highest crest on record. The historic flooding in 1973 remains tops since the dam was built. The river crested at 396.11 on March 20, 1973. To give the March 2019 flood some perspective, water was 9 feet deep in the TVA campground below the dam at its highest point. The flood destroyed roads, campsites and three bathhouses. The river at Savannah crested at 401.2 on March 21, 1897, making it the highest mark on record before the dam was built in the 1930s. NEW CONSTRUCTION The construction area which can be seen both below and above the earthen part of
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PREVIOUS SPREAD Pickwick photographer Mike Hudson captured this image in June, 2018 of a Pickwick Lake sunrise from the top of Pickwick Dam. RIGHT “The Falls” on Pickwick Lake is part of the history of the area where people gather to enjoy what the lake offers today. ABOVE The Shiloh National Military Park Visitors Center shares the story of the Civil War and the Tennessee River.
the dam is TVA’s current effort to strengthen the earthen embankment to help make the area more sturdy should a major earthquake hit the area. Tons of rocks are being added to the lake side, while tons of soil will be added to the area below the earthen dam. Construction on the project will continue throughout 2019, 2020 and into the early part of 2021. A TVA survey revealed the earthen part of the dam could suffer a breach should a major earthquake strike, but the concrete portion of the dam built in the 1930s remains sound. SHILOH NATIONAL MILITARY PARK Located off Tennessee Highway 22, Shiloh Battlefield tells the story of the battle and pays homage to the 24,000 casualties, many of whom
had never seen battle before. Major General Ulysses S. Grant ascended the river by steamboat, disembarking at Pittsburg Landing. The ultimate goal was the important railroad town of Corinth, Miss. – 22 miles to the southeast. The base of operations was a plateau west of the river and forward camps two miles inland around a log church called “Shiloh Meeting House.” The Union activity caught the eye of the Confederate General Albert Sidney Johnston, who decided to march his 44,000 troops from Corinth and engage in a surprise battle. The two-day bloody battle on April 6-7, 1862, was intense, with the Confederates getting the upper hand on the surprised 40,000 Northern troops. Another 20,000 Union troops arrived
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the morning of the second day and the tide was turned. The Southern troops retreated back to Corinth. Today’s visitors can walk in the footsteps of those brave souls of long ago on grounds managed by the National Park Service. There is a driving tour which begins at the visitor center with tour stops at all the significant points of interest. The visitor center is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The visitor center offers a new interpretive film “Shiloh: Fiery Trail” every hour from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. A bookstore offers a wide variety of books, maps, DVDs, CDs, postcards, clothing and other items related to Shiloh, the Civil War, national parks and area history. Shiloh National Cemetery is also in the park, which is open from dawn to dusk and closed on Christmas Day,
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LEFT, TOP Civil War era cannon and the Tennessee River tell the story of where history meets the river at Shiloh. LEFT, BOTTOM A new day begins at dawn at Pickwick Landing Dam, a rich history which began in the 1930s.
State Park, Pickwick Village was home to 3,500 construction workers and their families from 1935-38. Hospital, cafeteria, school and homes once stood on 681 acres the state purchased from TVA in 1969. Additional land has been purchased to expand the park. (Sources:TVA, Tennessee State Parks and National Park Service) For more information: www.tva.gov/sites/pickwick www.nps.gov/shil tnstateparks.com www.tva.com
Thanksgiving Day and New Year’s Day. There are no fees to visit the park or visitor center. The nearby Corinth (Miss.) Civil War Interpretive Center is part of the Shiloh unit. It has displays on why the Civil War was fought, the War in the West, and information on the battles of Corinth and Shiloh. There is also a short film and bookstore. SHILOH INDIAN MOUNDS A town occupied the high Tennessee River bluff at the eastern edge of Shi12
loh some 800 years ago. There are seven eastern mounds, most serving as platforms for important buildings. One served as a burial mound. The mounds are just off Riverside Drive, which offers beautiful vistas of the river. Want to stretch the legs? A great hike begins at the Indian Mounds parking area and the trail leads to the mounds area. PICKWICK VILLAGE Located in today’s Pickwick Landing EXPLORING PICKWICK
The early March flood in 2019 on the Tennessee River created much damage below Pickwick Landing Dam To give the flood some perspective, note the submerged benches and damaged TVA restroom facility below Pickwick Landing Dam on March 8, 2019. EXPLORING PICKWICK
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BOATING
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Will Gardner of Corinth, Miss. flies high in the air with his wakeboard on the Tenn-Tom Waterway.
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TWRA offers two boat launch and parking areas in the stateline area at Yellow Creek.
Water heaven
Yachts to kayaks, houseboats to canoes, reservoir remains a boater’s paradise By Mark Boehler For Pickwick Profiles Pickwick Reservoir is a boater’s dream destination, from personal water-crafts, canoes and kayaks – to ski boats, sailboats and bass boats – all the way to large scale houseboats and yachts. There are quiet coves and inlets to the open waters of Pickwick, large embayments of Yellow Creek and Bear Creek, plus access to the Tennessee River and Tenn-Tom Waterway. It’s where the state of Tennessee
meets the northeast corner of Mississippi and northwest corner of Alabama. The 43,100-acre TVA reservoir gains access to inland waterways from northern states all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. Pickwick is part of the The Great Loop as transient boaters move north and south. The area near Pickwick Dam and the Mississippi – Tennessee has much to offer. Pontoon boat rentals are available at Pickwick Landing State Park Marina, Grand Harbor Marina and Aqua Yacht EXPLORING PICKWICK
Marina. TWRA has boat ramps at the state line with a large parking area. Others are available at the state park, all of the marinas and below the dam at the TVA campground. The TVA boatramp below the dam underwent renovations in 2018 with new concrete and better access. The area had to be closed after the March 2019 flood and TVA wasn’t sure when it might reopen. Check the TVA website for availability. There are many boat storage options, boat launch service, boat service and 19
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The state park also rents canoes and kayaks during the warm months. OPPOSITE PAGE Pickwick Lake offers it all when it comes to boating from small kayats to ski boats and larger cruisers. BELOW Frank and Janice Dooley love to cruise Pickwick Lake in their “Tug Dooley.”
repair, name brand boat dealerships and sales of boating supplies. Don’t own a boat and want to take a short ride? Seasonal park rangers (SPRs) at Pickwick Landing State Park offer free onehour pontoon excursions in the summer months. From Saturday, May 25 through Sunday, Sept. 1, pontoons usually take a cruise from 2-3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Trips depart from the dock at The Inn. Reservations are recommended and many cruises stay booked, especially during holiday weekends. The state park also rents
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canoes and kayaks during the warm months. A storage area and large fleet of canoes and kyaks were added at the park in 2018 due to high rental demand. The rental includes life jackets and paddles. The quiet waters in the inlet around the start park offers a great place to canoe and kayak away from the more bumpy ride out on the larger lake. For more information: www.greatloop.org www.gograndharbor.com www.aquayachtharbor.com www.tnstateprks.com/ pickwick www.friendsofpickwickpark.com
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LODGING
Villas with a View
By Mark Boehler For Exploring Pickwick Seven new premium villas with lake views and spacious living quarters at Pickwick Landing State Park have now expanded the lodging options in the Pickwick area. The “ultra-modern” two- and three-bedroom villas with full kitchens and fireplaces, also feature decks overlooking coves in Pickwick Lake. The cabins opened to the public Jan.1, 2017. The construction of the new cabins was part of an initiative by
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State park lodging expansion increases options to over 300 overnight ideas
the state park system to improve the parks and park visitor experience. “What is so wonderful about the new cabins is their location,” said Mike Dobis, state park manager at the time
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they were opened and now region manager over all state parks in West Tennessee. “They are surrounded by natural beauty.” The cabins’ living rooms provide breathtaking views. The living room furniture is hand-made solid oak furniture. The majority of the cabins’ furnishings were made in Tennessee. “There is a ‘home away from home’ atmosphere,” said Dobis. Outside decks have some bench seating, a table and chairs, and a kitchen island with a gas grill. Each
cabin has WiFi, cable TV, central heat and air, and a gas fireplace. Cookware, dishes and linens are all provided. All seven cabins have two bathrooms. Other amenities for cabin guests include the use of the indoor and outdoor swimming pools at the inn, a restaurant and a free shuttle service from the restaurant to the marina. Reservations for the cabins have really picked up since they opened. Reservations far in advance are recommended. There are night stay minimums, depending on the time of year. This is one example which represents the Pickwick experience. Visitors to the area can have as much -- or as little -- as they want when it comes to lodging options. The Pickwick area has just over 300 different choices for overnight stays.
