T.o. fuller state park was the first state park east of the mississippi river open to african americans and only the second in the nation.   the park was later changed from shelby bluffs to t.o. fuller state park in 1942 in honor of dr. thomas o. fuller who spent his life empowering and educating african americans.

Warriors' path state park was named for the park's proximity to the ancient war and trading path used by the cherokee. since that time, the park land has known a long history of travelers, and is still a pathway for modern-day outdoor enthusiasts. the 950-acre area was acquired from the tennessee valley authority is 1952, to serve the people who live in or visit this section of northeast tennessee. it is situated on the shores of tva's patrick henry reservoir on the holston river.