10 Tennessee Swimming Holes You Can’t Miss This Summer

There is nothing more fantastic or quintessentially southern than a dip in the swimming hole when the weather warms. We've found some amazing places that are sure to make some memories in the months to come. Take a look at some of the best swimming holes in Tennessee you'll want to visit when temperatures start to rise:

1) Cummins Falls - Cookeville

There used to be two mills on this now vibrantly popular property, but now you'll find a lot of hikers and adventurers ready for a day in the sun. Permits are now required to access the gorge and can be bought online ahead of time.

More Information: Cummins Falls State Park website

Understanding the safety of our natural areas can be very important so here are some tips from our state park rangers.

2) The Sinks - Little River

Be very, very wary of the water levels at this spot. There's a fun cliff-jumping spot really popular with the kids, but accidents are prevalent. Keep an eye on 'em. In fact, the national park itself has stated that they highly recommend you do not swim in this area, maybe just looking at the waterfall might be a better activity. It is much safer to swim just downstream not fall from the waterfall where the current isn't as intense and there are no drop-offs.

More Information: The Sinks in Smoky Mountain National Park

If you want to take a look at this video from Adventuring in the Moment, it will give you a good idea of where the overlook is to this beautiful waterfall.

3) Rutledge Falls - Tullahoma

You too can jump off a waterfall and live your childhood dream of being a watery daredevil.

More Information: Rutledge Falls

Also, make sure to check out this video from Southeastern Frontiers to see not only the hike in, but some beautiful shots of the waterfall.

4) Rock Island State Park - Rock Island

Look at those waterfalls. Think of the opportunity. Now stop thinking and GO.

More Information: Rock Island State Park website

Take a look at this waterfall from this video by MannVaasanai:

5) Narrows of Harpeth - Kingston Springs

Located in the Harpeth River State Park, the Narrows are a great spot if you're looking quick swim, or cut through the river on a kayak or canoe. That tunnel up there? It was excavated in 1818!

More Information: Harpeth River State Park

To check out the hikes in Harpeth River State Park, including the tunnel, watch this video from Middle Tn Hikes:

6) Fort Dickerson Quarry - Knoxville

Located right beyond UT, this roomy spot is extremely popular with the East Tennessee young folk.

Check out the amazing views you can find of this scenic swimming hole from this video by PROPIN’S TRAVEL VLOG:

7) Fall Creek Falls - Spencer

With 26,000 acres of breathtaking Tennessee wilderness, you can take a swim at the largest and most consistently visited state park.

More Information: Fall Creek Falls State Park website

Within this park, one of the best places to swim is by Cane Creek Falls. Check out this video by Adventuring in the Moment to see it:

8) Blue Hole Falls - Carter County

This is an easy spot to get to and is flanked by a series of four separate waterfalls. It also has a beautiful trail for gorgeous hiking.

More Information: Blue Hole Falls

Check out this video from Adventuring in the Moment of the amazing blue water:

9) Big South Fork National River and Recreational Area - Oneida

If you find yourself wandering through this stunning national park then you are more than likely to run into a pool perfect for jumping in and hanging out with your family and friends. This one is for you adventurous folk!

More Information: Big South Fork National River and Recreational Area website

One of the best places to go swimming is called Gentleman's Swimming Hole in the park. You can check out the end of this video by America's Parks to see it:

10) Old Hickory Lake - North of Nashville

Old Hickory Lake is fairly small and is the perfect secluded spot for a quick dip.

More Information: Old Hickory Lake

I don't know about you but the best swimming holes in Tennessee are making me feel like it is time for a summer road trip. First things first you are going to need a lot of great snacks to take with you on the road, after that pack up, and let's hit the water!

Alright, Tennessee - weigh in! Whaddya think? What places to swim in Tennessee did we miss? And what are some other waterfalls you can swim in Tennessee? Let us know in the comments section or nominate your favorites.