This is a developing story.

A 685-acre parcel of land in southeast Tennessee that was privately owned has been acquired for climbing and conservation.

The Access Fund and Southeastern Climbers Coalition announced Monday that Denny Cove, near Jasper, Tenn., will be turned over to the state of Tennessee later this year.

The deal was signed on July 27, and the area is officially open for climbing, according to a news release.

"This is an important step for climbing conservation in the region," said Zachary Lesch-Huie, southeast regional director for the Access Fund. "We've protected and opened one of the Deep South's largest new climbing areas, and forged new partnerships with the state and conservation groups that will strengthen our ability to protect more climbing areas in the future."

The Land Trust for Tennessee and The Conservation Fund helped with the acquisition, and other private groups helped with the $1.2 million purchase.

Stay with the Times Free Press for more details.