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Brushy Mountain Distillery
About Brushy
General FAQ
When is the prison open for tours?
Guide-led group tours are available prior to the opening of the prison during our regular operating season for groups with a minimum of 15 people at 9 and 9:30a.m. Guided tours will be led by either a former prison guard or former non-violent inmate. One week's notice is required to book guide-led tours; however, capacity is limited and tours are subject to availability For more information, you may schedule a group tour here.
How should we dress?
In the fall and winter months, you should dress warmly. Temperatures inside the prison can be up to 10 degrees cooler than outside. During summer months, normal summer apparel is fine. Please wear good, sturdy footwear. For your safety and comfort, walking or running shoes, boots, etc. are preferred.
Do you have a restaurant?
The Warden's Table Restaurant serves up a variety of tasty Southern cooking from classic BBQ plates and loaded potatoes to BBQ nachos and cheeseburgers, as well as refreshments. Menu changes daily. View operating hours for The Warden’s Table Restaurant.
Parolee’s Restaurant & Store serves appetizers, salads, pizza, and sandwiches. The full menu can be found here.
Where can I purchase Brushy Mountain tee shirts and souvenirs?
You can purchase Brushy Mountain souvenirs right now from our gift shop at the prison. View operating hours for our on-premise gift shop.
Is Brushy really haunted?
Brushy was open for a long time, and despite not carrying out any executions, more than a few people met an untimely end here. Lots of activity has been witnessed on the grounds and in the corridors of Brushy. Ultimately, that's for you to decide, so why not schedule your investigation today!
Is Brushy pet friendly?
Pets are not permitted on tours at this time. Only service animals will be permitted.
How can I schedule a paranormal investigation?
Paranormal tours take place after hours, and need to be scheduled in advance. You may schedule a paranormal investigation tour here.
Are you currently hiring?
Yes, we are taking applications and hiring for the gift shop and restaurant. Please see the Employment Page for more information.
Tours
Are group tours available?
Private guide-led group tours are available prior to the opening of the prison during our regular operating season for groups with a minimum of 15 people at 9 and 9:30a.m. For groups under 15, we do offer the option to book online, through our website, every Sunday of each month at 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time for the Public Guided Tour option. Guided tours will be led by either a former prison guard or former non-violent inmate. One week's notice is required to book a private guide-led tour; however, capacity is limited and tours are subject to availability. For more information, you may schedule a group tour here.
Why aren’t group tours available throughout the day?
Due to the size of the hallways and rooms at Brushy, it would be disruptive to the groups to have to pass through narrow corridors and stairwells during regular visiting hours with other guests. The private 9:30 tours offers your group a unique opportunity to visit and experience Brushy without any distractions.
How can I take a paranormal investigation tour?
Paranormal tours take place after hours, and need to be scheduled in advance. You may schedule a paranormal investigation tour here.
Are there headsets available?
Headsets are available for the guided group tours so that participants can hear the guide.
Headsets are not available for individual tours at this time. However, they will become available in the near future, and we will announce this inclusion to the tour on the site and our Facebook page at that time.
What can I expect on the tour?
The tour is self-guided, and former prison guards and former non-violent inmates will be nearby to answer any questions. There are over 30 individual stations containing the story of what happened there.
How long will the tour take?
Tour times will vary. Tours are self-guided. Generally, tours run about an hour to an hour-and-a half and there's an 18-minute documentary at the end of the tour in the theater next to the museum.
Will there be anyone there to answer questions?
Yes. Former prison guards and former non-violent inmates are stationed throughout the prison to answer any questions or share a brief story.
Do you offer military or senior discounts?
We do offer senior discounts of 10% off for those 65 and over, as well as discounts to currently serving members of the armed forces, reserves and national guard with a valid and current ID card.
Can I bring my pet with me?
Pets are not permitted on tours at this time. Only service animals will be permitted
Concerts & Events FAQ
What’s the main venue like?
The concert stage and viewing areas are located behind the main prison wall. Yes, the same area known as “The Yard” where Tennessee’s most hardened criminals used to spend time.
When you arrive you must present a valid ID and your ticket before entering.
What to pack?
Be prepared and be sure to bring everything you need. The location is relatively remote, so running to Wal-Mart to pick up something you forgot isn’t going to happen.
