Rock Island State Park

Rock Island State Park is an 883-acre peninsula where the Caney Fork River and Collins River meet, featuring multiple cascading waterfalls and a limestone gorge surrounded by dense forest. The terrain transitions from open areas along the riverbanks to thick woodland, with water features forming pools and channels throughout the landscape.

In the 1890s, a cotton mill was constructed at the waterfalls to harness water power for industrial production. The facility operated only briefly before operations ceased, though the structure itself remained notable enough to receive historical recognition many decades later.

The river valleys here have long served as gathering places for people seeking food and passage through the region. Today, visitors come to experience the same flowing waters and natural features that drew communities here for generations.

The park has hiking trails of varying difficulty, camping and cabin options for overnight stays, and areas for fishing and boating. Arriving early gives you the best chance at parking and allows plenty of time to explore both the waterfalls and forest trails.

One of the waterfalls emerges from a cave opening rather than flowing down a cliff face, which is uncommon in most waterfall settings. This happens because water from a nearby river seeps into underground passages and resurfaces at this point.

Location: Tennessee

Inception: 1969

Website: https://tnstateparks.com/parks/about/rock-island

GPS coordinates: 35.80850,-85.64150

Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:02