Rock Island State Park Tennessee (TN) RV Rentals

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Introduction

Rock Island State Park is a premier destination for RV camping, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The park’s history dates back to the 19th century when it was home to a thriving granite industry. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of this era by visiting the historic quarry sites, railroads, and bridges that are scattered throughout the park.

The natural occurrences that have contributed to the park’s unique features are the result of thousands of years of erosion by the Caney Fork River. This has created a series of stunning waterfalls, cascades, and rock formations that are unlike anything else in the state. The park’s lush forests and abundant wildlife also make it an ideal spot for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.

RVThereYet is an RV rental company, offering a diverse fleet of motorhomes, including Class A, Class B, and Class C Rentals, Travel, Trailers, and Motorhomes for unforgettable adventures in scenic RV parks and campsites in Rock Island State Park. Ensure early reservations for camper rentals at Rock Island State Park.

Transportation

When visiting Rock Island State Park there are several transportation options available to visitors. The most convenient way to access the park is by private vehicle as there are several entrances located off of State Route 1. Visitors should be aware that the park has restrictions on rig sizes with a maximum length of 50 feet for RVs and trailers. There are also several parking areas available for RVs and trailers so visitors can easily park and explore the park on foot. Additionally there are several shuttle services available during the peak season that can transport visitors to different areas of the park.

Rock Island State Park offers limited parking options for RVs. While there are no designated RV parking areas throughout the park RVs are allowed to park in the main lot during the day. Overnight parking is only permitted in designated campsites. It’s recommended to camp with an RV and explore the park using alternative transportation methods such as biking or hiking.

Rock Island State Park provides a few transportation options for visitors. There are no shuttle buses but there are walking paths throughout the park. The park is also bike-friendly with several trails suitable for biking. Visitors can rent bikes at the park or bring their own.

Top Campsites in Rock Island State Park

The most popular reservation-only campsites near Rock Island State Park include

Fall Creek Falls State Park Campground

With over 222 campsites this is the largest and most popular campground in the area. Located just 30 minutes from Rock Island it offers a variety of activities such as hiking fishing and swimming. The campground is pet-friendly and open year-round. RVs and trailers up to 50 feet are welcome. Amenities include full hookups restrooms and laundry facilities.

Crossville KOA Holiday

This campground is a favorite among RV renters due to its convenient location and top-notch amenities. Just 45 minutes from Rock Island it features 200 sites a pool a hot tub and a dog park. The campground is open from April to October and welcomes pets. RVs and trailers up to 70 feet are permitted.

Rocky Top Campground

Located just 20 minutes from Rock Island this campground offers 60 sites a fishing pond and a playground. It’s open from April to October and is pet-friendly. RVs and trailers up to 40 feet are welcome. Amenities include full hookups restrooms and a laundry facility.

Cumberland Caverns Campground

This unique campground offers 80 sites and is located just 30 minutes from Rock Island. In addition to camping visitors can explore the caverns go gem mining and attend concerts in the Volcano Room. The campground is open year-round and welcomes pets. RVs and trailers up to 45 feet are permitted. Amenities include full hookups restrooms and a laundry facility.

If you’re looking for first-come-first-served camping options in Rock Island State Park here are a few to consider

Downstream Campground

This campground offers 60 sites and is located near the dam. It’s open year-round and has restrooms but no showers or hookups. RVs and trailers up to 30 feet are welcome.

Powerhouse Bend Campground

This campground offers 10 sites and is located near the powerhouse. It’s open year-round and has restrooms but no showers or hookups. RVs and trailers up to 20 feet are welcome.

Tent Campground

This campground offers 60 sites and is located near the swimming area. It’s open from May to September and has restrooms and showers but no hookups. Tents only.

If the campgrounds in Rock Island State Park are full there are still plenty of alternative camping options nearby. Here are a few to consider

Private Campgrounds

There are several private campgrounds in the area including Rock Island Campground and Lost Creek Resort. These campgrounds offer a range of amenities including full hookups restrooms and showers. They also welcome pets and RVs of all sizes.

Backcountry Camping

For a more rustic experience consider backcountry camping in the Savage Gulf State Natural Area. Permits are required and campers must hike at least a mile from the trailhead to set up camp. There are no amenities so campers must be self-sufficient.

Rock Island State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts particularly RV campers who love recreational activities like hiking biking fishing and cycling. Here are the top five recreational activities that attract RV campers to this beautiful park.

Hiking

The park boasts over 14 miles of hiking trails that wind through lush forests past waterfalls and alongside the Caney Fork River. The most popular trail is the Laurel Falls Trail a 2.6-mile round trip hike that leads to a stunning 80-foot waterfall.

Fishing

The Caney Fork River is known for its excellent trout fishing with rainbow brown and brook trout swimming in its clear waters. The park has several fishing spots including the iconic Twin Falls and the Great Falls Dam.

Biking

The park offers over 8 miles of mountain biking trails that cater to all skill levels. The most popular trail is the Spur Trail which leads to the beautiful Great Falls Dam.

Camping

The park has over 10 primitive campsites that are perfect for RV campers who want to get away from it all. Each campsite has a picnic table fire ring and access to clean drinking water.

