Stones River National Battlefield

A fierce battle took place at Stones River between December 31, 1862 and January 2, 1863. General Bragg's Confederates withdrew after the battle, allowing General Rosecrans and the Union army to control middle Tennessee. Although the battle was tactically indecisive, it provided a much-needed boost to the North after the defeat at Fredericksburg. Lincoln later wrote to General Rosecrans, "I can never forget [...] you gave us a hard-earned victory, which had there been a defeat instead, the nation could scarcely have lived over."

The 570-acre National Battlefield includes Stones River National Cemetery, established in 1865, with more than 6,000 Union graves; and the Hazen Brigade Monument, believed to be the oldest Civil War monument still standing in its original location. Portions of Fortress Rosecrans, a large earthen fort constructed after the battle, still stand and are preserved and interpreted by the National Park Service. Much of the nearly 4,000-acre battlefield is in private hands.

3501 Old Nashville Highway
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
(615) 893-9501 - Headquarters
(615) 893-9501 - Visitor Information

By Plane
Nashville is served by a commercial airport which is within 30 miles of the Battlefield.

By Car
From I-24 take exit 78B. Follow Highway 96 to the intersection with U.S. Highway 41/70. Turn left and take Hwy 41/70 north to Thompson Lane. Turn left on Thompson Lane. Exit to Old Nashville Highway and follow signs to visitor center.

Getting Around
Allow two to four hours for a visit to both the Battlefield and Fortress Rosecrans. If you wish to tour the battle sites outside the park boundary, allow more time.

Summer is hot and humid with highs in the 90s. Spring and fall pleasant. Winter temperatures are variable, but temperatures may drop below freezing with occasional snow.

Here are some of the activities that are offered at Mount Rainier National Park.

• Auto Touring
• Biking
• Educational Programs
• Fishing
• Hiking

Recommended Activities
Visitor Center, Exhibits:
Visitor center contains a small museum and slide program about the battle, along with a Eastern National bookstore.

Trails, Roads:
The battlefield may be toured by car or foot along a loop tour road. The tour continues to several sites along city and county roads. There are short foot trails at several of the tour stops.

Programs, Activities:
From late May through mid-November ranger walks and talks are presented daily. On summer, and occasional spring and fall weekends, living history programs are presented.