Discover the Natural Wonders of Rock Island State Park
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures of Rock Island State Park, a premier destination for nature lovers in Tennessee.
Nestled in the heart of Tennessee, Rock Island State Park offers stunning waterfalls, picturesque trails, and serene camping experiences. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, this park is a must-visit destination for tourists looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the outdoors.
A brief summary to Rock Island State Park
- 82 Beach Rd, Rock Island, Tennessee, 38581, US
- +1888-867-2757
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good picnic spot by the waterfalls.
- Bring sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the rocky trails safely.
- Consider visiting in the fall for stunning autumn colors.
- Check for any scheduled ranger-led programs for a more informative experience.
- Pack a camera to capture the park's natural beauty, especially at Twin Falls.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from the center of Highland Rim. Head southeast on Highway 111 towards Rock Island. Continue on Highway 111 for about 15 miles until you reach the exit for TN-136. Take the exit and follow TN-136 South for approximately 6 miles. Then, turn left onto Beach Road. Rock Island State Park will be on your right after about 2 miles. The address is 82 Beach Rd, Rock Island, TN 38581.
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Public Transportation
If you prefer public transportation, check if local bus services operate routes from Highland Rim to McMinnville, as this is the nearest major town. From McMinnville, you may need to use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to reach Rock Island State Park. Rideshare prices will vary, typically ranging from $15 to $25, depending on demand and distance.
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Bicycle
For the adventurous, you can also bike to Rock Island State Park. Starting from Highland Rim, take Highway 111 south, then follow the same route as mentioned for cars. Ensure you wear a helmet and have proper lights if you are cycling in the evening. It's about a 20-mile ride, so plan accordingly with water and snacks.
Discover more about Rock Island State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Great Falls Cotton Mill
1.5 km
Discover the Great Falls Cotton Mill, a historic landmark in Rock Island, TN, where history and nature intertwine for an unforgettable experience.
Spring Castle
1.5 km
Discover the allure of Spring Castle in Rock Island, Tennessee, where history meets breathtaking architecture amidst scenic landscapes.
The Historic Dr Thomas Black House
18.8 km
Discover the Historic Dr. Thomas Black House in McMinnville, TN - a beautifully preserved landmark showcasing the rich history and charming architecture of the region.
State Historic Rock House
24.7 km
Discover the captivating history and serene beauty of the State Historic Rock House in Sparta, Tennessee, a perfect stop for history lovers and tourists alike.
Sheep Cave
28.8 km
Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of Sheep Cave, a hidden gem along the Virgin Falls Trail in Sparta, Tennessee.
Friends of Fall Creek Falls State Park
30.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fall Creek Falls State Park, a nature lover's paradise in Tennessee with stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and wildlife.
Bon Air Mountain Historical Society
33.7 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage and captivating stories of Sparta, Tennessee at the Bon Air Mountain Historical Society, a must-visit historical attraction.
Beersheba Springs Historical Society
38.4 km
Explore the Beersheba Springs Historical Society - a historical landmark showcasing Tennessee's rich heritage and stunning valley views.
Site of WHUB Radio's First Studios Marker
41.1 km
Discover the WHUB Radio's First Studios Marker in Cookeville, Tennessee - a historical landmark celebrating the evolution of local broadcasting.
Pioneer Hall Museum
44.3 km
Explore the captivating history and culture of Pleasant Hill at Pioneer Hall Museum, a treasure trove of local heritage and engaging exhibits.
Caney Fork
44.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Caney Fork River in Tennessee, a perfect destination for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
John Bridgeman House
46.8 km
Explore the historic John Bridgeman House in Pikeville, TN, a charming landmark reflecting the rich heritage and architectural beauty of the region.
Historic Pope Cemetery
48.7 km
Explore the serene Historic Pope Cemetery in Dunlap, Tennessee, where history and tranquility converge amidst beautifully weathered headstones.
Cummins Falls State Park
49.8 km
Discover the beauty of Cummins Falls State Park, where waterfalls and lush landscapes await your exploration in Tennessee's great outdoors.
Standing Stone Monument
50.3 km
Explore the Standing Stone Monument in Monterey, TN, a captivating historical landmark that embodies the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Unmissable attractions to see
Twin Falls
0.6 km
Explore breathtaking Twin Falls in Rock Island, TN—an enchanting hiking area perfect for outdoor adventures and stunning natural beauty.
Great Falls Dam
2.0 km
Experience the awe-inspiring Great Falls Dam, a stunning blend of nature's beauty and engineering prowess in Rock Island, Tennessee.
Bone Cave State Natural Area
9.0 km
Explore the enchanting Bone Cave State Natural Area, where stunning landscapes and unique geological features await every nature lover.
