The following categories of basic park regulations answers some of the most common questions posed by visitors to Fort Donelson.

 

Natural and Cultural Features:

Do not destroy, injure, or remove plants or other natural features. Reasonable quantities of edible berries and fruits and nuts may be gathered for personal use daily.

 

The harassing, injuring, or killing of any wildlife is prohibited.  Help wildlife remain wild by never feeding any animal.

 

Possessing, destroying, injuring, defacing, removing, digging, or otherwise disturbing cultural and archeological resources is prohibited. Possesion or using a metal detector on the Battlefield or Cemetery is prohibited.

 

Driving in Fort Donelson National Battlefield or Cemetery

Speed limits and all other state traffic laws are enforced on roads within Fort Donelson National Battlefield and Cemetery. Motorcycle helmets are required.

 

Pets

Pets are allowed within Fort Donelson, however, in order to protect your pet and the parks wildlife, all pets must be kept on a leash (no longer then 6 feet) at all times.

Firearms
Firearms, including reproductions, can not be carried at Fort Donelson National Battlefield or Cemetery. If transporting firearms, they must be unloaded rendered temporarily inoperable.

Federal Laws

Laws are created by Congress and establish the highest order of legal authority over national parks.

           

Many laws, including the 1916 Organic Act that created the National Park Service, affect all areas managed by the National Park Service.

 

Fort Donelson enabling legislation provides specific instructions and guidance on how the park must be managed.

 

NPS Policies

Service-wide policy for the National Park Service is developed by the Office of Policy with public input and in accordance with applicable laws. Policies dictate many of the overall directions and

procedures used by all parks.

 

Park Regulations

The Code of Federal Regulations 36 CFR parts 1-199 and the Park Compendium (under revision) provide a complete listing of park rules and regulations. These most specific rules are developed

with public input to implement applicable law.