Rock Island Venues
Warning Alert

Safety Closures in Effect at Rock Island State Park

Rock Island State Park

The following alert is important for all Rock Island State Park visitors

TVA Great Falls Dam and/or the TVA Great Falls Powerhouse may release water on an irregular schedule. Water discharge may change day to day or even hour to hour. All river gorge areas downstream of the TVA Dam are closed when the dam is in Active water spill mode or a discharge is likely for the day. Before planning your visit, please check TVA's website for Great Falls Dam and Powerhouse for the most current water discharge schedule. Visitors are encouraged to check the discharge schedule often. Discharge schedules can change rapidly based on lake levels, rainfall forecasts, etc. Water releases may occur with or without warning any time you are near a TVA dam or powerhouse. Visitors should be prepared for a quick exit should they hear warning sirens or notice water rising. Life jackets and hiking shoes are strongly encouraged in this area.

The park has also seen very high visitation over the last year. Please do not park on roadsides or in non-designated areas. If the park is full, please consider visiting another state park in the area.

Please check the park’s Facebook page for updates before your visit.  

Know Before You Go

Rock Island State Park

The park often experiences high visitation. Please do not park on roadsides or in non-designated areas. If the park is full, please consider visiting another state park in the area.

Also, please check the status of the Caney Fork River Gorge section of the park before visiting, as access is dependent on approval from TVA based on hourly water release predictions. Gorge closures may occur without notice and can be in place for varying lengths of time. Learn more on our safety information page.

Rock Island Gorge Safety

Rock Island State Park

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFO: Please note that swimming or wading is not permitted downstream of the Powerhouse at any time, regardless of water releases. Check TVA’s website for water release information and dam safety data at: www.tva.gov/Environment/Lake-Levels/Great-Falls.

  • Waterfall cascading over rocks surrounded by green trees.
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    Reservations

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    Host your next event at Rock Island

    Rock Island State Park offers several reservable picnic shelters for group gatherings and outdoor events. These pavilions include basic amenities like picnic tables and grills, with capacities suited for small to larger-sized groups.

    Pavilions

    Rock Island State Park has six picnic shelters/pavilions that may be reserved for your next event or gathering. Depending on the shelter, the maximum capacity ranges from 50 to 75 people. The shelters are equipped with picnic tables, and many have a grill and access to restrooms. 

    Full day shelter reservations may be made online or by calling the park. 

    Picnic shelters/pavilions may be reserved online up to one year in advance with a paid reservation fee. There is a $5 cancellation fee for picnic shelter or pavilion reservations cancelled eight days or more in advance of the reserved date. Reservations cancelled seven days or less in advance of the reserved date forfeit all paid fees.

      • Concrete pavilion in a park with picnic tables and trees in the background.
      • Covered shelter with picnic tables, surrounded by trees.

      Rock Island Sandbar Shelter A

      Average rates: $78
      Capacity: 75 guests

      The sandbar pavilion provides a stunning setting for group gatherings, picnics, birthday parties, or weddings. Electric service & interior lighting is available. The shelter includes large grill and fire ring area directly below individually reserved side.

      Side A consists of half of the shelter & grill area closest to the swim beach. Side B consists of half of the shelter & grill area closest to the boat ramp. Each side may be reserved jointly if a guest wants the privacy of the entire pavilion. *Note restrooms & lower level are open to the public.
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      • Modern pavilion with ramps and stairs in a park setting.
      • Covered shelter with picnic tables, overlooking a tree-lined path.

      Rock Island Sandbar Shelter B

      Average rates: $78
      Capacity: 75 guests

      The sandbar shelter provides a stunning setting for group gatherings, picnics, birthday parties, or weddings. Electric service & interior lighting is available. The shelter includes large grill and fire ring area directly below each side.

      Side A consists of half of the shelter & grill area closest to the swim beach. Side B consists of half of the shelter & grill area closest to the boat ramp. Each side may be reserved jointly if a guest wants the privacy of the entire pavilion. *Note restrooms & lower level are open to the public.
      Reserve Now
      • Outdoor pavilion with a black roof, surrounded by trees.

      Rock Island Campground Shelter

      Average rates: $60
      Capacity: 50 guests

      This shelter is ONLY available to paid campground and cabin occupants. It is an ideal location for a quiet picnic or group gathering.

      Parking is limited at this shelter. Guests are allowed to park at the tennis court lot. Driving/parking on the grass or blocking campground roads is not permitted.
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      • Wooden picnic shelter in a forest setting with picnic tables.

      Rock Island Deaton Field Shelter

      Average rates: $42
      Capacity: 75 guests

      The Area 2 / Deaton Field shelter provides the ideal location for birthday parties, reunions, or family picnics. Electric service is available. Shelter is located adjacent to softball, basketball, volleyball, horseshoe, & playground areas. Ballfields, playground equipment, & surrounding picnic space are first come, first serve.

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    Rates subject to change. Taxes and fees are not included. 

    Discover More at Rock Island

    Visit The Gift Shop

    The Visitor Center Gift Shop is the perfect place to pick up a map, learn about the park, or find a souvenir. You’ll find an assortment of apparel and keepsakes to remember your trip to the park. 

    Address:
    82 Beach Road, Rock Island TN, 38581

    Hours: 
    8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

    Explore the Park

    Inspiration

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    Other Activities at Rock Island State Park