Chairs and anything to make for a comfortable experience
Rain gear — for some reason, as soon as you forget it, it will rain
Comfortable shoes — it's a huge place, so you will be walking (a lot)
Bug spray (it is the south after all)
Suncreen (it is the south after all)
Hat for shade, or you can buy one from our awesome gift shop
Sunglasses
Extra car/truck keys — more than one set is never a bad idea
Is there a minimum age requirement?
Minimum age requirements vary by event. Check out the event’s page for details.
Can I drive in and park?
Yes. Parking on-site will be available at no charge. Parking your CAR, PICKUP TRUCK, MOTORCYCLE, or SIDE-BY-SIDE will be about as easy as it gets. Once you arrive, you'll be directed by our super-friendly parking folks to a spot that's just right. Carpooling is encouraged.
Lost & Found
Let’s face it, sometimes when we’re having fun we lose things. It happens so don’t panic. The Lost & Found area can be found in the old LAUNDRY BUILDING. The nice thing about that building, you’ll walk right past it coming into the concert venue and once again when you’re exiting after the concert is over.
Arrival tips & patience
Just like the law enforcement officers in your hometown, our police expect you to obey the highway safety laws, and they’re prepared to enforce them. They’re especially strict about open container violations, so think, do you really want to start the weekend behind bars? After all you’re headed to a decommissioned prison to have fun. You don’t want to end up in an active prison not having fun and ending up with a very unflattering nickname.
Please stay in your car, especially when you’re waiting in line to enter the Brushy grounds. Brushy used to be a very unfriendly place. It’s a super friendly place now so don’t ruin for yourself, your friends and everyone else. Besides, someone might post your shenanigans to social media and the world will know what a fool you can be. Don’t cut in line. It’s a concert, and lines are inevitable, so be prepared to deal with it like you live in the greatest place in the galaxy.
Parking
Parking: FREE
Parking your CAR, PICKUP TRUCK, MOTORCYCLE, or SIDE-BY-SIDE will be about as easy as it gets. Once you arrive, you'll be directed by our super-friendly parking folks to a spot that's just right. Carpooling is encouraged.
Where is Brushy Located?
9182 Highway 116, Petros, TN 37845
The Historic Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary is located in Petros, TN. Brushy is about 16 miles from Oak Ridge, 40 miles from Knoxville, 83 miles from Chattanooga, and 150 miles from Nashville.
Will ATMs be available?
Yes, but only one. It is recommended to bring cash since all beer tents and food vendors are cash only.
What can/can’t I bring?
Everyone on-site, all of their belongings and vehicles are subject to search upon entry. The list below will help you know what you can and cannot bring onto the Brushy Mountain grounds.
Concert Venue
YES One (1) Original Sealed Water Bottle (smaller than 1L, please)
YES Clear Bags made of clear plastic or clear vinyl which do not exceed 20" x 15" x 9"
YES Waist Pack, Fanny Packs, or Similar
YES Small Clutch Bags up to 4.5" x 5.5"
YES Empty Hydration Packs with a gear capacity of 2.5L/150 cubic inches with no more than two front pockets (i.e., water bladder + 2 additional front pockets). No larger than 20" x 15" x 9".
YES Blankets
YES Lawn Chair
YES Point and shoot cameras/cameras with detachable lens less than 2" long
NO Totems (you know, those silly signs on poles that get in other peoples way)
NO Food/Drinks, other than water and a small snack (Trail mix, yes. Double cheeseburger, no)
NO Selfie Sticks, Go Pro Sticks, Tripods
NO Outside Alcohol (Alcohol will be sold in venue)
NO Anything that's prohibited elsewhere on festival grounds
NO Coolers
NO Firearms, Knives, or Weapons OF ANY KIND
NO Drones
NO Fireworks
NO Illegal Substances
NO Professional cameras (with detachable lenses longer than 2")
NO Laser pens or similar focused light device
Exit & Re-entry
There will be NO RE-ENTRY. If you leave you will have to purchase another ticket to come back inside the concert venue.
Security & Medical Services
We'll do our best to make sure everyone is safe during the show. On-site security and emergency medical staff will be available during the show day. If you need any assistance, go to the nearest Medical Tent, or ask any Brushy staff member for assistance.
