Frogs in Tennessee: identification guide and best places to start
Frogs are widespread across Tennessee, found in wetlands, ponds, streams, and even suburban backyards. The best time to spot them is during warm, humid nights from March to September. Start by listening for calls near water sources at dusk. This guide covers where to look, when to go, and how to identify common Tennessee frogs.
By Tim, founder of Easy Street Markets. I maintain the wildlife database and verify every animal and source myself. Updated June 28, 2026.
Eastern Spadefoot 路 Ken-ichi Ueda CC BY
Bird-voiced Treefrog 路 Dominic CC BY
Wood Frog 路 Nick Tobler (Cowturtle) CC BY
- 8
- species recorded
- May, June, April
- peak months
Verified species, source iNaturalist
21 types of frogs recorded in Tennessee
21 frog species have a verified observation record in Tennessee, each with at least 10 confirmed sightings. The full list, ranked by how often each is recorded, is below.
1 of the 21 shown is recorded as introduced to Tennessee rather than native.
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Also recorded in Tennessee
| # | Species | Scientific name | Records |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13 | Wood FrogLithobates sylvaticus | Lithobates sylvaticus | 538 |
| 14 | Eastern SpadefootScaphiopus holbrookii | Scaphiopus holbrookii | 202 |
| 15 | Barking Tree FrogDryophytes gratiosus | Dryophytes gratiosus | 91 |
| 16 | Bird-voiced TreefrogDryophytes avivoca | Dryophytes avivoca | 87 |
| 17 | Southern Cricket FrogAcris gryllus | Acris gryllus | 67 |
| 18 | Mountain Chorus FrogPseudacris brachyphona | Pseudacris brachyphona | 32 |
| 19 | Blanchard's Cricket FrogAcris blanchardi | Acris blanchardi | 30 |
| 20 | Squirrel Tree FrogIntroducedDryophytes squirellus | Dryophytes squirellus | 26 |
| 21 | Gray TreefrogDryophytes versicolor | Dryophytes versicolor | 23 |
Plus 4 more recorded only rarely (fewer than 10 verified sightings). Counts from verified iNaturalist observations. Photos by iNaturalist observers, reused under the licence each observer chose.
Real sighting data, source iNaturalist
26,092 verified observations on iNaturalist of frog have been recorded in Tennessee, most often in May, June, April.
When frog are recorded in Tennessee
Frogs are widespread across Tennessee, found in wetlands, ponds, streams, and even suburban backyards. The best time to spot them is during warm, humid nights from March to September. Start by listening for calls near water sources at dusk. This guide covers where to look, when to go, and how to identify common Tennessee frogs.
1. Where are you most likely to notice frogs in Tennessee?
Frogs thrive in wetlands, ponds, slow-moving streams, and vernal pools across the state. Top spots include Reelfoot Lake, the Cumberland Plateau, and the Great Smoky Mountains. In suburbs, look near garden ponds or drainage ditches after rain. Tennessee's diverse habitats host over 20 species. For more on Tennessee wildlife, check out ourwildlife in Tennesseepage.
In Tennessee, frogs sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where people are most likely to notice them. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
2. What season or weather patterns help for frog spotting?
Spring is prime time, especially after heavy rains when temperatures stay above 60掳F. Frogs become active during breeding season from March to June. Late summer thunderstorms also trigger calling. Best odds are on humid evenings near water. For a deeper look at frog behavior, visit ourfrog hub.
3. Simple ID cues that separate Tennessee frogs from lookalikes
Focus on size, color, toe pad size, and call. American bullfrogs are large with a deep bellow, while green frogs have a banjo-like twang. Gray treefrogs have sticky toe pads and a trill. Check dorsal ridges: bullfrogs lack them, green frogs have partial ridges. Eye color helps too: green frogs have golden eyes. For comparison, see ourheron identification guidefor similar wetland birds.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
4. Common frog species in Tennessee and where to find them
American bullfrog: widespread in still water. Green frog: common in streams and ponds. Gray treefrog: found in forests and backyards. Spring peeper: early spring breeder in woodland pools. Each has a distinct call. Listen for choruses near water after dark.
