Backyard Terrors Dinosaur Park, A Prehistoric Surprise in the Hills of Tennessee, TN

While on a hiking trip through Eastern Tennessee, I stumbled upon a hidden gem that instantly transported me back to the days of my children’s dinosaur obsession: Backyard Terrors Dinosaur Park in Bluff City. As soon as I read about it, I knew I had to visit—and share the experience.

When my boys were little, dinosaurs ruled our world. We devoured books about them, watched The Land Before Time on repeat, and even tolerated a fair amount of Barney. They could rattle off names like Parasaurolophus and Ankylosaurus with ease. So discovering a park filled with life-sized dinosaur replicas felt like stepping into a time capsule.

🏞️ Walking with Dinosaurs

I visited the park on a crisp Tuesday morning in late October 2025. As I wandered along the Mesozoic Nature Trail, I was surrounded by towering, hand-crafted dinosaurs nestled among the trees. The experience was immersive —each sculpture seemed to breathe life into the prehistoric past. It was easy to imagine these giants roaming the Earth millions of years ago.

The park’s creator, Chris Kastner, built his first dinosaur in 2007. What began as a backyard project quickly evolved into a full-fledged attraction. According to its map, the park features over 90 life-sized dinosaurs, all meticulously researched and constructed. Each one takes about a month to complete, and his creative process—detailed on the park’s website—is as fascinating as the creatures he brings to life.

🧒 A Kid’s Dream (and a Grandparent’s, Too)

It’s no surprise that children adore this place. Beyond the awe-inspiring dinos, there’s a fossil dig site where young paleontologists can unearth their own treasures, plus a playground to burn off any extra energy. I couldn’t help but imagine the joy on my grandbaby’s face when he’s old enough to visit. This park is tailor-made for family adventures.

💡 Know Before You Go

Location: 1065 Walnut Grove Rd, Bluff City, TN
Hours: Open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM
Admission: Free, but a minimum $5 donation is encouraged to support the park’s upkeep

Backyard Terrors is more than just a roadside attraction—it’s a labor of love, a tribute to imagination, and a place where learning and play collide. Whether you’re a dino-loving kid or a nostalgic adult, this park is a delightful detour worth taking.

So pack a snack, bring your curiosity, and don’t forget to leave a donation. You’ll be supporting a one-of-a-kind experience that’s as educational as it is enchanting.

Reference Backyard Terrors Dinosaur Park Web Site, Facebook Page