About

Home to the tallest waterfall east of the Rockies, the Fall Creek Falls Recreation Corridor offers a rare blend of natural beauty, rural charm, and deep-rooted heritage on the Cumberland Plateau.

About Spencer

Nestled in the heart of the Cumberland Plateau, Fall Creek Falls Recreation Corridor is a scenic escape defined by rolling mountain ridges, deep forested hollows, sparkling waterways, and some of Tennessee’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Today, the area is best known as the home of Fall Creek Falls State Park—Tennessee’s largest and most visited state park—drawing hikers, waterfall chasers, campers, and outdoor adventurers from across the country to the tallest free-falling waterfall east of the Rockies in North America,. With quiet rural roads, panoramic overlooks, and a landscape shaped by centuries of flowing water and shifting stone, the county offers an authentic, slow-paced retreat where nature truly has its way. Visitors can explore miles of trails, winding rivers, historic communities, and hidden gems that showcase the beauty and character of the Fall Creek Falls Recreation Corridor.

Beyond its celebrated natural attractions, Van Buren County continues to embody the warmth, heritage, and hospitality that define small-town Tennessee. The community is rich with local culture—from farmers, artisans, and musicians to family-owned shops and beloved gathering places. Agriculture remains a cornerstone of the region, blending seamlessly with outdoor recreation and heritage tourism to create a destination where traditions are preserved and shared proudly. Whether you’re wandering scenic backroads, experiencing local festivals, or enjoying the friendly charm of Spencer, Van Buren County offers an immersive experience rooted in authenticity and the enduring spirit of the Cumberland Plateau.

Our History

Van Buren County’s history is deeply tied to the rugged landscape of the Cumberland Plateau and the resilient people who shaped life here long before modern roads and recreation brought visitors to the region. Settled in the early 1800s, the county was officially formed in 1840 and named in honor of President Martin Van Buren. Early residents—many of whom traveled through the challenging mountain terrain by wagon or horseback—built their livelihoods through farming, timber work, mill operations, and small trade communities. These early settlers lived closely with the land, developing a culture defined by resourcefulness, craftsmanship, and strong community ties. The area’s natural resources, including its rich forests, limestone gorges, and flowing creeks, influenced both daily life and local industry for generations.

The creation of Fall Creek Falls State Park in the 1930s marked a transformative chapter in the county’s history. After years of devastating flooding and land loss, the federal government purchased the eroded acreage, and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and Works Progress Administration (WPA) began restoring the land, building roads, cabins, trails, and structures that still shape the park today. When Tennessee assumed management in the 1940s, Fall Creek Falls grew into a nationally recognized destination, bringing new opportunities for tourism, outdoor recreation, and economic growth to Van Buren County. Today, the county’s history remains visible in its preserved historic sites, Appalachian heritage, and the enduring pride of a community rooted in the past while looking toward the future.