Stones River National Cemetery is located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, adjacent to Stones River National Battlefield. The cemetery is a final resting place for thousands of Union soldiers who lost their lives during the Battle of Stones River in December 1862.
The historical background of Stones River National Cemetery dates back to the American Civil War. The Battle of Stones River, also known as the Second Battle of Murfreesboro, was fought from December 31, 1862, to January 2, 1863. It resulted in a crucial Union victory over Confederate forces, though both sides suffered heavy casualties.
The cemetery was established in 1865 to honor the fallen Union soldiers. After the war, soldiers who were buried on the battlefield and in nearby cemeteries were reinterred at Stones River National Cemetery. Today, the cemetery serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought during this pivotal moment in American history.
Visitors to Stones River National Cemetery can explore the grounds and pay their respects to the brave soldiers laid to rest there. The cemetery features rows of white tombstones arranged in a neat and orderly fashion, creating a solemn and peaceful atmosphere. Many visitors also take the opportunity to reflect on the historical significance of the site and the impact of the Civil War on the nation.
Adjacent to the cemetery is the Stones River National Battlefield, which offers additional historical appeal. Visitors can take self-guided or ranger-led tours of the battlefield, which includes preserved or reconstructed earthworks, monuments, and interpretive panels providing insights into the battle's events. The battlefield also has several hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore the landscape and gain a deeper understanding of the military tactics and challenges faced during the battle.
Nearby attractions include the Discovery Center at Murfree Spring, a children's museum focused on science, culture, and history, and the Oaklands Historic House Museum, which showcases life in Murfreesboro during the Civil War era. Visitors can also enjoy various outdoor activities in nearby parks, such as hiking, picnicking, and boating.
Overall, Stones River National Cemetery in Tennessee offers a poignant and educational experience for visitors interested in the Civil War and American history. Immersed in the tranquil surroundings, one can reflect on the sacrifices made by brave soldiers and appreciate the legacy they left behind.
Stones River National Cemetery is nestled in the heart of the state of Tennessee. Located in the city of Murfreesboro, this sacred burial ground sits peacefully on the banks of the meandering Stones River. The cemetery's geographical location offers a serene and picturesque setting, surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. Its proximity to the bustling city center adds to the unique charm, providing visitors with a tranquil retreat just a short distance away from urban life. The strategic location of Stones River National Cemetery within the state ensures both accessibility and an immersive historical experience, as it stands as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made during the Civil War.
1563 North Thompson LaneMurfreesboro, TN 37129Driving DirectionsPhone: 615-893-9501Web: Link
The best time to visit Stones River National Cemetery would be in either April or October. In April, the average maximum temperature is 71°F with a minimum of 46°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. The average monthly precipitation is 5.4 inches, which is slightly higher but manageable. October also offers comfortable temperatures, with an average maximum of 73°F and a minimum of 47°F. The average monthly precipitation is 4.1 inches, making it a suitable time to explore the cemetery without encountering large crowds.
Some of the activities you can do in Stones River National Cemetery are: Food Picnicking Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Hands-On Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Arts and Culture Biking Road Biking Hiking Fishing Living History Self-Guided Tours - Auto Historic Weapons Demonstration Arts and Crafts Cultural Demonstrations Theater
Learn about these topics at Stones River National Cemetery: Animals Birds Geology Arts Transportation Fish Tortoises and Turtles Fire Military African American Heritage Burial, Cemetery and Gravesite Grasslands Scenic Views Forts Battlefields Monuments and Memorials Wars and Conflicts Civil War Enslavement National Cemetery Trains and Railroads Reconstruction
The park visitor center and restrooms are open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm in Spring and Summer and 9am to 4:00 pm from November 1 through February 29 in fall and winter. The visitor center is closed on Thanksgiving and December 25th.
The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Visitor Center.
This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).