Falcon Rest Mansion & Gardens
15.0 km
Experience the historical charm and breathtaking beauty of Falcon Rest Mansion & Gardens in McMinnville, Tennessee, a perfect blend of culture and nature.
Volcano Room at Cumberland Caverns
16.4 km
Explore the stunning Volcano Room at Cumberland Caverns, a unique underground venue for concerts and breathtaking geological wonders in Tennessee.
Cumberland Caverns
16.5 km
Explore the breathtaking underground beauty and history of Cumberland Caverns, a must-visit destination for adventure seekers in Tennessee.
Crusher Hole
23.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Crusher Hole, a natural swimming basin in Spencer, Tennessee, perfect for a refreshing day in nature.
Lost Creek Falls & Cave Trailhead
25.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Lost Creek Falls & Cave Trailhead, a scenic hiking area in Tennessee perfect for outdoor adventures and nature exploration.
Fall Creek Falls State Park
26.1 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Fall Creek Falls State Park, home to stunning waterfalls and endless outdoor adventures in Tennessee.
Burgess Falls State Park
26.4 km
Explore the breathtaking waterfalls and serene landscapes of Burgess Falls State Park, a gem for nature lovers in Tennessee.
Short Mountain Distillery
26.7 km
Explore Short Mountain Distillery in Woodbury, TN - a haven for craft spirits lovers and a journey into the heart of Tennessee distilling traditions.
Sunset Rock
26.8 km
Discover stunning panoramic views and mesmerizing sunsets at Sunset Rock, a must-visit scenic spot in Sparta, Tennessee.
Cumberland Plateau Scenic Overlook
26.9 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serenity of Cumberland Plateau Scenic Overlook, a must-visit scenic spot in Tennessee for nature lovers and photographers.
Window Cliffs State Natural Area
27.1 km
Explore the stunning trails and breathtaking vistas of Window Cliffs State Natural Area in Tennessee, a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Lost Creek State Natural Area
27.2 km
Explore the serene landscapes and breathtaking waterfalls of Lost Creek State Natural Area in Sparta, Tennessee, a must-visit for nature lovers.
Essential places to dine
The Restaurant at Fall Creek Falls
30.2 km
Experience exceptional dining amid nature's beauty at The Restaurant at Fall Creek Falls in Tennessee.
Soul Murfreesboro
63.7 km
Experience the true taste of Southern cuisine at Soul Murfreesboro, where every dish tells a story.
Boro Grill
64.5 km
Experience exceptional local cuisine at Boro Grill in Murfreesboro—where fresh ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Slick Pig BBQ
64.8 km
Experience authentic Southern flavors at Slick Pig BBQ in Murfreesboro - where delicious smoked meats meet warm hospitality.
Cup Pop Korean Restaurant
65.8 km
Experience authentic Korean cuisine at Cup Pop in Murfreesboro – where flavor meets affordability in every dish.
The Boulevard Bar & Grille
65.9 km
Experience authentic American flavors at The Boulevard Bar & Grille in Murfreesboro – where great food meets warm hospitality.
The Fish House
66.2 km
Experience the best of Southern cuisine at The Fish House in Murfreesboro - where soul food meets seafood in a cozy sports bar setting.
Jeff's Family Friendly Restaurant
66.7 km
Experience authentic Southern hospitality and delicious home-cooked meals at Jeff's Family Friendly Restaurant in Murfreesboro.
Kleer-Vu Lunchroom
67.0 km
Discover the essence of Southern comfort food at Kleer-Vu Lunchroom in Murfreesboro—where hearty meals meet warm hospitality.
Primrose Table
67.5 km
Discover the culinary delights of Primrose Table in Murfreesboro, TN – where every dish tells a story!
Party Fowl Murfreesboro
67.6 km
Experience the heart of Southern hospitality at Party Fowl Murfreesboro with delicious chicken dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
Two J's Grille
67.6 km
Experience delightful dining at Two J's Grille in Murfreesboro, TN - where delicious flavors meet warm hospitality.
Hungry Spot
67.6 km
Discover authentic Jamaican cuisine at Hungry Spot in Murfreesboro – where vibrant flavors meet Caribbean hospitality.
City Cafe
67.6 km
Discover the charm of City Cafe in Murfreesboro—where traditional American breakfast meets warm Southern hospitality.
Puckett's Restaurant
67.7 km
Discover the heart of Southern cuisine at Puckett's Restaurant in Murfreesboro - where every meal feels like home.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Rustic Touch
3.5 km
Discover unique antiques, gifts, and home goods at The Rustic Touch in Rock Island, TN, where nostalgia meets creativity.
Fall Creek Falls SP Cabins
30.0 km
Discover the natural beauty of Tennessee at Fall Creek Falls State Park Cabins, your perfect outdoor getaway surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Fall Creek
30.5 km
Experience the serene beauty of Fall Creek in Tennessee, where nature and tranquility come together for a perfect outdoor getaway.
