Rock Creek
Unicoi, Tennessee
Swim
Fees: Yes
More Information
swimmingholes.org Tennessee Swimming Holes and Hot Springs rivers creek springs falls hiking camping
THE web site for beautiful, natural places for a cool dip or hot soak.
https://www.swimmingholes.org/tn.htmlDirections
From Unicoi, Tennessee
- Head south on Unicoi Dr toward TN-107 E (1.6 mi)
- Continue onto TN-107 W/N Main Ave (2.5 mi)
- Turn left onto TN-395 E/10th St/Rock Creek Rd (3.1 mi)
- Turn left onto Rattlesnake Ridge Trail (315 ft)
- Turn right to stay on Rattlesnake Ridge TrailDestination will be on the right(318 ft)
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