1. Rock Island State Park
Rock Island is a popular state park located at the headwaters of Center Hill Lake, 14 miles north of McMinnville in central Tennessee. Caney Fork Gorge below Great Falls Dam has breathtaking scenic overlooks. Points of interest include 30-foot Great Falls, Twin Falls, and the Blue Hole. Below the falls is a textile mill from the 19th century that was once powered by the waterfall.
Observe the rugged natural features of this 916-acre park carefully and from a distance. Slippery limestone, fast-moving currents, and fluctuating water levels are the main reasons to exercise caution during your visit to the park. Some areas are off-limits for swimming, and visitors are encouraged to heed the warnings. Swimmers are directed to the natural sandy beach with boat access.
World-class kayakers thrill to the park’s white water challenges. If you wish to stay overnight, there are 10 cabins and 60 campsites.
Address: 82 Beach Road, Rock Island, Tennessee
2. Cumberland Mountain State Park
Cumberland Mountain State Park is popular because there are so many things to see and do in this scenic 1,720-acre park. It’s located at 2000-foot elevation in the Cumberland Plateau. Start with an easy walk on the mile-long loop trail around Byrd Lake. The park has 14 miles of hiking trails and four miles of biking trails. Enjoy 55-acre Byrd Lake in your own boat or one that you rent from the park–kayaks and rowboats are available. Fish for largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and rainbow trout.
Among the park’s amenities are a wading pool for the kids and an Olympic-sized pool where you can swim laps. One of the most photographed features is the seven-arch sandstone bridge across Byrd Lake. This structure was the largest ever built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
Throughout the year, special events are hosted at the park such as a rock-climbing workshop in April and «trunk or treat» at Halloween. There are no dull moments.
Address: 24 Office Drive, Crossville, Tennessee
