First it was guns being allowed in Tennessee State Parks due to a bill passed in 2009 giving gun permit holders the right to carry their weapon in the parks.  Now a new rule allowing liquor into the parks on a restricted basis has been adopted and only at the State Parks where alcohol is legal.  This is just a revision of the current alcohol policy already in place.  Some Parks serve alcohol now at their restaurants and golf courses.

The state’s department of Environment and Conservation passed a rule this week that will allow residents to bring their own alcohol and consume them in open spaces. The areas where they are allowed to drink will be up to the discretion of individual park managers. Kelly Brockman, TDEC Director of Communications, said they are implementing the change as a response to the public’s high demand for the rule.  Cabin renters and campers can have alcohol within the confines of the cabins and camp sites. A permit must be applied for to have alcohol consumed during an event such as a wedding or family gathering at a shelter.

State officials say the rule will be in effect starting in June.