5. How to attract frogs to your backyard in Tennessee
Dig a small pond with shallow edges and native plants. Avoid pesticides and leave leaf litter for cover. Add a log or rock pile. Frogs will naturally move in if water is present. Provide a shallow dish with water if space is limited.
6. Frog art and prints to bring Tennessee wildlife indoors
If you want to keep the feel of Tennessee frogs in your home, check out these prints:
Red Eyed Tree Frog Limited-Edition Print
This vibrant print captures the iconic red-eyed tree frog, a species not native to Tennessee but beloved for its striking colors. Perfect for a home office or den.Check Price and Availability
Pine Barrens Tree Frog Limited-Edition Print
The Pine Barrens tree frog is a rare beauty from the Southeast. This print brings a touch of wetland charm to any room.Check Price and Availability
For more wildlife-themed apparel and gifts, browse ourwildlife t-shirtscollection.
Wall art print: Frog by Eimear Maguire on Artfully Walls. Illustration, Animals, framed or unframed art printed on fine art paper
Product from otherCheck Price and Availability
7. What are common questions about frogs in Tennessee?
**Q: Are there poisonous frogs in Tennessee?** A: No native frogs are deadly, but some, like the pickerel frog, secrete mild toxins that can irritate skin. Avoid handling with open cuts.
**Q: What is the largest frog in Tennessee?** A: The American bullfrog, reaching up to 8 inches in length.
**Q: When do frogs start calling in Tennessee?** A: Typically late February to early March, depending on weather.
**Q: Can I keep a wild frog as a pet?** A: It's not recommended. Wild frogs often carry diseases and may not adapt to captivity. Enjoy them outdoors.
For more on Tennessee wildlife, see ourTennessee wildlifepage.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.
Gear and field guides
Plan your trip
Best time to see frog in Tennessee: May, June, April
See the month-by-month sighting calendar.
Plan your frog sighting in Tennessee
Where to look in Tennessee
- Appalachian National Scenic Trail 路 Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching 路 Find hotels
- Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area 路 Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching 路 Find hotels
- Cumberland Gap National Historical Park 路 Wildlife Watching 路 Find hotels
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park 路 Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching 路 Find hotels
- Natchez Trace Parkway 路 Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching 路 Find hotels
- Obed Wild & Scenic River 路 Wildlife Watching, Birdwatching 路 Find hotels
Frequently asked questions
What frog species live in Tennessee?+
Frogs thrive in wetlands, ponds, slow-moving streams, and vernal pools across the state. Top spots include Reelfoot Lake, the Cumberland Plateau, and the Great Smoky Mountains. In suburbs, look near garden ponds or drainage ditches after rain. Tennessee's diverse habitats host over 20 species. For more on Tennessee wildlife, check out ourwildlife in Tennesseepage. In Tennessee, frogs sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where people are most likely to notice them. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
Where can you see frogs in Tennessee?+
Frogs thrive in wetlands, ponds, slow-moving streams, and vernal pools across the state. Top spots include Reelfoot Lake, the Cumberland Plateau, and the Great Smoky Mountains. In suburbs, look near garden ponds or drainage ditches after rain. Tennessee's diverse habitats host over 20 species. For more on Tennessee wildlife, check out ourwildlife in Tennesseepage. In Tennessee, frogs sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where people are most likely to notice them. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
When is the best time to see frogs in Tennessee?+
Frogs thrive in wetlands, ponds, slow-moving streams, and vernal pools across the state. Top spots include Reelfoot Lake, the Cumberland Plateau, and the Great Smoky Mountains. In suburbs, look near garden ponds or drainage ditches after rain. Tennessee's diverse habitats host over 20 species. For more on Tennessee wildlife, check out ourwildlife in Tennesseepage. In Tennessee, frogs sightings usually improve when you slow down and match your first stop to where people are most likely to notice them. Use thestate wildlife huband theroute guideto narrow your first area, then check access, weather, and distance before you settle in. A short walk with one clear viewing plan often beats covering too much ground, especially when habitat changes fast from open edges to brush, wetlands, timber, shoreline, or neighborhood cover.
Keep exploring
More places to see frog
More wildlife in Tennessee
Common questions about frogs