This Secret Swimming Hole in Tennessee is Perfect for an Unforgettable Adventure

It’s that special time of year when the temperatures start to rise, and we all start looking for ways to beat the heat. I know how tempting it is to stay indoors all summer long under that refreshing air conditioning, but there are simply too many incredible summer spots in Tennessee to pass up. Of course, splashing the day away is one of the most popular ways to spend a summer day, and there’s one particular area that might just be the best swimming hole in Tennessee. 

Cummins Falls State Park might not be the largest state park in the state, but it’s home to one of my favorite places to swim in Tennessee. I’m a sucker for waterfall swimming holes, and Cummins Falls checks off all my boxes.

What Makes This Spot So Special

Sitting pretty in Jackson County, Cummins Falls State Park is one of Middle Tennessee’s hidden gems, except it’s not really hiding. The 457-acre state park’s namesake, a 75-foot waterfall, attracts countless visitors every year. The landscape here was shaped by water and time, and you’ll get to see the unique geology of the area firsthand as you wander through the park’s extensive hiking trails. 

While many visitors take the Falls Overlook Trail to get a bird’s-eye view of Cummins Falls, there is a trail to the base of the waterfall and the swimming hole. Most visitors skip it, as it’s a longer trail that requires a permit, but I promise you it’s worth your while!

How to Get There

First things first: get your permit. They are $7 per person and offered daily (weather permitting). Once you have your permit, you can take the 2.5-mile trail to the base of the waterfall. The trail to the base of Cummins Falls is a rugged, steep 2.5-mile route that’s not recommended for pets or kids younger than five. You will need to cross the river to get to the base of the falls, so be prepared to get wet. 

The trail is well-marked; just watch your step for tree roots as you make your way down. Once you’re down there, enjoy! The water is so refreshing on a hot summer day, especially after a strenuous hike. Pack yourself some snacks and drinks so you can enjoy a picnic in between splashing around. 

What to Know Before You Go

We’ve covered the permit part of the adventure, but there are a few other safety tips for visiting this swimming hole in Tennessee. I’d recommend bringing two pairs of shoes: a pair for hiking and a pair of water shoes for swimming. Algae makes those rocks incredibly slippery, and no one wants to get injured.

The gorge area and the base of the falls close at 5 p.m., and the park closes at 6 p.m. Everyone must leave the base of the falls by 5 p.m. to get back to the parking lot and be out of the park by 6 p.m. Follow the Cummins Falls State Park Facebook Page for the most up-to-date information. 

Visit the official website for Cummins Falls State Park to get your permit and plan your next adventure to the best swimming hole in Tennessee today. Keep the summertime fun going when you visit one of these 10 crystal-clear swimming holes in the United States.