These range from 179 motel rooms to 17 larger suites with kitchen efficiencies or full kitchens; and at least 120 villas, condos, homes, cottages and cabins are all available for rent. These numbers don’t reflect the many more property owners who don’t advertise and only rent their homes to people they know. Visitors should make reservations well in advance, especially during Pickwick’s peak season each Memorial Day to Labor Day. The Fourth of July weekend is also a huge time for the area. Weekends stay booked in the summer months and many rentals require minimum night stays. Many rentals and businesses offer nightly and weekly rates and huge discounts during the off season from November to March. Check out Pickwick’s lodging inventory. EXPLORING PICKWICK
THIS PAGE The Pickwick Landing State Park Inn has beautiful views of Pickwick Lake. The state park had plans to renovate inn rooms in the summer of 2019. PAGES 28-29T This small Oak Cove cabin has a full bath, full kitchen, washer and dryer, queen size bed, sofa sleeper and a loft which sleeps two people. For visitors staying extended periods, a seventh night is free. Small cabins in Oak Cove feature back porch covered decks. This Shady Days cabin on Ping Hill Cove offers three bedrooms, two full baths, covered back porch and a great room with open concept in the kitchen area.
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PICKWICK CABIN RENTALS Here is an example of what can be found with over 75 options. Categories are based on location – water view, water access, off water – or the number of bedrooms, from 1-2 bedroom cabins up to 5-bedroom, 5-bath lakeside dream homes. Go to www.pickwickcabins.com or call 731689-0400 for more information. HAMPTON INN Located at Highway 57 near the dam, the motel offers 48 rooms and two king suites with a large living area, sofa and lounge chairs. Visitors will find the usual extras with the Hampton experience such as complimentary hot breakfast, an outdoor pool and free 24-hour access to a nearby fitness center. THE PROSPECTOR BED AND BREAKFAST INN AT THE OUTPOST Located on Highway 128 just north of Pickwick Dam, there are two suites complete with bedroom with queen-size bed, kitchenette with coffee maker, sink, microwave and small refrigerator. Sofa couch makes into a second bed. Flat-screen TV, gas fireplace and outdoor deck round out the modern experience in a rustic setting. Each night’s stay also comes with breakfast for two from The Outpost. The Outpost continues to expand and has plans to add additional overnight experiences in 2019. Call 731-925-6990 for more information. GRAND HARBOR This is a vacation destination on the Mississippi side of Pickwick where Yellow Creek joins with Pickwick Lake. Get directions or a GPS before the visit, but what a gem at the end of the road. One and two bedroom condos with full kitchens and lake views are available, along with several three-bedroom villas and homes. On site extras include marina with boat rentals, outdoor pool and playground, lighted tennis court, ship’s store and cantina, fitness center and luxury spa. One unique feature at Grand Harbor is a free complimentary shuttle service to Freddy T’s Restaurant, The Rooftop, Club 50 and Beach Club so visitors can enjoy Pickwick’s nightlife with a designated driver on call. It’s a free service, but drivers accept tips. For more information, go to www.gograndharbor.com.
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PICKWICK LANDING STATE PARK INN This is a vacation destination within view of the dam, offering rooms with a balcony and views of the lake, plus five two-bedroom suites and 10 two-bedroom cabins in a wooded area with full kitchens and fireplaces. Park inn rooms will get a facelift in 2019 with a complete renovation which was expected to begin in May. Check with the inn for more information, including a concept room expected to be complete to give guests an idea of what new inn rooms with look like after renovation. Seven new two-and three-bedroom villas opened in 2017. One of the most visited Tennessee State Parks, inn extras include an indoor and outdoor pool, marina with boat rentals, lake access, playground, tennis courts, basketball court, 9-hole 30
disc golf course, softball field, walking track and trail, lake swimming area, sand volleyball court, restaurant, bar, gift shop with beer sales and 6,000-square-feet of conference center space. Ask about the inn’s weekend package deals which may include buffet meals in the inn restaurant. For more information, go to www. tnstateparks.com. LITTLE ANDY’S SPORTSMAN LODGE Owned and operated by a third generation family, Little Andy’s is on Highway 57 not far from the dam. There are motel rooms, suites with kitchen efficiencies and four cottages with 1-2 bedrooms, 2 baths, full kitchen and gas fireplace. R & B’s Barbecue – serving breakfast, lunch and dinner – is just a few steps away. EXPLORING PICKWICK
ABOVE The Yellow Box cabin has an upstairs gameroom with bar, sitting area, full bath and seven foldaway beds. The Yellow Box cabin master bedroom has a king size bed.
OPPOSITE PAGE The Yellow Box cabin kitchen area is typical of what can be found at Pickwick with all the comforts of home. The Yellow Box ensuite master bath has a jetted tub and spacious shower.
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Facts about TVA’s Pickwick Landing Dam
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By TVA Pickwick Landing Dam is a significant producer of hydroelectric power. It produces electricity for Hardin and McNairy counties in Tennessee and Tishomingo County in Mississippi. It has six generating units with a net dependable capacity of 229 megawatts. The dam has two locks: One measures 110-by600 feet and the other 110-by-1,000 feet. Pickwick Reservoir is located in Hardin County. It extends 53 miles south from the dam along the Mississippi-Alabama state line and then east into Alabama. Pickwick Reservoir has excellent sport-fishing areas, including the Wilson Dam tailwater at the upper end of the reservoir, noted for record-size smallmouth bass and catfish. The Tennessee River area below the dam is also a noted sport-fishing area, known for record strippers, smallmouth bass and blue catfish. Pickwick is also popular for boating activities and water skiing. FACTS & FIGURES Construction of Pickwick Landing Dam began in 1934 and was completed in 1938. The dam is 113 feet high and stretches nearly a mile and a half across the Tennessee River. A dozen TVA workers died during construction of the dam, including truck drivers. TVA workers lived in Pickwick Dam Village during construction of the dam. The village area is now Pickwick Landing State Park. Pickwick Dam is a hydroelectric facility. It has six generating units with a net dependable capacity of 229 megawatts. Net dependable capacity is the amount of power a dam can produce on an average day, minus the electricity used by the dam itself. When Pickwick Reservoir is full during the summer, it has nearly 490 miles of winding shoreline and 43,100 acres of water surface. Pickwick has a flood-storage capacity of 492,700 acre-feet. To maintain the water depth required for navigation, the minimum winter elevation for the reservoir is 408 feet. The typical summer operating range is between 413 and 414 feet.
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FISHING
Former Pickwick fishing guide and avid fisherman Rick Matlock shows some nice smallmouth bass he caught in the Tennessee River not far from the dam.
Bait & tackle dream
Pickwick Lake, Tennessee River remain a fisherman’s paradise By Mark Boehler For Exploring Pickwick Pickwick Lake and the Tennessee River remains a great sport fishing destination. It has a lot to do with a multitude of water options -- Pickwick Reservoir stretching 53 miles into Alabama, the connecting Yellow Creek embayment in Mississippi and access to the Tenn-Tom Waterway which flows into the Gulf of Mexico. And then there’s the Tennessee River and the happy hunting grounds of the Pickwick tailwaters below the
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dam, then miles of river fishing north to Crump Landing. There’s plenty of water surface to explore the TVA lake where the corners of Tennessee, Mississippi and Alabama come together. It’s a fisherman’s bait and tackle dream checklist: • bluegill • crappie • stripers • sauger • smallmouth bass • largemouth bass • white bass
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• blue catfish • channel catfish • flathead catfish There are also the typical “trash” fish like the drum, but anglers exploring Pickwick may find a few surprises along the way. Asian carp has also made its way to Pickwick, including the silver “flying” carp. Most of the locals know about the Tennessee state record sauger caught in the Pickwick tailwaters, a 7-pound, 6-ounce whopper caught by Rayford D. Voss on Feb. 19, 1973.