Fall Creek Falls Outfitters
30.8 km
Discover top-quality outdoor clothing and equipment at Fall Creek Falls Outfitters in Pikeville, TN, your adventure starts here!
Fall Creek Falls General Store
30.9 km
Explore the charm of Fall Creek Falls General Store, a unique shopping destination in Pikeville, Tennessee, offering local treasures and outdoor essentials.
Penny's Souvenirs
30.9 km
Explore a delightful gift shop in Pikeville, TN, showcasing unique antiques and local crafts perfect for souvenirs and gifts.
Fall Creek Falls Camper Check-In
31.0 km
Discover the beauty of nature at Fall Creek Falls Camper Check-In, your gateway to adventure in Tennessee's stunning wilderness.
Fall Creek Falls Market
31.4 km
Experience the convenience and local charm of Fall Creek Falls Market, your one-stop destination for gas and groceries in scenic Pikeville, Tennessee.
Fall Creek Falls - Family Campground A & E
31.4 km
Immerse yourself in nature at Fall Creek Falls - Family Campground A & E, where adventure meets tranquility in Tennessee's breathtaking landscapes.
Fall Creek Falls Golf Course (TN Golf Trail)
31.6 km
Experience the beauty and challenge of Fall Creek Falls Golf Course, a hidden gem on the Tennessee Golf Trail, surrounded by stunning natural landscapes.
Local Depot
53.8 km
Explore Local Depot in Dunlap, TN - a charming gift shop and antique store filled with unique treasures and local flavor.
Natural Affinity Soap Shoppe
53.9 km
Explore Natural Affinity Soap Shoppe in Dunlap, TN - a treasure trove of handcrafted soaps and herbal remedies for a delightful shopping experience.
Second Chance Thrift Store
56.8 km
Uncover hidden gems at Second Chance Thrift Store, your go-to destination for unique secondhand finds in Crossville, TN.
Buc-ee's
59.4 km
Discover Buc-ee's in Crossville, TN – a unique convenience store experience with clean facilities, delicious snacks, and quirky merchandise.
Enchanted Planet
67.1 km
Explore Enchanted Planet in Murfreesboro, TN - A treasure trove of unique gifts, incense, and festival magic awaits your discovery.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Nick’s Landing
5.5 km
Experience the heart of American cuisine at Nick's Landing, where every meal is crafted with love in Rock Island, TN.
Old Times Cafe
17.7 km
Experience the warmth of family dining at Old Times Cafe in Spencer, TN, where comfort food meets a welcoming atmosphere.
Cozy Cabins & Cottages
28.0 km
Experience the tranquility of nature at Cozy Cabins & Cottages in Spencer, TN, offering rustic charm and modern comforts for your perfect getaway.
Grandview Experience Lodge
28.5 km
Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Spencer, TN at Grandview Experience Lodge, your perfect getaway for relaxation and adventure.
Snackbar Grill
30.7 km
Discover the flavors of Pikeville at Snackbar Grill, where delicious snacks and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.
Cascade Inn at Fall Creek Falls
31.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Cascade Inn at Fall Creek Falls, a cozy bed and breakfast nestled near Tennessee's stunning waterfalls and scenic trails.
The Butter Dish
46.4 km
Experience the flavors of the South at The Butter Dish, a beloved Pikeville restaurant serving comfort food in a cozy setting.
Bankwalker Brewing Co.
46.7 km
Experience the best of craft beer and delicious dining at Bankwalker Brewing Co. in Pikeville, TN.
Scotties
46.7 km
Discover Scotties in Pikeville, TN - a family-friendly restaurant offering delicious meals and a warm atmosphere perfect for all ages.
The Venue
46.7 km
Experience the best live music in Pikeville, TN at The Venue, where every performance brings the night to life in a cozy and vibrant atmosphere.
Vans bar & grill
63.5 km
Discover delicious grilled delights and a vibrant atmosphere at Vans Bar & Grill in Murfreesboro, TN – a perfect spot for casual dining and socializing.
Handlebars
63.6 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grilled cuisine at Handlebars Grill in Murfreesboro, TN - a local favorite for tourists and families alike.
Gentleman Jims
64.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and extensive drink menu at Gentleman Jims, a favorite bar in Murfreesboro, TN, perfect for a fun night out.
Campus Pub
65.6 km
Discover Campus Pub in Murfreesboro, where great food meets a lively atmosphere, perfect for tourists looking to unwind and enjoy local flavors.
Gentleman Jim's food & spirits
65.6 km
Discover the lively energy of Gentleman Jim's Food & Spirits, a top bar in Murfreesboro, TN, offering great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
