The Tennessee State Park where it all began! If you are interested in a more detailed mushy story of how this park brought Jesse and I together, stop by the "About" section. I never knew that this park would forever change my life when I first started working here 2yrs ago as a seasonal office worker. I met the love of my life here and also fell in love with Tennessee State Parks. I have always been I guess what you would call the "outdoorsy" type. I have always appreciated nature and wildlife but now it is a powerful love and interest of mine.
If you have not explored Rock Island State Park here in Tennessee, you must! This 883 acre park is a hidden gem that has recently been rediscovered. Thanks to Facebook and Instagram, the park stays pretty busy during the summer. Folks coming from all over to explore our scenic trails, swim in our Great Falls Gorge and walk along the breathtaking Twin Falls. They share their wonderful experiences and photos with the world through social media and others just have to come see it for themselves.
The park is named after an island that that is located in the Caney Fork River. Rock Island State Park is located between the forks of the Caney Fork River and the Collins River. In the 1890's, a cotton mill was built and operated near Great Falls. In 1917, a hydroelectric plant and dam was constructed downstream from the falls near the fork of the two river that created Great Falls. In 1966, the TVA leased the land to the state so that it could be developed as a state park.
The park offers 60 campsites for tent and RV camping, two of which are handicap and two premium sites. The park also has 10 three-bedroom deluxe cabins, one of which is wheelchair accessible and two pet-friendly cabins. The park can be found at 82 Beach Road in Rock Island Tennessee. Reservations for campsites and cabins can be made online at www.tnstateparks.com or by phone at (931)686-2471 for the park office.
The Old Mill Access Trail will take you to the base of Great Falls which is shown below. It is .5 one way, is steep and strenuous. Not recommended for small children (I have not taken my kiddos to it for this reason) or dogs because it is very rocky. I will admit that I struggle going down there but it is worth the workout. This is the most popular spot in the summer because visitors can swim with this view. If you visit during our busy season, the Great Falls parking lot fills up rather quickly so I would plan to come early. Just a tip!
The most popular trails and my personal favorites is the Downstream Trail and the Upstream Trail. The Downstream Trail is 1.5 miles round trip, it is considered the most scenic because it takes you downstream along Twin Falls (pictured below). This trail is great for kids, I have taken my two kiddos on this trail many times! The Upstream Trail is .5 miles one way. This trail will take you to a set of swimming holes, the warm hole and the cold hole. This swimming area is a good option for kiddos but please do remember the life vests.
Pictured below is the Powerhouse that dates back to 1915.
The views at Twin Falls are breathtaking but swimming in front of them is not allowed. It is not allowed due to the rapids at the base of the falls. It is dangerous for swimming however it is excellent for professional kayaking. So while you are here you may just see some out in the water having fun, they are interesting to watch!
If you also enjoy kayaking but prefer flat water like I do, the park also offers that as well. The Sandbar has a boat ramp that makes a easy spot to put in along the Caney Fork River. Jesse and I have paddled this many times! If you want a spot to just float, relax and enjoy the beautiful weather I recommend you give it a try!
Along the Collins River in front of the Great Falls Dam is an option as well. It is recommended that you first check the TVA schedule before putting in this close to the dam. It can be found online or you can find the release schedule posted outside of the park office.
If you would like to paddle the Collins River or the Caney Fork River but don't own your own kayak, there is this other little gem called "The Happy Yaker" which is just a short drive away. They have top of the line Jackson Kayaks that you can rent for a day of fun! I met John and Leighsa Binkley through the park and I am so glad that I did, you will not meet a nicer couple than these two. If you plan to visit the park and by chance we are booked (which happens often) The Happy Yaker also has "Kottages" that you can rent as well so you can extend your visit here at the park.
The Happy Yaker is located at 120 Powerhouse Road in Walling, TN. You can check out their website at www.thehappyyaker.com or give them a call at (615)504-9549 for reservations.
After a day of hiking our trails or kayaking and you need a place to eat, my favorite is what we locals call "Binos" Rock Island Market. They have excellent burgers and don"t get me started on their pies!
I hope the post has made you start planning your trip to Rock Island very soon!
See You there - Tessa
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