Dealing with traffic
Fill up your tank before getting in line to enter the festival. There are gas stations close, but you don’t want to lose your place. Use the restroom before you arrive. There are no bathrooms in the line of cars. Pack something to snack on and nonalcoholic beverages (see arrival tip #1). Listen to your favorite band, play some trivia and be patient. You’re about to be in a super cool place that only criminals used to experience. You’ll be on-site soon enough.
Will there be alcohol?
Alcohol will be sold at events unless an event specifically states that it will be alcohol-free.
CAMPING
Concert Camping FAQ
Can I camp on the grounds in a van or RV?
No. Only tents are allowed in the designated camping areas.
We will have LIMITED primitive (tent) camping spots available. These are free spots and will be first come/first serve spots. The Brushy Mountain Campground and RV Park will open April 1st and anyone bringing a camper or RV will have to book online prior to arrival to camp overnight. Again, these spots are limited as well so you will want to book early to secure your spot. Once the Campground and free primitive sites are full, you will not be able to tent camp or bring in a RV/camper.
Can I bring a radio or bluetooth speaker?
Yes. But be very mindful of those around you. While you might like a loud Bluetooth speaker kicking a little Jimmy Buffet at 3am, we’re quite positive your neighbors won’t.
What is your vehicle policy?
RVs are not allowed for this specific show. Maybe for the next one, but not this one.
Motorcycles are cool, but please no funny stuff like revving motors, burnouts or impersonations of Evil Knievel. We’ll have designated area just for you to park your sweet ride.
OTHER VEHICLES THAT ARE NOT PERMITTED INCLUDE:
All bicycles or scooters, Segways, Pocket Bikes, skateboards, etc…
Do you have a restaurant and/or a general store on the campgrounds?
Parolee’s Restaurant and General Store will be open special hours (See Parolee’s page for more information)
There will not be any food vendors or alcohol sold in the camping area. There will be food trucks in the concert venue area as well as vendors selling beer.
Do I have to sleep in a tent?
Nope. You can sleep in your car, sleeping bag on the ground under the stars or in a cardboard box. It’s up to you. The last thing anyone wants is you drinking and driving after the show.
Will there be bathrooms and showers?
Yes, there will be port-a-johns.
No, there will not be showers.
Can I bring instruments?
No. We'll have all of the entertainment you'll need on a huge stage for several hours.
Can I have a campfire?
No. Open flames will not be permitted within the campgrounds or anywhere on the Brushy site.
What is your alcohol policy in the camping area?
Each person may bring in 1 case of beer (24 cans), 1.75 liter of hard liquor (no glass), and 1 boxes of wine. Anything over this amount is considered “excessive” and will be confiscated. No kegs are allowed in the campgrounds.
Are there electrical outlets? WIFI?
No to electrical outlets and no to Wi-Fi. There is limited cell service unless you’re on AT&T. For some strange reason AT&T placed a huge cell tower right outside the Brushy gates.
What is your gasoline/propane/charcoal policy?
We are NOT allowing gas powered anything. This includes generators, chain saws, radios (if they exist), toothbrushes, you get the idea…
Additionally we are not allowing propane grills or any other kind of fire in the camping area. This policy may change for future shows, but for this show we’re simply not allowing it.
Dealing with traffic
Fill up your tank before getting in line to enter the festival. There are gas stations close, but you don’t want to lose your place. Use the restroom before you arrive. There are no bathrooms in line of cars. Pack something to snack on and nonalcoholic beverages (see arrival tip #1). Listen to your favorite band, play some trivia and be patient. You’re about to be in a super cool place that only criminals used to experience. You’ll be on-site soon enough.
Where to purchase tees and souvenirs?
Tee shirts and Brushy souvenirs will be available at Parolee’s Restaurant and General Store
What to Pack?
Be prepared and be sure to bring everything you need. The location is relatively remote, so running to Wal-Mart to pick up something you forgot isn’t going to happen.
• Tent and everything that goes with it.
• Sleeping bags and/or beds
• Tarp
• Cooler with ice
• A few gallons of water
• Lantern/flashlight/headlamp (AND extra batteries!)