Pickwick fisherman Rick Matlock loves to fish the waters of Pickwick Lake and the Tennessee River. He tries his luck for smallmouth bass near Pickwick lock.
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The challenge to Pickwick is where to go. Fast current in the tailwaters? Up river? The deep waters of the lake? Rock banks? Lake coves? Shallow waters far into coves? Dr. Jim Youmans caught a state record 1-pound, 9-ounce river carpsucker on Feb. 28, 1980, while J. Wesley Neal landed a state record 1-pound, 6-ounce Atlantic needlefish on Sept. 30, 2008. This diverse fishing opportunity makes Pickwick a “bucket list” destination for sport fishermen, noted retired Pickwick fishing guide Rick Matlock. “Pickwick offers so much,” said Matlock. Most anglers know water temperature, elevation and current determine what they are after. There is a big difference in water current when all the gates at the dam are either open or closed. The challenge to Pickwick is where to go. Fast current in the tailwaters? Up river? The deep waters of the lake? Rock banks? Lake coves? Shallow waters far into coves? Pickwick is most importantly a year round lake. Although most visitors to Pickwick seek the big blue catfish, Matlock said Pickwick has so much more. His favorite target is the smallmouth bass. Smallmouth like live shinner fish and can be found near rocky shorelines, rock walls and gravel points, he shared. The angler has landed plenty of lunker smallmouth from fall through spring about a mile below the dam. In March and November, he also had success catching 7-8 pound largemouth bass. Whatever the species being sought, the best part about Pickwick is the variety. Added the angler, “different times of the year are good for different kinds of fish.” March is a great month to fish Pickwick, especially for largemouth bass. Fish for largemouth early morning and late afternoon, using 38
an Alabama rig in the spring on points and in shallow water. Lunkers can also be found in lake coves near the shoreline. He recommended a Zara-Spook for top of the water fishing. January and February are good times to catch smallmouth bass, while April and May are good for bluegill, he noted. Stripers are a good summer month fish at Pickwick below the dam, while sauger remains a winter month fish through April below the dam, noted Matlock. Stripers are in the lake, but the best spot is below the dam, noted the guide, using rubber paddletails or live gizzard shad. Sauger time is the second week of November through March. Sauger numbers have been on the decline in recent years, but TWRA is currently doing a survey as to why. When the water temperature gets above 60 degrees, sauger are hard to catch. But when the water temperature drops to 50 degrees, it’s good catching conditions, noted Matlock. The lake and river are equal in terms of success, but high winds will keep Matlock on the river rather than the large lake. The lake has a lot of watersport traffic in the warm months, so fishermen are advised to fish the early morning and late afternoon hours, he suggested. Crappie fishing is great at Pickwick from the end of March through June when the fish are spawning. Crappie run in schools and can be found in shallow water when water temperatures are between 50-60 degrees, he added. Matlock suggested an 1/8-ounce hair or tube jig, tipped with a live minnow for Crappie. After the spawning season, Crappie can be caught May through November in deep water, especially around stumps. There are two boat ramps below the dam, a TVA ramp and another at the Historic Botel. Please note the TVA ramp may be closed for repairs due to the March, 2019 historic flooding. There is a ramp at Pickwick Landing State Park, Bruton Branch Recreational Area on the north shore and TWRA ramps on Yellow Creek just off Highway 57 near the Mississippi state line. Fishermen who like to camp can find a TVA campground below the dam, Bruton Branch and Pickwick Landing State Park. Although the TVA campground is closed for repairs due to flood damage, Loop C should be open in mid to late summer of 2019, said TVA officials. There are plenty of lodging options from motel rooms, rooms with kitchen efficiencies or full kitchens, cabins and villas. There are also rental businesses who place visitors in individual’s homes with a range from one-room cabins up to six-bedroom lakeside dream homes with lake access. Pickwick has plenty of bait shops and restaurants. PICKWICK WINTER BASS TRAIL Yearly December through January pwbt.webs.com TENNESSEE RIVER RUN BASS TOURNAMENT Usually 4th Saturday in September www.the worley.org
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Russell’s BEEF HOUSE STEAK • CHICKEN • SEAFOOD
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At Russell’s Beef House, we pride ourselves on our open pit cooking method. The steaks, chicken and seafood are cooked over an open charcoal flame, which incorporates the best possible flavor into our dishes. Combined with our tasty sauce, the open fire grill sets Russell’s apart from other steakhouses. Come see us and let your senses be the judge.
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FISHING
It’s not uncommon for fishermen at Pickwick to catch big blue catfish below the dam such as this 33-pounder by Clint Newton.
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EXPLORING PICKWICK
Catching the big blue monster Huge river catfish lure fishermen from everywhere
By Mark Boehler For Exploring Pickwick Longtime Pickwick angler Rick Matlock sometimes finds himself after the huge catfish which lurk in the waters below Pickwick Landing Dam and along the Tennessee River. But on one particular day, he went after 1- to 5-pound “eaters” for a political fish fry for one of his friends. He caught 67 catfish that day, but the fisherman also hauled in a big surprise. Matlock, a retired fishing guide at Pickwick, caught a 70-pound blue catfish. After a photo session, he released the fish. This is the norm at Pickwick, home of some of the biggest blue and flathead catfish in the country. Whatever the big fish stories may reveal, the fact remains fishermen from around the world seek the big blue. Pickwick Lake and the Tennessee River also have channel catfish. Although now retired from being a guide, Matlock has taken anglers from
78TH ANNIVERSARY World Championship of Catfishing & The National Catfish Derby Time and place - TBA For more info: www.tourhardincounty.org (Note: The 2018 event was held in October in Savannah, Tenn.) many states and as far away as Japan on fishing trips. Although Matlock can fish for anything, visitors usually want the big blue experience. Matlock fishes the lake and river and suggests the same for newcomers to the Pickwick area. There is plenty of room to explore, as Pickwick Reservoir includes 43,100 acres into Alabama and the river as it flows north to Crump’s Landing, becoming part of the Kentucky Reservoir. The best months for catching blue cats are June, July, September and November and during the spawning season in March and April. The best months for flathead catfish are March, October and
November. Fish for big blues below the dam in January and February, while flatheads can be found in the tailwaters in July, October and November. Also search for flatheads along river sandbars. The popular belief the big blues go away in the hot summer months isn’t true, said the angler. Live bait is a must in catching either blues or flatheads and the best choice is fresh, cut up skipjack. A third catfish species at Pickwick — channel catfish — will eat eat just about anything, Channel cats can be found in shallow muddy waters, but many fisherman don’t seek them because they don’t get big. As far as “eating size blues,” they can be found in schools below the dam, and May would be the time for best results. Matlock advised to check the gear when going after big cats. He suggested a 100-pound braid test line with a 100-pound mono-filiment leader. That tip might lead to the next world-record blue found at Pickwick.
The best months for catching blue cats are June, July, September and November and during the spawning season in March and April. The best months for flathead catfish are March, October and November. EXPLORING PICKWICK
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Work began in February 2019 on the earthen embankment at Pickwick Landing Dam to make it much stronger should a major earthquake hit the area. It will take two years to complete. Barges are placing rock on the lake side.
