Rock Island State Park, located in central Tennessee, encompasses over 1,000 acres of natural beauty, including the Caney Fork River, waterfalls, rugged cliffs, a deep gorge, lush forests, and a river sand beach with a boat ramp nearby. Twin Falls is a highlight, cascading into the Caney Fork River, with its flow sustained by the Collins River’s seepage through limestone cliffs. Some of the best views along with one of the best trails is accessed across from the main park area off of Powerhouse Road.
Spring at Twin Falls
Serenity and Thunder
Fishing in front of Twin Falls
Walls of Falls
Access to the other side of the river is no longer permitted.
Slow Motion Trickles
Stairstep Panorama
Downstream When Rocks Are Exposed
Downstream Trail Across From Twin Falls
The Downstream Trail is a lollypop trail about 1½ miles total.
Yellow Trout Lily
Along the Downstream Trail
Caney Fork River Below the Falls
From the “Blue Hole” overlook on the Downstream Trail.
The Cavern at Little Falls
At times, a slippery but short uphill spur off the Downstream Trail. A rickety set of steps help.
Little Falls
At the cavern with a window.
Along the Downstream Trail
On the river side of the trail after a good rain.
Redbuds at the Blue Hole
Cascades
Upriver from the Downstream Trail.
After the Water Release
Spring flooding after the dam gates are opened. Don’t be caught — listen for the siren warnings.
Waiting for Dinner
Caney Fork River
With low water, a moment of serenity in the gorge at Rock Island State Park