On the Tennessee River, where Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi meet, sits the rural southern paradise of Hardin County. Rich in history and flavor, where lake days, catfish plates, and Civil War landmarks create a rhythm all their own. Paddle the cove, fish from the shoreline, or explore backroads and battlefields — Hardin County invites you to slow down and stay a while.

Pickwick Lake is the crown jewel of Hardin County's outdoor recreation scene. Created by the Tennessee Valley Authority's Pickwick Landing Dam in 1938, the lake stretches across the Tennessee-Alabama-Mississippi border and offers some of the finest freshwater fishing in the South.

The lake is particularly renowned for its bass fishing — both largemouth and smallmouth bass thrive in Pickwick's clear, deep waters. Catfish, crappie, and striped bass round out the fishing opportunities, and the lake's numerous coves and creek arms provide endless exploration for anglers and paddlers.

Pickwick Landing State Park anchors the Tennessee side of the lake with a full-service resort, marina, golf course, and campground. The park's restaurant serves fresh catfish and other Southern classics with views of the lake.

Hardin County is home to Shiloh National Military Park, the site of one of the Civil War's bloodiest battles. The April 1862 battle resulted in nearly 24,000 casualties over two days of fighting, and the park preserves the battlefield in remarkable condition.

The park's visitor center features excellent exhibits and a film that provides context for the battle, and the driving tour covers the key positions and turning points of the engagement. The Shiloh National Cemetery, adjacent to the battlefield, is one of the most moving Civil War cemeteries in the country.

For more information, visit visithardintn.com.