Excuse our progress, please Work underway to strengthen earthen embankment part of Pickwick Landing Dam By Carol Humphreys For Exploring Pickwick There’s a lot of earth moving around Pickwick Landing Dam these days as the Tennessee Valley Authority reinforces the barrier in the event of a catastrophic earthquake. Though there is only a 7-10 percent chance a 7 or greater magnitude quake could affect the Pickwick area in the next 50 years, it could happen. Three 7-plus magnitude earthquakes occurred in New Madrid, Mo., Dec. 1811 – Feb. 1812, devastating the area. Shak-
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ing from the earthquakes caused church bells to ring as far away as Charleston, S.C. and chimneys to fall in Cincinnati, Ohio. The powerful quakes formed Reelfoot Lake in northwest Tennessee and forced the Mississippi River to briefly flow backward. Though hundreds of tiny earthquakes have continued to happen throughout the seismic zone each year since 1812, earthquakes of that magnitude rarely occur. Scientists believe quakes of this size have been occurring about once every 400-500 years.
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The Hardin County dam is in the New Madrid Seismic Zone or fault line which lies “about 100 miles as the crow flies” to the west and northwest of the area. If a large earthquake were to take place along the rift, the same intense energy would be felt at the dam. That’s why in 2014 TVA based their seismic stability analysis of Pickwick dam’s earthen embankment on this type of event. Though the dam is safe as it stands today, the evaluation indicted a Please see PROGRESS | 82
Lakes, Marinas, Caves, Museums, Parks, Arts & Crafts, Canyons, Swinging Bridge, Lots of Special Events FEW PLACES ARE PACKED WITH SO MUCH TO SEE AND DO.
TISHOMINGO COUNTY M
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Lots of Special Events...
JANUARY
Annual First Day Hike~Tishomingo State Park 662-438-6914
MARCH
Build a Bird a Home ~ JP Coleman State Park 662-423-6515
JUNE
Annual Easter Egg Hunt~Tishomingo State Park 662-438-6914 Annual Easter Egg Hunt~ JP Coleman State Park 662-423-6515 APRIL
Annual Hollis Long/Archie Lee Memorial Ole’ Tyme Music Gathering~Tishomingo State Park
JULY 4 SEPTEMBER
Annual Earth Day~Tishomingo State Park Annual Jaybird Park Spring Market~downtown Iuka 662-279-4116 Renaissance Day ~old Tish. Co. Courthouse 662-423-3500 Swinging Bridge Trail Walk/Run~ Tishomingo State Park MAY
OCTOBER
Tish. Co. Hazardous Waste Collection Day-Tishomingo Soil & Water Conversation ~ County-wide 662-423-6272 National Day of Prayer~Iuka/National Day of Prayer~Belmont
OCTOBER TBA OCTOBER
Annual Native American Customs/Traditions Festival~Tish. State Park NOVEMBER 662-438-6914 Smokin’ on the Waterway/BBQ Cook-off~Burnsville 662-427-9526 Kid’s to Park’s Day~Tish. State Park 662-438-6914
DECEMBER
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Annual National Trails Day “Less Litter More Beauty Hike” Tish. State Park Fishing Experience ~JP Coleman S Park 662-423-6515 Motorcycle Ride and Fundraiser~Burnsville Fire Dept. 662-427-9526 Picnic in the Park~Tish. State Park Street Dance~Downtown Tishomingo 662-438-6402 Fireworks & Movie in the Park~ CC Shook Park-Belmont 662-454-3381 Iuka Heritage Festival and Car & Tractor Show~ Iuka 662-423-8638 Needle Chasers Quilt Show~Iuka Baptist Church Bear Creek Festival & Car Show~Belmont 662-454-3381 Waterway Festival & Car Show~Burnsville 662-427-9526 FLW/BFL MS Division Tournament ~JP Coleman State Park Trash & Treasures along the Tenn-Tom Waterway~ Tish.County- wide 662-423-0051 Annual Fall Fling for the Young at Heart~Tish. State Park Iuka Elementary School Fall Festival 662-279-1244 Halloween in the Park~JP Coleman State Park Trunk or Treat~ dowtown Iuka Christmas Open House~ downtown Iuka Annual Jaybird Park Christmas Market~downtown Iuka 9:00-3:00 662-279-4116 Annual Celebration Festival-FCR/Crow’s Neck~Paden 662-438-7727 Annual Christmas Parades~Iuka, Belmont, Burnsville, Tishomingo 662-423-0051 Dickens Christmas~Downtown Iuka 662-212-3702
662-423-0051
tishomingofunhere.org • EXPLORING PICKWICK
/visittishomingo 47
CAMPING/RVING
Escape to the great outdoors Five campgrounds in Pickwick area offer plenty of choices By Mark Boehler For Exploring Pickwick The Pickwick Lake area near Pickwick Landing Dam offers over 250 campsites, at least 200 of which provide electric and water hookups. The four campsites include a Tennessee Valley Authority site, state recreational area, state park and a private RV park. They are under beautiful trees or provide stunning views of Pickwick Lake or the Tennessee River. Whether it’s in a tent, pop-up, travel trailer, fifth wheel or RV, all offer
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the Pickwick experience in different ways to offer a broad selection of camping options. PICKWICK DAM TAILWATER CAMPGROUND Just below Pickwick Dam is a TVA campground with 100 sites, 92 of which have electric and water hookups. Nestled under pine trees, the sites offer a beautiful view of the Tennessee River and a boat launch ramp is available. The sites are great for tents, pop ups or RVs of any size.
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Previously a self-service campground with a host, TVA now has a lease agreement with Recreation Resource Management. Open from mid-March until mid-November, reservations are required for many sites. Some sites are first come, first serve with no reservations. There are length of stay restrictions, depending on time of year, from 21 days to 30 days. The sites have grills and picnic tables. There are three restroom and shower facilities and a dump station.
Please note the historic March 2019 flood destroyed most of the campsites and all three bathhouses, but TVA has plans to rebuild. Plans call for Loop C to open first by mid to late summer in 2019, followed by Loop A and Loop B in the future. It was unclear how long it will take TVA to rebuild the campsites, but extensive improvements to the campgrounds were also part of the future plans. For more information, call the RRM campground managers at 865-3619492. PICKWICK LANDING STATE PARK CAMPGROUND Nestled in a wooded area just off Pickwick Lake near the dam is a 48-site campground in the state park. All sites have a table, grill and electric and water hookups with varying AMPs to accomodate tents, popups, trailers and RVs. There is a bathouse and dump house
and reservations are accepted in the year-round open campground. Check park website for rates, which generally range from $8 to $25. BRUTON BRANCH RECREATION AREA This 43-site primitive campground is on the north shore of Pickwick Lake off Highway 128 and features some lakeside sites for great views of the lake. Open April through October, it has a bathhouse, playground and boat ramp. It is state-owned and part of Pickwick Landing State Park. GREEN ACRES RV RESORT Under new ownership, it is located five miles north of Pickwick Landing Dam off Highway 128. Green Acres has 48 sites with 30 and 50 AMP electric hookups with water. It’s pet friendly, offers Wi Fi and has a laundry facility, volleyball court, saltwa-
ter pool, restrooms, showers, playground, two pavillions and cable TV. The resort hosts a sanctioned barbecue festival every April called Battle of the Tennessee River. Check the Green Acre website for current rates. BOTEL RV PARK Located just south of the TVA campground below the dam, there are RV and tent sites. There is a swimming pool, market, boat ramp and bar and grill. The Botel was closed after the March 2019 flood, so check availability before visiting. For more information www.greenacresrvparktn.com www.tva.com tnstateparks.com www.tnvacation.com camprrm.com
OPPOSITE PAGE Fourth of July visitors enjoy bluegrass music, homemade ice cream and smoked pork barbecue in the TVA campground below Pickwick Landing Dam. LEFT RRM Campground Manager/Host Dallas Jones welcomes visitors to the TVA campground below the dam.
EXPLORING PICKWICK
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Feeding Pickwick for 30 years!
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Ryan Properties 109 A East Quitman, Iuka, MS. 38852
Points of Pickwick Recently remodeled. • Lots of cabinets • Beautiful hardwood floors • Two fireplaces • 3 BR, 2 BA • Ceilings 10-14 feet • Garage/ pea gravel drive • Steel deck w/ wood decking • Ceiling fans. Second floor for guest; 2 BR, 1 BA, full kitchen & more. $224,900 New pool, marina- gated sub.
