A Week in Wayne County with Hey Y'all

The Bridges in Waynesboro, TN

For many years, visiting the stunning double-span natural bridges in rural Waynesboro was an opportunity only available to guests of the Tennessee Fitness Spa. Now, thanks to the new owners of the property, Stan and Winetta Bevis, The Bridges is a destination open to the public. Located just a short distance from the Natchez Trace Parkway, this natural wonder has tempted us for several years. Finally, we loaded up the camper and made the drive out to beautiful rural Waynesboro. 

First, I have to talk about the amazing range of accommodations they have available for all kinds of travelers. They have multiple cozy cabins, campsites, and RV hookups. There are 6 spacious cabins with stunning views of Forty-Eight Creek, or you can choose from their 6 primitive campsites or 6 water and electric hook ups for campers. Our preferred method of transportation is our camper, so of course that was our choice. All of the lodging is nice and central, with easy access to the dining hall, ice cave, fire pits, and of course, the bridges themselves. 

The property also includes beautiful hiking trails, as well as an exercise facility, swimming pool, hot tub, and plenty of swings and rocking chairs. Our personal favorites were the rocking chairs; we enjoyed keeping an eye out for wildlife among the stunning views. 

The history of the property is quite rich; we recommend taking the time to really dive into it while you visit! For example, the name "ice cave" actually stems from the use of spring-fed caves (like the one on property!) to keep things cold before the invention of refrigeration. The site of The Bridges is also where marauders who robbed those travelling on the Trace hid out and is believed to have strong connections to the Native American tribes that once occupied the area as well. One of the most interesting historical tidbits is the site of David Crockett’s Pulpit Rock, located just to the left of the first arch. This is where Mr. Crockett gave his first political speech, and his final speech on his way to The Alamo. If only these rocks could talk- and tell us all they’ve seen! 

We are still completely in awe of this magnificent sight in Tennessee. Seeing the only double-span natural bridges in the world is nothing short of breathtaking! The new owners have been putting up safety rails, and we recommend treading carefully and watching your step while exploring the unbelievable setting. 

The true gems at The Bridges are the staff- Vicky Petty, Cassidy, Mr. Steve, Matthew, and Sandra all work diligently and cheerfully to ensure their guests are comfortable and well cared for. The on-site Alpine Restaurant, run by Sandra, provides a spot for guests to enjoy a delicious meal with a spectacular view of Forty-Eight Creek. The restaurant is open Thursday through Saturday each week- be sure to stop by! 

If you’re looking for a spot for a special event, wedding, anniversary, reunion, corporate event, birthday, or just a relaxing weekend, be sure to contact Vickie so she can help you plan your stay at The Bridges. Follow along on their Facebook and website to keep up with all the wonderful things they do! 

The Wayne County Welcome Center in Collinwood, TN

Photo: Morrison Visuals

As you are traveling along The Natchez Trace, don’t miss stopping in Collinwood, TN for the Wayne County Welcome Center. Located just off the Parkway, it’s a very convenient stop for information about Wayne County and beyond- perfect for travelers of the Trace! The Visitor Center is staffed with knowledgeable folks who know the area like the back of their hand. They can point you to historic sites, great places to grab a bite, and all kinds of other destinations! They also have a great selection of printed brochures and handouts to help you on your journey.

With its convenient location, the Welcome Center invites you to stroll the sidewalks of Collinwood to stretch your legs. Don’t miss the nearby Veterans Park, or the Tennessee murals located just a few feet away. Collinwood is a beautiful town and a very welcoming community, so don’t miss the opportunity to visit. 

At the Wayne County Welcome Center, there is always a fresh pot of coffee to share, comfortable seating, and clean restrooms, making it a haven for weary travelers. Add it to your next road trip itinerary!

JEET CHET? Emerald's Restaurant in Waynesboro, TN

On the square in Waynesboro, TN, directly across from the courthouse, is Emerald’s Restaurant. This is a great place to grab a window seat and enjoy your meal along with a view of the downtown square, perfect for people watching. Emerald’s Restaurant opened in 1977 and has served up great food and a relaxed atmosphere ever since. 

When we visited, Kayonna was our incredibly informative, friendly, and cheerful waitress. She was more than happy to help us choose what to eat when we were incredibly indecisive. They just have such a great menu with so much to offer! We landed on what I believe to be some really great choices. DanO had the Southwest chicken, and I chose the Buffalo chicken. We highly recommend adding the delicious mushrooms to your meal. 

We truly love visiting the town of Waynesboro, it has so much to discover. Be sure to fuel up before your adventures in Wayne County at Emerald’s Restaurant!

Remember: Don't just travel Tennessee, EXPERIENCE TENNESSEE!