Looking for a getaway full of natural beauty, refreshing hikes, and plenty of photo ops? OUR Frugal Family Travelers found just that in the waterfall region of central Tennessee. We made our home base in Crossville, TN, a small town with affordable lodging and great local eats. Staying in Crossville gave us easy access—just 30 to 60 minutes each day—to six different state parks and natural areas featuring some of Tennessee’s most scenic waterfalls. For families who prefer sleeping under the stars or staying closer to the trails, Cumberland Mountain State Park in Crossville offers cabins and campsites in a wooded setting with lake access and hiking paths.
1. Fall Creek Falls State Park
We started our waterfall tour with the most well-known in the area: Fall Creek Falls, which plunges 256 feet and is one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. The park covers nearly 30,000 acres and includes other smaller falls, scenic overlooks, a nature center, and several suspension bridges that were a big hit with our family. Trails range from short walks to longer hikes, and the bridges provide a unique view into the gorge below. This is a great half-day or full-day stop with picnic areas and other amenities.
2. Cummins Falls State Park
Cummins Falls was a standout experience. The waterfall itself is a two-drop cascade totaling 75 feet, and it empties into a wide swimming hole. What made this visit special was the hike down through the gorge, which includes multiple creek crossings. Water shoes are a must, and it’s important to walk on the gravel paths in the stream rather than the flat rocks, which can be slippery due to algae. Visitors must reserve a gorge access permit in advance, especially on weekends. The hike is part adventure, part splash, and worth the effort.
3. Burgess Falls State Park
Burgess Falls is a 130-foot waterfall that drops into a deep gorge. The park features a short but scenic hike with multiple smaller waterfalls leading up to the main one. While we did not kayak on this trip, guided kayak tours are available that allow paddlers to travel to the base of the falls for a unique view. It’s a beautiful area and a great option for families who want something a little different. The park also has well-marked trails and viewing platforms for those who prefer to stay on foot.
4. Ozone Falls State Natural Area
Located just off I‑40 near Crossville, Ozone Falls is an easy stop with a short trail and a dramatic 110-foot drop. The path leads down to the base of the falls, where large boulders and a clear pool make it a good spot to relax and explore. The setting is peaceful, and the surrounding rock walls form a natural amphitheater. This waterfall was used as a filming location for Disney’s The Jungle Book. It’s an ideal stop if you’re short on time but still want to enjoy a scenic waterfall.
5. Stinging Fork Falls State Natural Area
This lesser-known natural area near Spring City features a 30-foot fan-shaped waterfall at the end of a one-mile trail. The walk in is quiet and shaded, passing through second-growth forest and down into a bluff-lined creek valley. The falls are smaller but beautiful, and the area feels secluded. Hiking shoes are recommended due to the steeper sections of the trail.
6. Piney Falls State Natural Area
Piney Falls was one of our favorite hikes. This natural area features both upper and lower waterfalls, with the upper fall dropping about 80 feet. The trail includes a steep descent assisted by a rock cable ladder and ends at a spot where you can walk behind the waterfall. Along the gorge, we saw impressions of ancient tree bark embedded in the sandstone. Piney Falls is recognized as a National Natural Landmark, home to old-growth trees including white pines and hemlocks over 100 feet tall. The trail is more rugged, but very rewarding
7. Rock Island State Park
The final stop for OUR Frugal Family Travelers was Rock Island State Park, located at the headwaters of Center Hill Lake where the Caney Fork and Collins Rivers meet. The park is home to several waterfalls, including the unique Twin Falls, which pour out of a limestone bluff and flow directly into the river. The trails near the gorge offer great views, and there are easy access points for exploring the water. We found the area near the old cotton mill especially scenic. This park has a mix of history and natural beauty, and it was a peaceful addition to our waterfall trip. Families should be aware that swimming is only allowed in designated areas due to strong currents near the falls.
Budget-Friendly Takeaways
- Stay in Crossville for easy day trips to each waterfall. The town offers affordable lodging and convenient access to grocery stores and restaurants.
- Cumberland Mountain State Park is a good option for families who want cabins or campsites with hiking trails right on-site.
- Pack water shoes for creek crossings, especially at Cummins Falls. Hiking shoes are also recommended for some of the steeper trails like Piney Falls and Stinging Fork.
- Bring snacks and plenty of water for the trails. Many of these locations have limited services once you’re hiking.
- Plan ahead for permits, especially for Cummins Falls. Gorge access is limited for safety and often fills up on weekends.
- Check park hours before visiting, as trail access is often restricted after dusk.
Final Thoughts
This six-stop waterfall itinerary gave us a mix of popular parks and quiet natural areas, all within an hour’s drive from Crossville. From the towering drop at Fall Creek Falls to the adventurous hike behind Piney Falls, each stop offered something different. It was a fun and affordable way to explore the natural beauty of central Tennessee. We hope it inspires your own Frugal Family adventure.