TWIN CREEKS -INVESTMENT of 160 Acres of rolling land. A mixture of pine, open land, fields, home place and great for hunting. A pond and two creeks complete the property on paved road. CRP for pine (15.11 acres) and corn (13.2 acres) pays taxes on property while you enjoy what you like to do. Prentiss Co.. $1150 per acre-$184,000
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DINING
Piggin’ out Pickwick style Twenty restaurant options near lake offer plenty of variety
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EXPLORING PICKWICK
By Mark Boehler For Pickwick Profiles When it comes to the cuisine of Pickwick Lake from Shiloh to Yellow Creek, there are as many culinary uniques are there are regional standards. Fried catfish and hushpuppies probably top the list as to the most sought after dish, followed closely by pork barbecue, beef burgers and buffalo wings. But that’s not to say steaks, tacos, seafood, pizza, grits and greens can be found on a multiple of menus of folks looking to feed their interests. Mexican, Cajun or Southern country dishes, Pickwick and Shiloh area restaurants are serving up both traditional or unique dishes for delightful eating experiences for breakfast, lunch and dinner. One might expect fried Tennessee River catfish on the menu at eateries near Pickwick Lake. Served with traditional hushpuppies, raw white onion and cabbage slaw, it remains one of the menu staples in the Pickwick Lake area. After all, some of those catfish called Pickwick home before they made their way to the dinner plate. And unique to the Pickwick area is the tradition of smoked catfish. Try the appetizer or order the plate for some smoked goodness. Another Southern favorite is another expectation -- pulled barbecue pork and pork ribs, slowly smoked for long hours over a hickory pit. Just one sniff in the lakeside air will reveal there are several smokers doing their thing. From single items to entire menus, restaurants pay homage to all things pig. But to say pig and cat are the only culinary animals in the Pickwick and Shiloh area would
OPPOSITE PAGE The Shiloh and Pickwick area dining tradition remains fried catfish fillets with all the trimmings -- hushpuppies, french fries, cole slaw, slice of yellow onion, tarter sauce and lemon wedges. ABOVE The Pickwick Landing State Park Inn restaurant includes a stunning view of Pickwick Lake.
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BELOW Some Pickwick area restaurants offer extended hours and extra options during the warmer summer months when there are more visitors to Pickwick Lake. PREVIOUS PAGE Buffets are a part of the Pickwick dining experience. No Pickwick and Shiloh area eating experience is complete without trying whole fried catfish.
be an understatement. Although the barbecue and catfish selections may make the bucket list on things to experience, the two stars are just a part of the extensive Pickwick experience. There are 20 eating out options in the Pickwick Lake and Shiloh area, most all home owned and home operated in the non-franchise category. They range in size from large dining areas to small take-out shacks. From the Mississippi-Tennessee state line area, from Highway 57 at the state line to west of Counce to Shiloh and south to the state line, including the Pickwick Landing Dam area, the offerings are broad to appeal to a wide audience. Their ages range from a recent 80th anniversary celebration to
several opening the past few years. Many have outdoor decks for visitors to enjoy the great outdoors. Talk to the year around residents and weekend overnighters and all have favorite places to go, but first time voyagers to Pickwick need to know what they seek to satisfy hunger needs. There is a pizza eatery and sandwich joints, seafood and steaks and buffets. There’s a twist of New Orleans with Cajun Catfish and Shrimp and Grits or country fare for lunch and dinner with cornbread, black-eyed peas, turnip greens and fried green tomatoes. There is Mexican and Italian fare with fajitas or meatball subs, plus all things traditional like prime rib, cornbread salad, meat and three lunchtime specials or sandwiches with homemade sourdough bread
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with fresh homegrown tomato slices. There are a bunch of good burgers being served up around the lake, including some with their own special sauce. On the griddle or the grill, the cheese and side options are limitless. Many are off the chain, but none are from a chain. For those wanting something on the unusual side, slugburgers can be found at Pickwick. The burger made from a meat and soy mixture and deep-fat fried to a crunchy state put nearby Corinth, Miss. on the unique travel path. Served on a bun with dill pickles, mustard and onion, the cafe lunch favorite can be found on one menu at Pickwick. Where can all these places be found? That’s the fun part of “Exploring Pickwick.”
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11th season
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Celebrity Ghost Hunt Saturday, June 22 Get tickets @ HauntedCorinth.com
Tour the city's oldest cemetery and meet Corinth's greatest legends
Saturday, Oct. 5 / 9am-3pm Saturday, Nov. 16 / 8am-4pm Learn more @ CorinthGreenMarket.com
Saturday, Oct.26 / 4-6pm Sunday, Oct. 27 / 2-4pm Get tickets @ TourCorinth.com
Crossroads Museum & Historic Corinth Depot 221 North Fillmore St Corinth, MS 38834
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EVENTS
Things to do, people to see Roar of cannons, fireworks display or solemn services — Shiloh and Pickwick keep a busy calendar By Mark Boehler Exploring Pickwick The roar of Civil War era cannon, skies filled with a huge Fourth of July fireworks displays or a solemn Memorial Day ceremony — there is almost always something going on at Pickwick Lake, the Counce area and Shiloh battlefield on weekends in the warmer months. The peak visitation is from Memorial Day weekend until Labor Day weekend, but things get busier when 62
warm temperatures begin in April and last until October when beautiful fall foliage returns. It’s best to check websites closer to the time a visit will occur as many have event listings just two months out. But there are many yearly planned events. So here are a few to consider: • Memorial Day program at Shiloh National Military Park and Shiloh National Cemetery. Shiloh also offers EXPLORING PICKWICK
weapon firing demonstrations, Civil War encampments and living history programs on weekends in the warmer months. Check in at the visitor center for planned events or visit the park’s website. Shiloh always has ranger-led tours on the April 6-7 battle anniversary dates and on the weekend closest to the dates. • Fourth of July Fireworks at Pickwick Landing State Park. It’s a great show with plenty of viewing areas
both on the lake, dam and inside the park. Grand Harbor Marina usually plans a Sizzle on the River Fireworks Extravaganza. It is always staged on the Saturday closest to July 4th and in 2019 is planned for 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 6, at the marina. The state park usually has seasonal rangers offering nature and kids activities in the summer months from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. Junior Ranger Camps for 2019 were planned for ages 4-7 on June 4 and ages 8-13 for June 17. Christmas in the Park the second weekend in December offers much to do and is a favorite visitor event. There is always an Easter Egg Hunt on the Saturday of Easter weekend. Check the park office, inn or park website for planned events. *Country music singer and Hardin County native Darryl Worley sponsors
the Tennessee River Run each year to benefit his foundation for charitable work. Known for his top hit “Have Your Forgotten?”, Worley’s concert with big name acts is usually the second Saturday in September and has been moved to Savannah. There are many Pickwick area activities held on different weekends, including Boat Poker Run, Bass Fishing Tournament, Golf Tourney, Motorcycle Poker Run and 5K run. Check the river run website for times and places. Summer goes out with a bang with the District Three Community Center Labor Day Barbecue. It’s a fundraiser for the center and always held on the Saturday before Labor Day. Besides pontoon cruises (see Boating) at Pickwick Landing State Park, a National Trails Day Hike will be from 2:30 - 3 p.m. on June 2, 2018. A Junior Ranger camp for ages 7-11 will be held June 5-6.
