Waterfalls are everywhere across the state, and many of the best ones are tucked inside Tennessee State Parks. So, whether you’re planning a weekend hike or mapping out a Tennessee road trip, this waterfall overview guide makes it easy to choose where to go. From big, dramatic drops to shorter falls that still feel magical, these TN State Park waterfalls deserve a spot on your must-see list.
Disclosure: This site contains links from our trusted partners, including Amazon. If you book or purchase through these we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We apprecitate your support!
Explore Tennessee State Parks
With more than 60 Tennessee State Parks across the state, there’s no shortage of places to explore. These parks protect everything from historic landmarks to scenic overlooks and miles of hiking trails.
So, whether you’re visiting for history, outdoor adventure, or peaceful nature walks, Tennessee State Parks offer something for every kind of traveler — and that certainly includes waterfalls.
East Tennessee TN State Parks
East Tennessee is home to rugged terrain, deep gorges, and some of the most well-known waterfalls in Tennessee State Parks. From towering drops to forest-lined cascades, this region features a wide variety of Tennessee State Park waterfalls that are easy to pair with scenic hikes and weekend trips.
Fall Creek Falls State Park (Spencer TN)
One of Tennessee’s most visited state parks, this park is home to multiple iconic waterfalls.
Fall Creek Falls
- Drops approximately 256 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern United States
- Easily accessed from overlooks and nearby hiking trails
Trail Tip: Base of Fall Creek Falls
The trail to the base is short but rocky, and the climb back up is very steep and strenuous. Take your time, wear shoes with good traction, and be cautious on slick rock.
Cane Creek Falls
- Located just upstream from Fall Creek Falls
- Viewed from overlooks and connected suspension bridge trails
Rockhouse Falls
- A quieter waterfall tucked into a rocky amphitheater
- Reached by a moderate hiking trail within the park
→ Official park info for Fall Creek Falls State Park
Burgess Falls State Park (Sparta TN)
This park features a series of waterfalls that grow larger along a scenic gorge trail.
Burgess Falls
- A powerful 136-foot waterfall plunging into a deep gorge
- Well-maintained trail with multiple scenic viewpoints
Trail Tip: Burgess Falls
The hike to Burgess Falls is ~1.5 miles round trip and mostly family friendly, but there are some uphill sections and rock steps near the overlooks. Wear good shoes and take your time on steeper bits.
Ready to Explore These Waterfalls?
Plan Your Tennessee Trip
- Hotels: Find places to stay near Tennessee State Parks and waterfall hikes
- Flights: Search for the best routes into Tennessee airports
- Cabins: Book cozy cabins and vacation rentals close to nature
- Rental Cars: Compare options for scenic drives and park hopping
Frozen Head State Park (Wartburg TN)
Known for rugged terrain and remote hiking trails, this park is a favorite among experienced hikers.
DeBord Falls
- Peaceful waterfall tucked into a wooded setting
- Best visited in spring or after rainfall
Middle Tennessee TN State Parks
Middle Tennessee waterfalls are often tucked into rocky gorges and river corridors, offering rewarding hikes and impressive views inside Tennessee State Parks.
Rock Island State Park (Rock Island TN)
Located at the headwaters of Center Hill Lake, this park is known for powerful water flow and historic surroundings.
Twin Falls
- Unique waterfall flowing beneath a historic powerhouse
- Most impressive during periods of high water
Great Falls
- Powerful river waterfall near historic mill ruins
- Best viewed during scheduled dam releases
Trail Tip: Twin Falls & Great Falls
These waterfalls are easy to reach by short walks and overlooks, but rocks can be slippery. Stay on marked paths and avoid the water’s edge during high flow.
Cummins Falls State Park (Cookeville TN)
This park is home to one of the most popular waterfall hikes in Middle Tennessee.
Cummins Falls
- A 75-foot waterfall dropping into a rocky gorge and plunge pool
- Gorge access requires planning and awareness of seasonal restrictions
Trail Tip: Cummins Falls
There’s a scenic viewing area if you’d rather not hike into the gorge. However, hiking to the base requires a permit, and access may be restricted based on conditions.
Savage Gulf State Park (Altamont and Palmer TN)
This park features deep gorges and several well-known waterfall hikes across different trailheads.
Greeter Falls
- Features both upper and lower waterfall sections
- Upper overlook is easily accessible
Trail Tip: Greeter Falls
Greeter Falls has both an upper overlook and a lower waterfall area. The overlook is an easy walk, while the trail to the lower falls is steeper and requires extra caution on slick rock
Ranger Falls
- Secluded waterfall flowing into a rocky gorge
- Often seasonal and strongest after rainfall
Boardtree Falls
- Tall, narrow waterfall hidden deep within the park
- Requires a moderate to strenuous hike
→ Official park info for Savage Gulf State Park
Fiery Gizzard State Park (Tracy City TN)
This park is known for rugged scenery and one of the most iconic trail corridors on the South Cumberland Plateau.
Foster Falls
- Dramatic waterfall plunging into a deep pool
- Short hike to the overlook with trail access
West Tennessee TN State Parks
Waterfalls are less common in this region, but a few Tennessee State Parks still feature scenic cascades worth visiting.
Natchez Trace State Park (Wildersville TN)
This park offers peaceful woodland scenery and gentle hiking trails.
Jackson Falls
- Small waterfall located along a wooded trail
- Best visited after rainfall
Trail Tip: Jackson Falls
Jackson Falls is reached by a short, easy hike on a wooded trail. The area can be muddy after rain, so wear shoes with good traction and watch your footing near the water.
Pickett CCC Memorial State Park (Jamestown TN)
Often overlooked, this park features rugged terrain and quiet trails.
Hidden Falls
- Shaded waterfall reached by a short hiking trail
- Minimal crowds compared to larger parks
Essential Safety Tips
Waterfall areas can be slippery and unpredictable, so a few simple habits help keep every hike safer.
- Stay on marked trails and never climb on wet rocks
- Keep a close eye on kids near edges, fast water, and overlooks
→ Read our full Tennessee Waterfall Hiking Tips guide here (Coming Soon)
Ready to Explore?
From towering waterfalls to quieter cascades tucked along forest trails, Tennessee State Parks offer incredible places to explore across the state. Whether you’re planning a quick hike or a longer road trip, these Tennessee State Park waterfalls are a great starting point for discovering just how much natural beauty this state has to offer.
Disclosure: This site contains links from our trusted partners, including Amazon. If you book or purchase through these we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We apprecitate your support!