Scenic USA - Tennessee Twin Falls |
Photos by Ben Prepelka Ben Prepelka Photography |
Although Rock Island State Park isn't exceptionally large, a land area just under 900 acres, the waterfalls and amenities here more than make up for its lack of size. Located at the confluence of the Caney Fork, Collins, and Rocky rivers, the park joined the ranks of Tennessee state parks in 1969. The Caney Fork Gorge runs through a long section of the park just below the Great Falls Dam. Trails follow both sides of the gorge along the river's edge. On the southeast corner of the park, the Old Mill Gorge Trail begins near a historic 19th-century cotton mill, powered by the Caney Fork and Collins rivers. Overlooks on the south side of the park provide great views of the gorge and its waterfalls. Along Power House Road, on the northeast side, park viistors will find parking, an overlook and trails which follow the gorge. Here is the best viewpoint for Twin Falls. The unusual waterfall pours out of the walls of a gorge, instead of over the top of the cliff walls. The waterfall, about 80 feet in height, was accidentally created when the Caney Fork River was dammed.
Beyond the park office and visitor center, in the main section of Rock Island Park, are picnic areas, playfields, a nature center, beach, campgrounds and cabins. These ammenities are connected by park roads and a system of trails.
A note of caution: Park visitors are urged to leave the gorge immediately if water begins to rise or if warning sirens are heard.
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