|
Home >
Travel >
State Parks >
Tennessee >
Rock Island State Park |
|
|
The scenic beauty of this wooded park is dominated by the Great Falls of the
Caney Fork River - an imposing limestone gorge (called a gulf in southern
culture). It provides scenic overlooks, waterfalls and deep pools for fishing,
rock-hopping and exploring. Located at the confluence of the Collins and Caney
Fork Rivers, this 883-acre park has a natural sand beach on Center Hill
Resevoir. Historic features of the park include a 19th century textile mill and
one of Tennessee's early hydroelectric plants
Boating/Fishing
Lake and River fishing
Boating and fishing are very popular on Center Hill Lake as well as on Great
Falls Lake. There is a free public launching ramp on Great Falls Lake. The Blue
Hole, on Center Hill Lake, lies adjacent to the park shore and is the spawning
ground for the walleye in Center Hill Lake. It is considered one of the finest
fishing places in the state. It is accessible via a boat launching ramp located
in the park. Fishing is best in the spring, but visitors enjoy boat riding and
skiing well into the fall.
Fish catches include bass, musklunge, and bluegill. Valid TN Fishing license is
required.
Tennessee Boating Regulations (exit TDEC)
Tennessee Fishing Regulations (exit TDEC)
Cabins
The park features 10 cabins. The three bedroom/two bath cabins are completely
equipped for housekeeping including appliances, coffee pot, microwave, cooking
utensils, dishes, and linens. Each cabin also features a fireplace with gas logs
(seasonal), television, VCR, and charcoal grill. The cabins are open year round.
No pets are allowed with the exception of service animals. 1/2 mile from Center
Hill Lake.
For reservations: 800-713-6065
Reservations may be made up to a year in advance.
Camping
Rock Island has 60 campsites, each equipped with electrical and water hookups,
grill, and picnic table. Three modern bathhouses (with hot water showers,
lavatories, and commodes) are located in the camping area. There is a dump
station at the far end of the campground for the convenience of self-contained
camping rigs. Campers must register at the park office. Campsites can be
reserved, maximum stay limit is two weeks. This facility is open year round.
Laundry facilities are available in the campground area.
Reservations are recommended for holiday weekends.
Reservations: 931-686-2471
Tent camping is allowed.
Picnic Facilities
There are four picnicking areas wtihin the park. All are equipped with tables,
grills, and drinking water. All have restroom facilities.
Two picnic pavilions that can accommodate up to 100 people each, can be reserved
for group use. Reservations may be made up to a year in advance.
Swimming
The park's natural sand beach is located on the headwaters of the beautiful
Center Hill Lake. Adequate parking space and a modern bathhouse are provided. No
lifeguards on duty.
Programs
Programs are scheduled on a weekly basis throughout the summer and include
activities such as
Interpretive hikes
Canoe floats
Pontoon boat tours
Birdwalks
Rock hops in the gorge
Live animal shows
Softball
Volleyball
Horseshoes and much more.
Special programs may also be set-up by contacting the park's interpretive
specialist.
Also enjoy:
Tennessee Wildlife
Interpretive Canoe Float-Seasonal
Owl Prowl-Seasonal
Campfire Program
Birding Programs
For more information on interpretive programs, contact Jodie Stinson at
931-686-2471
Special Events
Currently there are no special events at Rock Island State Park.
Other Activities
Badminton
Basketball
Horseshoes
Ping-Pong
Playground
Softball
Tennis Courts
Volleyball
Board Games
Tour Buses
Buses are welcome at the park. |
|
|
|
