The park is named for Justin P. Wilson in honor of his work to help make the vision of the Cumberland Trail a reality.

As of 2014[update] he is Comptroller of the State of Tennessee, an attorney, longtime Republican Party and conservation activist.

it gives hikers access to areas preserved for their natural or scenic beauty, providing a wilderness experience rare in the eastern US.

A number of other individuals and volunteer organizations are also assisting in bringing the vision of the Cumberland Trail closer to completion.

A big portion of the 235,000 hours donated to date to construct and maintain the trail have been BreakAway students.