Although it’s a little more quiet at Pickwick in the winter months, there are two great annual events worth a visit. • Friends of Pickwick Landing State Park Annual Wine Tasting is held at the state park inn on a Saturday in January or February. Different countries are featured each year with all proceeds going to the friends group, which supports park projects. • The Pickwick Landing Rotary Club Mardi Gras party is always held on Fat Tuesday in February. It’s food, drink and entertainment with all proceeds going to charity. Freddy T’s usually hosts the popular event. For more information: www.friendsofpickwickpark.org www.gograndharbor.com www.tnstateparks.com www.hardincountychamber.com www.tourhardincounty.org www.nps.org/shil www.tnriverrun.org
A National Park Service ranger snaps a photograph of two “Confederate widows in mourning” (opposite page) in Shiloh National Cemetery during the 2018 Memorial Day program. A large crowd always turns out when Shiloh National Military Park hosts a Memorial Day program every year inside Shiloh National Cemetery (above). EXPLORING PICKWICK
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“One of the Area’s Best Health and Rehabilitation Facilities” TISHOMINGO MANOR NURSING HOME, well-known for being of one of the areas best health and rehabilitation facilities, is well suited for short term rehab and long term care. The facility specializes in Skilled Nursing, Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy, Hospice Services, SubAcute Care and Restorative Therapies. The facility operates with a skilled, caring and compassionate staff dedicated to the well-being of your loved one. For more information about our facility or to tour our facility, please contact Tina Stevens, Administrator or Diane Borden, Admission Coordinator at 662-423-9112. The Staff at Tishomingo Manor would like to say THANK YOU to the families for placing their trust and confidence in us. 230 Kaki St. • Iuka, Ms. • 662-423-9112
2 Locations to Serve You 2200 Hwy 72 East Corinth, MS. 662-594-1527
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RUNNING
‘Run in the Park’
Pickwick hosts six-miler, Shiloh park has four-miler By Mark Boehler For Pickwick Profiles Pickwick Lake has its fishing and boating. Shiloh is rich in history. But folks who like to run to stay fit will be glad to know the area is a good destination to put on those running shoes. There are two fun runs held annually in the area — one in a state park and the other in a national park. Pickwick Landing State Park offers two great roadway loops in “The Circle” with great views of the 68
lake and another past the marina through the cabin area. There are also two trails. A 1.7mile paved trail takes runners from the Inn to “The Circle” and back, while the 3-mile Island Look Trail begins in the cabin area and is a loop to the lake and back. Pickwick is a stop of the Tennessee State Parks Running Tour every year. The “Race to the Landing” six-miler begins and ends at the Inn and uses both roadway and paved trail. Pickwick is a stop of 21 total
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races held in state parks every year from October through March. They are a broad range in distance, from five, six, seven, eight miles and 10K, 11K, 12K and 15K and half-marathons. Shiloh National Military Park offers runners a variety of options with many miles of paved roadway and scenic views. There are plenty of loops and one-way roads for visitors to plan their run. Rhea Springs off Corinth Road is a great starting point. Corinth - Pittsburg Landing Road, Eastern
The Savannah Rotary Club hosts the “Run in the Park” at Shiloh each spring (top left). Runners like to go for a jog on the roads inside Shiloh National Military Park (above), home of the four-mile “Run in the Park” each sprng.
Corinth Road, Confederate Road and Hamburg - Purdy Road are all fairly level. Riverside Drive to the Indian Mounds is a great run, but beware Riverside Drive from the mounds to the visitor center — it’s a steep incline. Woody Harrell, retired park superintendent and an avid runner, said many of the roads at Shiloh are concrete. “That’s something to consider when doing a long Shiloh run like nine miles on the old tour route,” he said. Harrell’s favorite run in the park begins at the visitor center; turns on the newer Jones Field Road past two burial trenches; after the Tennessee monument, turn on the Hamburg-Purdy Road at the Raith monument; after passing the Albert Sidney Johnston monument, proceed
through the Indian Mounds area and Dill Branch to finish at Shiloh National Cemetery. “This is right at 6.2 miles (10K) and is the most scenic and nice change in topography part of the park,” he said. The Savannah Rotary Club has a fourmile “Run in the Park” at Shiloh every year. It began annually the second Saturday in April and begins near and ends at Shiloh church. It was moved to a Saturday in May in 2017 and 2018, but returned on April 13, 2019. Check their Facebook page for more information. Nearby Corinth, Miss., is home to the Corinth Coca-Cola Classic 10K which will celebrate its 39th anniversary in 2020.
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It is always held the first Saturday in May. Only on-line registration is available and if a runner wants to participate, better do so in advance. Race officials cut off the number of registrations at 1,500 in 2013 through 2019. It is the largest footrace in Mississippi. Corinth is also home to Austin’s Shoes’ Run with Rotary 5K held the first Saturday in April. It begins and ends in historic downtown Corinth. For more information www.tennesseeerunningtour.com savannahrotaryrun.com www.nps.gov/shil tnstateparks.com/parks www.corinthcoke.com corinthrotary5k.com 69
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PICKWICK PICKWICK LAKE LAKE VACATION RENTALS RENTALS VACATION We Have Something for Everyone at Pickwick Lake!
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BIRDING
THIS PAGE Photographer Terry Weaver captured this image of a red-shouldered hawk at Shiloh National Military Park. OPPOSITE PAGE Photographer Mike Hudson captured this image of a pair of bald eagles which return to Shiloh National Military Park every year.
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Eagles, Owls & Egrets, Oh My! Shiloh, Pickwick area are wildlife photographer’s dream By Mark Boehler Exploring Pickwick Shiloh National Military Park had over 435,000 visitors in 2017, according to the National Park Service. None of those visitors are more popular then Hiram and Julia. The nesting pair of bald eagles returned for the 11th straight year in 2019 to their nest just off Riverside Drive. Since the nest isn’t far from the ground and just off a paved road, it presents a rare opportunity for bird lovers to watch and photo-
graph the national bird. The popular duo returned in 2019 and reared two eaglets much to the delight of area bird watchers and wildlife photographers. Hiram was the given name to Union Gen. U.S. Grant before he changed his name at a young age. Julia was Grant’s wife. The eagles are winter residents. They usually lay two eggs in January, the young hatch in February-March and the fledglings leave the nest in May. March, April and May are great months to view the eagles as
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they fly in and out of the nest, bringing food and reinforcing the nest with sticks and straw. The best time to watch them are early morning and late afternoon hours. Another mating pair of bald eagles return to Pickwick every year, but are usually harder to find. Shiloh has 4,200 rural acres and presents a great place for birding. It is open from dawn to dusk. Wild turkey, wood duck, bobwhite quail, red-tailed hawk and several species of owls call
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Shiloh has 4,200 rural acres and presents a great place for birding. It is open from dawn to dusk. 78
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Shiloh home. Songbirds which can be seen include bluebirds, Kentucky warbler, Baltimore oriole, field sparrow, mockingbird, cardinal and cedar waxwing. Some bluebirds nest in the Shiloh cannon each year. Wildlife watchers can also see plenty of white-tailed deer in the park, as well as fox and coyote. Tennessee River views are offered along Riverside Drive and below Shiloh National Cemetery. Pickwick Lake and the Tennessee
River are also birding hot spots. The Tennessee Valley Authority has viewing areas with parking both above and below the dam. Please note the area below the dam is closed due to repairs after the March 2019 flood. The restroom facility and day use picnic area below the dam are being repaired. Bald eagles, ospreys, geese, ducks, egrets and even pelicans have been seen in the Pickwick area. Early morning is the best
time to watch for birds. Late winter and early months are the best time to see non-migratory birds, while migratory birds can best be seen in the winter months. Ospreys built a nest and raised their young on top of electrical devices on Pickwick Landing Dam in 2013 — in full view from the bridge over the dam. They returned in 2019. Nearby Pickwick Landing State Park is another good place to watch for birds. It offers 681
PREVIOUS PAGE Terry Weaver captured this image (top) of a great-horned owl inside Shiloh National Cemetery. Mike Hudson captured this image (bottom) of a barred owl inside Shiloh National Military Park. BELOW Photographer Terry Weaver captured this image in June 2018 of the ospreya which built a nest on Pickwick Landing Dam. Three young birds (left) flew from the nest two days after the photo was taken.
