Rock Island State Park

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFO: Please note swimming or wading is not permitted downstream of the Powerhouse at any time, regardless of water releases. Check TVA’s website for water release information and dam safety data at: www.tva.gov/Environment/Lake-Levels/Great-Falls.

Please read the text below about the Caney Fork River Gorge and Safety Information prior to visiting the park. 

Rock Island State Park is open, but the following alert is important for all visitors

TVA Great Falls Dam and/or the TVA Great Falls Powerhouse may release water on an irregular schedule. Water discharge may change day to day or even hour to hour. All river gorge areas downstream of the TVA Dam are closed when the dam is in Active water spill mode or a discharge is likely for the day. Before planning your visit, please check TVA's website for Great Falls Dam and Powerhouse for the most current water discharge schedule. Visitors are encouraged to check the discharge schedule often. Discharge schedules can change rapidly based on lake levels, rainfall forecasts, etc. Water releases may occur with or without warning any time you are near a TVA dam or powerhouse. Visitors should be prepared for a quick exit should they hear warning sirens or notice water rising. Life jackets and hiking shoes are strongly encouraged in this area.

The park has also seen very high visitation over the last year. Please do not park on roadsides or in non-designated areas. If the park is full, please consider visiting another state park in the area.

Please check the park’s Facebook page for updates before your visit.  

Donate to Rock Island

Our parks are free for everyone to visit and enjoy. If you love Rock Island State Park, you can donate today to help us continue investing in quality programs and services. Your donations will help make your favorite park even better! We'll use the donations for things like:

  • Building and maintaining new trails
  • Feeding and care for our birds of prey (eagles, hawks, owls, etc.)
  • Providing children's programs to connect youth to the outdoors
  • Upgrading our playground equipment
  • Projects that improve visitor experience, not funded by the state's General Fund

"This year our favorite state park has been Rock Island. If you are a waterfall fanatic, go to see these magnificent falls. If you have family members with disabilities, they can take in their beauty too. The park is close to other state parks as well. This was a hidden treasure that we were happy to enjoy. Giving a donation helps insure these parks will be available for all of us to experience." - Lynda Maides, 2021 Donor

Please note: Donations to state governments may qualify for itemized tax deductions. Please consult a qualified tax representative to learn more.

Donate to the Park