Cummins Falls State Park is a 282-acre (about 1.14 square kilometers) state park located in Jackson County, northwest of Cookeville, Tennessee, USA. The park is named after Cummins Falls, a 75-foot (about 23 meters) waterfall situated on the Blackburn Fork State Scenic River. The park was established in 2011 after being purchased by the TennGreen Land Conservancy (formerly the Tennessee Parks & Greenways Foundation).
Cummins Falls
1 photo
Leaflet © OpenStreetMap
23m
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Cummins Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Cummins Falls famous?
Cummins Falls is Tennessee's eighth-largest waterfall by volume and is famous for its stunning 75-foot cascade into a swimmable gorge pool. It became a state park in 2012 due to its popularity and is one of the most visited natural swimming holes in Middle Tennessee.
Can you swim at Cummins Falls?
Yes, swimming is allowed and popular at the base of the falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Cummins Falls?
Dogs are not allowed on the trails or in the park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Cummins Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Day-use fees apply, and advanced reservations are required during peak season (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day). Please check the official website. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Cummins Falls?
Parking is available at the state park entrance. A reservation system is in place during peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day) with fees that vary; capacity is limited to manage crowds. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Cummins Falls?
About 1.5 miles (2.4 km) round trip from the parking area to the falls, descending to the gorge. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Cummins Falls hike difficulty
Moderate to Hard due to steep descent into the gorge, rocky terrain, and stream crossings required to reach the falls base. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Cummins Falls?
Spring (April-May) and early summer for higher water flow from spring rains, though the park is popular year-round. Summer can be crowded; fall offers cooler temperatures. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Cummins Falls
From the parking area, follow the main trail downhill into the gorge, descending approximately 300 feet. The trail becomes rockier as you approach the creek. You will need to wade and navigate the creek bed over boulders to reach the falls base and swimming area. Wear water shoes and be prepared for slippery conditions.
Cummins Falls official website
Attractions near Cummins Falls
- •Burgess Falls State Park - scenic waterfall park with multiple cascades about 20 minutes away
- •Rock Island State Park - offers Blue Hole swimming area and additional waterfalls
- •Cookeville - charming town with dining and services about 10 miles north
- •Center Hill Lake - large reservoir for boating and water recreation nearby
Watch the falls
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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