With so many local swimming holes to choose from, your only problem is choosing which to go to first. So pack a cooler of food, grab your towels and rub in the sunscreen. Here are seven swimming holes in Tennessee that every family should visit during the summer season.
Fall Creek Falls
You’ll find several cool, crisp pools amid Fall Creek Falls State Park’s 26,000 acres of forests, waterfalls and gorges. Bring an inflatable raft and a picnic-style lunch to enjoy under the shade of this area’s tall, leafy trees. Learn more at Tennessee State Parks.
The Little River Townsend Wye
Can’t seem to cool off? Even on the hottest days, the waters near the Townsend entrance of the Smoky Mountains National Park stay nice and refreshing. Splash around for the day or embark on a lazy tubing excursion — there are several local tube rental shops nearby. Learn more at Inside Townsend.
Cummins Falls
Nestled on the Blackburn Fork State Scenic River, this idyllic swimming spot boasts a 75-foot waterfall that’s been a favorite among locals for more than 100 years. Because reaching the cold-water pool requires a slippery hike through ankle-deep water, it’s better suited for families with older kids. Learn more at Tennessee State Parks.
Looking for a way to beat the summer heat? Discover more water recreation opportunities in Tennessee.
Rutledge Falls
Wade into a clear, refreshing pool fed by a 50-foot waterfall in the south-central region of Tennessee. The area surrounding Rutledge Falls is privately owned, but the owner allows free access from dawn to dusk. Learn more at Tennessee Vacation.
Magnolia Bridge
Chill out in the lagoon of this picturesque, spring-fed creek that caters to families of all ages. The Magnolia Bridge swimming hole has a shallow area for little ones who are just starting to get their feet wet, plus a deeper area and rope swing for older, more adventurous kids. Learn more at SwimmingHoles.info.
Pickwick Landing
Take your pick of three public swimming areas that run along two miles of beaches in this Southwestern Tennessee state park. You’ll find Circle Beach and Sandy Beach in the park’s day-use area, as well as a third beach that sits across the lake in the Bruton Branch primitive area. After working up an appetite in the water, head over to The Captain’s Galley, the Pickwick Landing restaurant where children under 6 eat for free. Learn more at Tennessee State Parks.
Blue Hole
This off-the-beaten-path swimming hole sits under the Blue Hole Bridge on the edge of the Buffalo River. Wade in the water, rent a canoe to float down the river or take advantage of the Buffalo River Camping Site. It’s pure family summer fun, Tennessee-style. Learn more at SwimmingHoles.info.
As far as summer fun goes, exploring the natural beauty of swimming holes in Tennessee really is hard to beat. Where will you dive in?
Most outdoor activities have some level of risk, and you may need to consult an expert before engaging in the activity. Always check the current weather conditions before embarking on any outdoor activity.
Get more information about specific health terms, topics and conditions to better manage your health on bcbst.com. BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee members can access wellness-related discounts on fitness products, gym memberships, healthy eating and more through Blue365®. BCBST members can also find tools and resources to help improve health and well-being by logging into BlueAccess and going to the Managing Your Health tab.
1 Comment
WellTuned provides inspiration and practical advice for healthy living.
WellTuned does not offer medical advice. Any personal health questions should be addressed to your doctor.