About The Friends
WHO WE ARE
The Friends of Harpeth River State Park is a nonprofit 501(c)3 formed in 2015 to inspire support for one of Tennessee's most visited parks. We are 100% volunteer-powered and welcome the community to become involved.
Did you know that hundreds of thousands of people enjoy the park sites every year? Folks visit to learn more about Native American history and archeology, to spend time enjoying the river from one of nine access points, and to hike or fish or picnic. Harpeth River State Park offers something year-round for everyone.
WHAT WE DO
We exist to capture the attention of our local community and all those visitors to help inspire support. That could mean tax-deductible contributions used for park improvements and programs. That support also includes hundreds of volunteer hours every year planting native species, cleaning up the trails and river-entry/exit sites, plus helping with educational activities.
The draw of visitors to Middle TN is strong and growing, and our local businesses are thriving. That means HRSP is busy year-round with lots of traffic to all of its nine sites.. Do you want to help preserve and protect the park? To care for its resources and help be a steward of the land? If you'd like to get involved, we hope you'll take a moment to see the options on our 'Get Involved' page and let us know what interests you. Plus, subscribe to our newsletter -- we'll never spam you or share your information. We are always looking for new members to join our Board of Directors, as well. If you have interest, please contact us at info@HarpethFriends.org.
We hope to see you soon at the park!
The Friends' Board of Directors
Board Chair
Sandy Obodzinski
"I have loved TN State Parks since moving from the Midwest in 2005. And now, getting to explore and help my 'backyard' park is a joy beyond words! And...the spring ephemerals!"
Board Vice Chair
Glenn Remick
Glenn is out enjoying the park! More soon...
Board Treasurer
Ron Fortenberry
"I have had a love for being around and on rivers since I was young. I was also fortunate to grow up with the Harpeth. The Harpeth River State Park is one of the most unique with its multiple sights and and vast history. I feel fortunate to have it in our community."
Board Secretary
Laurie Gilbert
"Early morning walks with my husband and dogs on trails at Gossett Tract have been among my favorite park activities over the 35 years that I have lived near the Narrows of the Harpeth. Hearing the Field Sparrows, Indigo Bunngs, Eastern Towhees and other feathered spring visitors are a joy."
Board Member
Richard Hoover
"I enjoy the serenity and natural beauty of the park and of the Harpeth River meandering through it. I am also mindful of the rich history of the park from its early mound builders to the achievements of a rich industrialist, Montgomery Bell."
Board Member, Past Chair
Alan Housholder
"I enjoy hiking at Hidden Lake and canoeing the Harpeth with my children and grandchildren."
Board Member
Diane Schlaufman
Diane is out enjoying the Park. More soon...
Board Member
Lori Munkeboe
Harpeth River State Park offers a variety of truly amazing experiences - from the history of Newsom’s Mill, to watching the moon rise at Mound Bottom, to walking the Lake Trail, to paddling the Harpeth River, this park has it all. I am so excited to be a part!
Board Member
Chuck Neese
"For 30 years I’ve lived on the banks of a creek that flows across my front yard & into the Harpeth River. I enjoy the fascinating history of the Harpeth River Valley."
Board Member
Kimberly Trama
Kim is out enjoying the park! More soon...
Board Member
You?!
If you are interested in learning more about board service, please contact us at info@HarpethFriends.org.