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Birds of prey are not the only wild animal to be photographed in the Shiloh and Pickwick areas as Mike Hudson captured this image of a white-tailed deer at Shiloh National Military Park.
acres and some great views of the lake. Geese and ducks call Pickwick home and can be seen near the shore. The 2.8-mile Island Loop Trail and 1.2-mile paved Inn Walking Trail are good places to go birding. Park staff offer free pontoon rides on weekends in the summer months to look for wildlife. Friends of Pickwick Landing State Park erected an osprey pole and nesting platform in January of 2014 in hopes to lure a mating pair of ospreys. As of the spring of 2019, no pair had called the area home near the Pickwick Landing State Park Inn. The state park has also built
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an aviary for birds of prey who are unable to fly. It was expanded in 2018. Opened in the fall of 2017, three red-tailed hawks, including two named “Buddy” and “Lt. Dan,” call the park’s new aviary home. Others birds of prey which can be seen include a barred owl, great horned owl and turkey vulture. There is also a new picnic area at the aviary, located next to the park office near the park entrance. For more information tnstateparks.com www.nps.gov www.shiloheagles.com www.friendsofpickwickpark.com
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Wildlife watchers can also see plenty of whitetailed deer in the park, as well as fox and coyote.
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large earthquake could result in the loss of strength in some soil layers of the embankment. This could lead to slope instability and the breach of the dam. The dam was equipped with an updated warning system, adding 30 seismic instruments that monitor it 24/7. When a 3.6 magnitude earthquake happened in March, 2019 near Dyersburg, Tenn., it was picked up by a seismometer, an instrument that responds to ground motions caused by earthquakes. TVA has a “shaking intensity” threshold where alerts are issued for a region when the expected ground shaking intensity is above a minimum threshold. “If a significant earthquake occurs, we follow it up with dam inspections throughout the valley,” said Bernie Auld, TVA’s Senior Program Manager for River System Dam Safety. “In the Dyersburg event, we didn’t have the ‘G-force’ that required those type of inspections.” The engineer also oversees the Pickwick Landing Dam project. “Pickwick dam’s south embankment didn’t meet TVA’s two-foot deformation criteria,” he said. “We also did an analysis on the concrete portion of the dam. Everything passed in terms of stability based on seismic events so we are only mitigating the south embankment.” Upgrades to the embankment are currently being made both upstream and downstream of the dam. People traveling State Hwy. 128 across the dam can see barges with cranes placing tons of rock fill upstream on the south side of the dam. A temporary barge unloading site is located near Pickwick Landing State Park where fill materials are being shipped to work sites downstream. “The earthen part of the dam is just shy of a mile long. We’re placing berms both upstream and downstream,” said Auld. A filter placed along the bottom of the embankment will prevent any soil from leaking through if any cracking should incur. Compacted earthen fill will be put in place, similar to the process of building up a highway. Local contractors are being used for
A filter placed along the bottom of the embankment will prevent any soil from leaking through if any cracking should incur. the dam construction. The only quarry being used outside the Savannah area is for the rock fill which couldn’t be found locally to meet the specifications required. Construction vehicles are being routed to the work area downstream by a newly constructed gravel access road that ties into North Carolina Landing Road. The road is closed to the public while construction is going on for safety reasons. An environmental assessment was done beforehand in regard to the barges being parked near the state park to store and move material. The concern was the effect this would have on boating and fishing adjacent to the park. The decision to use barges for transport was made in hopes of minimizing the amount of material being trucked in to the popular summer destination. The dam reinforcement project which began in February, 2019 is expected to last about two years. In the meantime, TVA has constructed a Dam Failure Warning System to alert residents downstream in the unlikely event of deformation at the south embankment dam. If the dam were to breach, Auld said it would be similar to the 2013 flood event near Savannah. He added the flooding
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“The Captain’s Galley” Restaurant Located at the Pickwick Landing State Park Inn 120 Playground Loop
WE OFFER....................... • The perfect place for your holiday family get together or business party. • A beautiful view of the lake from our dining room or hotel rooms for your enjoyment. • Banquet facilities that will accommodate groups from 40-500 guests, comfortably. • Cocktails, Wine and Beer available (Must be 21 years of Age)
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Banquet Menus available to assist you in planning your special event. We are now serving a variety of meats & vegetables on our lunch buffet and salad bar 7 days a week 11am-2pm. Please Call Ahead to To See If Buffet Is Available. Buffet also available: Fri & Sat Dinner 4:30pm-9:00pm We also offer full menu service for all meals.
Call now for additional information 731-689-3135 Sun-Sat Breakfast 7:00am-10am Sun-Thurs 11:00am-8:00pm Fri-Sat 11:00am-9:00pm Call For Our Special Winter Seasonal Hours
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MAIN STREET
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s t n e v E Films on Fillmore: May 3 & October 24 Summer Nights in Corinth: May 16 & June 20 S l u g b u r g e r F e s ti v a l : July 12 & 13 Monster Mash: October 24 Downtown Open Houses: November 9 Celebrate Corinth: November 21 Corinth Christmas Parade: December 7
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BICYCLING
Pedal pushers Shiloh Battlefield has just over 13 miles of paved road By Mark Boehler For Exploring Pickwick SHILOH, Tenn. – A great Civil War battle was fought here 157 years ago, which eventually created Shiloh National Military Park. But people who love to ride atop two wheels know it’s a great place to explore on a bicycle. Unlike on some city streets and state roads, there are no dogs at Shiloh. And most of the motorists are going at a slow rate of speed as they are taking in the tour stops and monuments, so the park is a safe place to bike. Avid bicyclist Steve Shaw of Corinth, Miss., is one of many area residents who love to bike at Shiloh. “Motorists know you are there. They are aware,” he said. Bicyclists must stay on the over 13 miles of paved roadway inside the national park, as cycling isn’t allowed on trails. Although many riding enthusiasts like to bike the 12.7-mile Driving Tour for a tour in history, many ride to enjoy seeing nature and wildlife. Park guides and rangers sometimes offer a couple of bicycle tours each year, usually in the spring and fall. Check the Shiloh Battlefield website for any possible scheduled tours. Riders be forewarned of Shiloh’s varied terrain as bicyclists will discover the same steep surprises as soldiers did in 1862. While most of Shiloh is flat, there are some hills, and Riverside Drive at the end of the Driving Tour passes through a steep ravine. 86
Benje Case enjoys a bicycle ride at Shiloh National Military Park.
Rhea Springs is a great spot to begin a bicycling loop tour. There is plenty of parking, a freshwater spring and creek are there to observe, and riders can plan several
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different loop tours from the Driving Tour stop. Free park maps are available at the visitor’s center and there are no admission fees to ride in the park.
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DISC GOLF
Hitting the chains Pickwick Landing State Park offers the growing sport for the whole family By Mark Boehler For Exploring Pickwick Visitors to Pickwick Landing State Park may now know those gray metal baskets with chains are for the nine-hole disc golf course. Signage on every hole has been added, showing participants where to throw the disc and how many yards it takes to reach the basket. A large sign in front of the Inn where the first hole begins has an outlay of the course. Former park ranger John Ball designed and helped install a nine-hole disc golf course in 2015. It’s a growing, family-friendly sport where participants hurl small round discs similar to Frisbees with the ultimate goal to hit the chains (cha-ching!) with the discs ending up in the basket. Like regular golf, disc throwers keep score with each throw as a stroke. The baskets — called holes — are about 250-feet away from the first throw but
range from 130 feet up to 404 feet on the course in the park. John Ball is a competitive disc golfer who enters tournaments and when he arrived for ranger duty in December 2014, he saw the potential for a course in the park. “This park was a prime location for a disc golf course,” said Ball at the time. The sport continues to grow because all ages can play, from young kids and teenagers through all ages and even senior citizens. “I thought this would provide another opportunity for the entire family to spend time together,” said the park ranger. “Mom, dad, kids, grandkids, grandparents — all can play together. I recently led an intro to disc golf program and had four generations of the same family attend.” Ball beams with pride as he talks about designing the course — a first for the disc golfer. “I wanted to create a course which
would be simple for beginners, yet provide a degree of difficulty for the more experienced disc golfer,” he explained. The scenic course travels through a pine tree stand, proceeds toward The Circle drive and ends with what will probably be the course’s signature hole on Number 9, which has Pickwick Lake as the backdrop for the basket. “Number 9 is such a beautiful hole with the lake,” said Ball. “There will be some concern as an overthrow could end up in the water.” “The hope is this course will be a catalyst for people to see the benefit of having a disc golf course in a state park,” said Ball, as there are no fees to use the course. Golf discs are available for rent and purchase in the Inn gift shop. Course maps are also available at the inn. For more information: www.tnstateparks.com www.pdga.com www.dgcoursereview.com
Pickwick Landing State Park Disc Golf Course designer and former park ranger John Ball prepares to tee off on Hole #9 near “The Circle.” 90
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GOLFING
Golfers eye their putts on a large green at Pickwick Landing State Park Golf Course, part of the Tennessee Golf Trail.
