Supporters of Pinson Mounds help park reps exceed their fundraising goal

By Sabrina Bates

Staff Writer

The results are in and thanks to the efforts of supporters, Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park surpassed its goal in this year’s My TN State Parks fundraiser.

Tennessee State Parks were grouped into four regions by geographic location in this year’s annual fundraiser hosted by the State Parks Conservatory. Pinson Mounds ranked 8th out of 14 parks in West Tennessee, after results were posted Monday.

This friendly competition held annually in April gives supporters a chance to “vote” for their favorite Tennessee State Park through online donations. Pinson’s representatives set a goal of $1,000 for this year’s fundraiser. Final results showed supporters raising $1,278 overall for Pinson Mounds, located in Madison County.

All 57 state parks raised more than $300; 52 parks raised more than $500 and 42 parks raised more than $1,000. Thirty-five state parks met or exceeded their goals. There were 33 state parks that raised more this year than in 2023. Five parks saw more than $5,000 in donations. Among those five was Paris Landing State Park in Paris, which earned the top spot in the West category with $7,267 in donations.

More than 1,500 people donated in the My TN State Park fundraiser, helping to raise more than $138,000 for the state parks, exceeding the $120,000 overall goal. 

Last year, Pinson received $1,637.51 in donations. Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park was able to use donations from the 2023 My TN State Park Fundraiser to enhance park signage, providing clearer and more informative communication. This year, park reps plan to continue this valuable work with new signage in the Whorled Sunflower area and at the Medicine Wheel. They also hope to add native plants to enhance the overall aesthetic seen at the Medicine Wheel.

There is no cost to visit Pinson Mounds Archaeological State Park. Activities are planned throughout the year, with little to no cost to participate. Through Oct. 31, Pinson Mounds is open daily from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. The park is located at 460 Ozier Rd., Pinson.

Sabrina Bates, sabrina@richardsonmediagroup.net