• Water bottles
• Chairs and anything to make for a comfortable experience
• Rain gear — for some reason, as soon as you forget it, it will rain
• Comfortable shoes — it's a huge place, so you will be walking (a lot)
• Bug spray (it is the south after all)
• Suncreen (it is the south after all)
• Hat for shade, or you can buy one from our awesome gift shop
• Sunglasses
• Trash bags (We don't mind picking up bags. The rest, not so much.)
• Toilet paper (never a bad idea)
• Extra car/truck keys — more than one set is never a bad idea
What can/can’t I bring?
Everyone on-site, all of their belongings and vehicles are subject to search upon entry. The list below will help you know what you can and cannot bring onto the Brushy Mountain grounds.
Campgrounds
YES Alcohol - Each person may bring in 1 case of beer (24 cans), 1.75 liter of hard liquor (no glass), and 1 boxes of wine. Anything over this amount is considered “excessive” and will be confiscated. No kegs are allowed in the campgrounds.
YES Food/Drinks
YES Point and shoot cameras/cameras with detachable lens less than 2" long
YES Tents and everything required to put your tent up
YES Radios, just be mindful of your neighbors
NO Portable Camping Grill Read Our Policy
NO Generator Read Our Policy
NO Glass
NO Kegs
NO Firearms, Knives, or Weapons OF ANY KIND
NO Drones
NO Fireworks
NO Illegal Substances
NO Bicycles or any other 2-wheeled transportation device
NO Professional cameras (with detachable lenses longer than 2")
NO Pets (even really, really tiny ones that tend to be yappers)
NO Glow Sticks
NO Box trucks/trailers
NO Laser pens or similar focused light device
NO Vending (Sharing, yes. Selling, no.)
NO Motorized Tools
Paranormal Investigation FAQ
If I need to cancel my investigation, can I get a refund?
Yes. However, you need to notify us 30 days prior to your scheduled tour. Requests to cancel after 30 days will only be offered an opportunity to reschedule. No exceptions for booking within 30 days of the desired tour date.
We reserve the right to cancel tour dates if a concert or other large event becomes scheduled on the grounds. If this happens, we will reschedule your tour for another date at a discounted rate.
Can I book an investigation more than six months in advance?
You can, but we’d prefer the investigation be booked no more than 6 months before your tour.
Can I still book an investigation if I’m not a member of any paranormal organization?
Yes. You simply come as a citizen vs. an official member of a paranormal group.
Do you book more than one paranormal investigation group on the same night?
In the case of an overnight investigation, which begins at 9:00 pm and ends at 4 am, we book only one.
Can we bring cameras, video cameras, digital recorders, etc.?
Yes, these are allowed on any investigation.
How should we dress?
In the fall and winter months, you should dress warmly. Temperatures inside the prison can be up to 10 degrees cooler than outside. During summer months, normal summer apparel is fine. Please wear good, sturdy footwear. For your safety and comfort, walking or running shoes, boots, etc. are preferred. No flip flops or sandals.
When is the prison closed to paranormal tours?
We are closed the following days: Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, New Year's Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Halloween.
Are pets permitted on tours?
Pets are not permitted on tours at this time. Only service animals will be permitted.
What can’t we bring?
You cannot bring drugs, alcohol, beer, wine, guns, tasers, fireworks, or weapons of any kind.
Is there a minimum age requirement for paranormal investigations?
You must be 18 years of age or older to book and take part in a paranormal investigation. Ages 16-17 will be allowed only when accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
What areas of the penitentiary will we have access to?
You will be able to tour A and B blocks, the cafeteria, the laundry, the gymnasium, the courtyard, the auditorium, the chapel, the Hole, and the Yard. D Block is closed to the public due to structural issues.
Will I have to fill out a waiver?
Yes. We will have a waiver that must be signed before the tour in the presence of the tour guide. For participants age 16-17, a parent or legal guardian must fill out and sign the waiver.
Is any additional insurance required?
No additional insurance is required.
When should we arrive?
Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled tour.
Is there parking?
Yes, you will be able to park near the front entrance of the prison.
When we arrive, where can we set up?
Yes, the prison office is set aside for that purpose. This is also a secure area where you can leave personal items while taking your tour.