Fore!
Tennessee Golf Trail calls Pickwick home By Mark Boehler For Pickwick Profiles Pickwick Landing State Park Golf Course remains a golfer’s destination. The course is in very good condition and playing numbers continue to increase every year, said Manager and Golf Pro Preston Maxey. He credited the increase in play to the excellent condition of the course. Maxey also likes to think word has gotten out on the over $1.5 million investment the golf course made in improvements five years ago. That’s one reason why visitors to Pickwick Lake should pack their golf 94
bags when planning a trip to the area. The state-owned course is one of two courses which have been placed through thick hardwood and pine forests, providing 27 holes over 9,558 yards (long tees) of challenging play with plenty of water hazards to remind the golfer the lake will beckon for playing time when the round is over. PICKWICK LANDING STATE PARK GOLF COURSE A beautiful destination course as part of the Tennessee Golf Trail, this par 72 challenge offers 6,478 yards over 18 holes. Golfers who haven’t played the EXPLORING PICKWICK
course the past few years will find some nice surprises, as a new digital irrigation system, new cart paths and two new course restroom facilities have been added. Pickwick Landing State Park also offers golf packages which range from $109.90 to $145.90 depending upon time of the year and day of the week. Based upon two people to a room, the packages include a room at the inn, one day of unlimited golf with cart and practice balls before each round. Some packages include the breakfast buffet at the park inn. “There are a wide variety of packages,” said Maxey.
Depending upon the tee, the park golf course ratings range from 65.7 to 71.1 on the course located at the intersection of Highways 57 and 128. Out of bounds guards 11 holes. There are 21 bunkers and three water hazards. Hole no. 2 is a 396-yard signature dogleg right par 4 with out of bounds protecting the right side. Maxey said the toughest hole is no. 14, another dogleg right with water to the right and a narrow landing area. Tee times are recommended. It’s best to call ahead as much as possible, especially for weekend play. Tee times can be reserved at www. tngolftrail.net and go to Pickwick. The manager said the course is also hosting many tournaments. The course is open year-round. Amenities include club rental, practice green, driving range, snack bar and nearby lodging at the park inn. Pickwick is also part of the Tennessee Golf Trail, where an annual fee allows golfers unlimited playtime at nine state parks across Tennessee. FOX CHASE GOLF COURSE AT CARROLL FARMS Located on Highway 57 in Counce, this 9-hole public course is a par 36 with 3,080 yards off the tee. Visitors are welcome, locals love it and the course is great for novice and beginning golfers. The rates are very reasonable and the course offers a variety of smaller and sloped greens. Water hazards come into play on
three holes, including the no. 4 par three which includes a two-tier green. The 150-yard, par 3 no. 7 hole has an elevated tee with a scenic view. Fox Chase has a practice green, driving range and pro shop. Fox Chase will host the Second Annual Hardin County Open in 2019 on July 13-14. The Championship Flight will pay $2,000 to first place. Learn more about the two-person scramble by going to the Fox Chase Facebook page.
The par 72 challenge at Pickwick Landing offers 6,478 yards over 18 holes.
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PROGRESS
A TVA drawing shows how the new berm will look once complete on the earthen embankment at Pickwick Landing Dam. There is rock fill on the lake side and earth fill below the dam beside the locks.
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in February this year was worse than what would be expected from a breach. Downstream risks would be limited to a few miles downstream of Pickwick Dam and not include Savannah. Though flood levels would be similar to those reached in the area in May 2013, the flooding would occur much faster with less time for evacuation. “After our evaluation, TVA did an educational rollout in 2015 for people living downstream, including farmers,” said Auld. “They were shown what areas would likely be inundated. If anyone felt shaking from an earthquake and needed to get out of their house, they were told to seek higher ground.” The warning system being used in case of a sizable earthquake will continue to operate while construction is going on at the dam. It provides enhanced surveillance and monitoring systems. Thermal cameras allow TVA to have “eyes on” both night and day. The cameras permit views of a potential seep or breach condition within the embankment based on its heat signature. A coaxial cable also measures any movement in the dam. In conjunction with the National Weather Service, vouchers for weather radios were given to people living downstream of the dam so warnings could be sent out similar to tornado alerts. Traffic conditions at the dam will continue to be evaluated for safety. Other than a little increase in traffic, Auld said none of the activities is expected to affect traffic on Hwy. 128. The dam will operate as normal. The Army Corps of Engineers and the Federal Emergency Management Agency have a multi-agency training exercise planned to simulate a big earthquake at the New Madrid Fault Line. “We will be an integral part of that and I’m looking forward to it,” said Auld. “We’ll learn a lot through that process.” Pickwick Landing Dam will be part of the exercise. Other federal, state, regional and county-wide entities throughout the Southeast will also be involved.
• Rooms* Cottages* Kitchenettes est • 2 bedroom, 2 beds ea. room rateBs in thke ic Pick wa! • 1 bedroom, 2 beds ea. room are • Restaurant on site • Fireplace in cabins Little Andy’s • WiFi • ELECTRICAL BOAT HOOKUPS • COVERED PARKING
Sportsmans Lodge
Our rooms, include singles, doubles, kings, king suites, executive suites and cottage.
731-689-3750 7255 Hwy 57 • Counce, Tn. 38326
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1411 W. QUITMAN STREET IUKA, MS 38852 662-4239-9039
This pharmacy is independently owned and operated under a license from Health Mart Systems. Inc. EXPLORING PICKWICK
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YOUR LAKE HOME CHURCH AWAY FROM HOME
Sunday 10am @FreddyT's Pickwick Lake, TN
Grace Chapel Pickwick is a come as you are gathering of believers where everyone is welcome. COMMUNITY Y BASED CHRIIST-C CENTER RED CASUAL CONTEMPORARY Sunday worsh hip begins at 10am with praise music leed by David Duncan. Children and youth are dismissed to their classes just before Pastor Don Elliott brings us the Word. Nursery is available from 9:45-11:15am. Come early for coffee and donuts!
V i s it and f ol l ow u s on f ac e book or o ur we bs i te t o f in d out more about events, small groups, bible study, y o u th t r i p s , s p e ci a l s e r vi ce s , m u s i c a n d mo r e !
Saved by grace, through faith...Eph.2:8
GraceChapelPickwick.com
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FREDDY T'S RESTAURANT 1/2 off appetizer restaurant dine-in only
MILKSHAKE S
one per table
expires 12/31/2019
SHAVED ICE
1/2 off the Ultimate Shake one per customer expires 12/31/2019
HAND DIPPED ICE CREAM Open: Tuesday - Thursday 11 am - 8 pm Friday & Saturday 11 am - 10 pm Sunday 11 am - 8 pm Monday Closed
Beside Freddy T's in the old bank building. Dine-in, carry-out or drive thru.
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FREE LOADER • NO DOWN PAYMENT • LOW RATES
617 Hwy 72, Iuka, MS 38852 662-205-6469
HWY 25 South Iuka, MS 38852 662-424-0025
www.sidstrading.com 100
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