Climbing

The park is also a popular destination for rock climbing enthusiasts with over 100 climbing routes that range from beginner to advanced levels. The most popular climbing area is the Big Rock Climbing Area which offers stunning views of the park.

Rock Island State Park is also a great destination for RV campers who prefer alternative recreational activities that don’t involve sweating too much. Here are the top five alternative recreational activities that attract RV campers to this beautiful park.

Sightseeing

The park is home to several historic landmarks including the Great Falls Dam the Old Cotton Mill and the Rock Island State Park Museum. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of these landmarks to learn about the park’s rich history.

Nature Watching

The park is teeming with wildlife including deer turkeys and over 100 species of birds. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the park’s forests and meadows to observe these animals in their natural habitat.

Picnicking

The park has several picnic areas that offer stunning views of the Caney Fork River and the surrounding forests. Visitors can pack a lunch and enjoy a peaceful picnic in one of these scenic spots.

Photography

The park’s stunning landscapes and wildlife make it a popular destination for photographers. Visitors can capture breathtaking photos of the park’s waterfalls forests and wildlife.

Swimming

The park’s clear waters are perfect for swimming particularly in the summer months. Visitors can take a refreshing dip in the Caney Fork River or the Blue Hole a popular swimming spot near the park’s entrance.

Season-specific experiences in Rock Island State Park

Springtime at Rock Island State Park brings a myriad of recreational activities for RV campers. One popular destination is the Great Falls a picturesque waterfall located near the park’s entrance. Visitors can enjoy a scenic hike to the falls which offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities.

Another springtime favorite is the Rock Island State Park Arboretum home to over 200 species of trees and plants. The arboretum is an ideal spot for nature lovers to take a leisurely walk and learn about the local flora and fauna.

For history buffs the Rock Island State Park Historic District is a must-visit. The district features several historic buildings including the Rock Island State Park Inn and the Rock Island Mill. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the park’s rich history and the people who once called it home.

Anglers will enjoy fishing in the Caney Fork River which runs through the park. The river is home to a variety of fish including rainbow trout brown trout and smallmouth bass.

Finally birdwatchers will want to visit the Rock Island State Park Bird Observatory. The observatory offers guided birdwatching tours and is home to a variety of bird species including the endangered cerulean warbler.

Summer is a great time to visit Rock Island State Park with plenty of recreational activities to enjoy. One popular summer activity is swimming at the Rock Island State Park Beach which offers a sandy beach and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can also rent kayaks and paddleboards to explore the Caney Fork River.

Another summer favorite is the Rock Island State Park Nature Center which offers interactive exhibits and educational programs for all ages. Visitors can learn about the park’s wildlife geology and history.

For those looking for a challenge the Rock Island State Park Trail System offers over 10 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to difficult. The trails offer scenic views of the Caney Fork River and the surrounding hills.

history lovers won’t want to miss the Rock Island State Park Civil War Site. The site features several historic buildings and interpretive signs that tell the story of the park’s role in the Civil War.

Finally summer is the perfect time to enjoy a picnic at one of the park’s many picnic areas. Visitors can enjoy a meal while taking in the beautiful scenery and watching the wildlife.

In the fall Rock Island State Park offers a variety of recreational activities for RV campers to enjoy. One popular activity is hiking along the park’s scenic trails which are adorned with vibrant fall foliage. The park’s iconic Twin Falls located on the Collins River is a must-see destination during the fall season. Visitors can hike to the base of the falls and take in the breathtaking views.

Another popular fall activity is fishing in the park’s many streams and rivers. The park is home to a variety of fish species including rainbow trout smallmouth bass and catfish. RV campers can fish from the banks of the rivers or rent a boat from the park’s marina.

For history buffs a visit to the Rock Island State Park’s historic mill and water wheel is a must. The mill which dates back to the 19th century is a testament to the area’s rich past. Visitors can tour the mill and learn about the history of the area and the importance of the mill to the community.

The park also offers horseback riding trails which are a great way to take in the fall scenery. RV campers can bring their own horses or rent them from a nearby stable.

Lastly the park’s campsites which are located along the river offer beautiful views of the fall foliage and are a great place to relax and unwind.

During the winter months Rock Island State Park offers a variety of recreational activities for RV campers to enjoy. One popular activity is ice fishing on the park’s many streams and rivers. The park is home to a variety of fish species including rainbow trout smallmouth bass and catfish. RV campers can fish from the banks of the rivers or rent a boat from the park’s marina.

Another popular winter activity is hiking along the park’s scenic trails which are covered in a blanket of snow. The park’s iconic Twin Falls located on the Collins River is a must-see destination during the winter season. Visitors can hike to the base of the falls and take in the breathtaking views of the frozen falls.

For history buffs a visit to the Rock Island State Park’s historic mill and water wheel is a must. The mill which dates back to the 19th century is a testament to the area’s rich past. Visitors can tour the mill and learn about the history of the area and the importance of the mill to the community.

The park also offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails which are a great way to take in the winter scenery. RV campers can rent equipment from the park’s visitor center.

Lastly the park’s campsites which are located along the river offer beautiful views of the winter landscape and are a great place to relax and unwind.

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Up to 10% OFF RV Rental*
(Limited time offer expires soon)
Up to 10% OFF RV Rental*