When you stay at Embassy Suites by Hilton Nashville SE Murfreesboro in Murfreesboro, you'll be near the airport, within a 15-minute walk of Rutherford County Convention and Visitors Bureau and The Avenue Murfreesboro. Featured amenities include wired Internet access (surcharge), a 24-hour business center, and express check-out. Planning an event in Murfreesboro? This hotel has facilities measuring 43000 square feet (3870 square meters), including conference space. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 1200 Conference Center Blvd, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
Web: Link
A stay at Candlewood Suites Murfreesboro, an IHG Hotel places you in the heart of Murfreesboro, within a 15-minute walk of Saint Thomas Heart - Rutherford and Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 850 N Thompson Ln, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
Web: Link
Located in Murfreesboro, Residence Inn Nashville SE/Murfreesboro is in the business district, within a 15-minute walk of Rutherford County Convention and Visitors Bureau and The Avenue Murfreesboro. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Planning an event in Murfreesboro? This hotel has facilities measuring 500 square feet (46 square meters), including a meeting room. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1409 Conference Center Blvd, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
Web: Link
Located in Murfreesboro, Hilton Garden Inn Murfreesboro is within a 15-minute walk of Rutherford County Convention and Visitors Bureau and The Avenue Murfreesboro. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-in, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1335 Conference Center Blvd, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
Web: Link
Located in Murfreesboro, Holiday Inn Murfreesboro, an IHG Hotel is in a rural location, within a 15-minute walk of Rutherford County Convention and Visitors Bureau and The Avenue Murfreesboro. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1453 Silohill Lane, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
Web: Link
With a stay at Home2 Suites by Hilton Murfreesboro in Murfreesboro, you'll be within a 10-minute walk of Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital and Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 909 Thompson Lane Building A, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
Web: Link
With a stay at Courtyard Nashville SE/Murfreesboro in Murfreesboro, you'll be a 3-minute walk from Rutherford County Convention and Visitors Bureau and 10 minutes by foot from The Avenue Murfreesboro. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, express check-in, and express check-out. Planning an event in Murfreesboro? This hotel has facilities measuring 1944 square feet (181 square meters), including conference space. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1306 Greshampark Dr, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
Web: Link
With a stay at Tru by Hilton Murfreesboro in Murfreesboro, you'll be within a 10-minute walk of Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital and Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 909 Thompson Lane, Building B, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
Web: Link
With a stay at Staybridge Suites Nashville Se Murfreesboro, an IHG Hotel in Murfreesboro, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Rutherford County Convention and Visitors Bureau and The Avenue Murfreesboro. Featured amenities include a business center, a safe deposit box at the front desk, and an elevator. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1233 FORTRESS BOULEVARD, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
Web: Link
Located in Murfreesboro, Hyatt Place Murfreesboro is within a 5-minute drive of The Avenue Murfreesboro and Rutherford County Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Address: 2108 LOTHRIC WAY, Murfreesboro, Tennessee 37129
Web: Link
| Date issued | Details |
|---|---|
| 2026-03-02 | Stones River National Battlefield Launches Centennial Logo to Mark 100 Years of Preservation and Remembrance On March 3, 2026, Stones River National Battlefield will officially launch a limited-time centennial logo to mark the battlefield’s 100th anniversary. More |
| 2026-02-27 | Prescribed Fire Planned for Stones River National Battlefield Stones River National Battlefield will conduct prescribed burns across 40 acres at Fortress Rosecrans and Redoubt Brannan. Some areas of the park will be closed during times needed to complete the burns. The visitor center and main park areas will remain open during regular hours of 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. More |
| 2026-01-23 | Weather Impacts to Park Operations at Stones River National Battlefield Park closed on Saturday January 24 due to forecast of dangerous winter weather conditions. More |
| 2026-01-06 | Stones River National Battlefield Launches “Stories of Service and Sacrifice” for America 250 Stories of Service and Sacrifice is an America 250 initiative highlighting 250 veterans buried in Stones River National Cemetery. More |
| 2025-12-04 | Battle of Stones River 163rd Anniversary Programs Talks, walks, tours and demonstrations highlighting the events that took place on the battlefield 163 years ago. More |
| 2025-12-03 | Stones River National Cemetery to Host Wreaths Across America Event on December 13, 2025 Remember, honor, and teach by placing wreaths at the graves of those who served our nation in its armed forces. More |