Ozone Falls State Natural Area
Nature preserve
0.1 mi
4.8 (2505)
14563 TN-1, Ozone, TN 37854
Dramatic waterfall backed by a weather-carved rock amphitheater, plus a hiking trail.
Public restroom
Waterfall And GorgeTN
Ozone Falls
By Hidden Swimming Holes Team · Record updated
Background: generated illustration, not a photograph of this location.
Plan Ozone Falls with rugged gorge-trail guidance, daylight access, parking directions and a reviewed gallery. Check water-entry rules before swimming.
Water type
Waterfall And Gorge
Access
Informal
Fee
Reviewed TDEC profile does not publish an admission or parking fee. Confirm current charges rather than relying on the inherited free-access claim.
Best season
Choose daylight after checking notices and weather. No month guarantees steady flow or suitable swimming
Nearby towns
Crossville, Crab Orchard, Rockwell
Water body
Fall Creek
Location
Map & Directions
Nearby towns
Crossville, Crab Orchard, Rockwell
Recreation-area reference location
35.88138833333333, -84.80611
Recorded coordinates have not been source-checked. Confirm the entrance and legal access before using directions.
A closer look
Photos of Ozone Falls
Photos show past visits, not current water levels or swimming conditions. Select a photo to view it larger.
Sources & checks
This is a desk-researched listing. A record update or map check does not confirm current swimming permission or water conditions.
- Swimming rules
- Official sources checked . See the rules above and check for current closures.
- Recreation-area reference location
- The map uses a recreation-area reference coordinate from the manager, not a surveyed entrance, parking space or safe water-entry point. Follow current signs and confirm access before travelling.
- Record updated
- · This is a data update, not a field visit.
Found an error? Send a correction with the location and a source. How we research listings.
Ozone Falls: choose the right hike
Ozone Falls is a state natural area beside US70. Its gorge visit and the long Black Mountain connection are different trips, not interchangeable mileage estimates.
Rugged means more than a short walk
The TDEC profile describes a rugged three-quarter-mile trail, with an out-and-back return required. It does not label that figure a round-trip distance. The descent should not be presented as easy for all visitors. Do not jump or dive into the rock-strewn pool.
Do not confuse the longer trail with the falls approach
The Conservancy section guide describes 6.7 strenuous miles between Black Mountain and Ozone Falls, with its main mileages measured from Black Mountain. For the shorter visit, use the named Ozone Falls trailhead beside US70 and current signs. The map point is a published trailhead reference, not an independently verified water entry.
Swimming needs a current check
The Conservancy lists swimming among section features, but the state's natural-area profile does not expressly confirm pool-entry permission. Ask management and obey posted restrictions. Photographs establish neither authorization nor safe depth, and this guide removes the old encouragement to jump after testing the water.
Daylight, pets and practical preparation
TDEC specifies sunrise-to-sunset visits, prohibits rappelling and camping, and lists leashed dogs as allowed but not recommended. Parking and a trail are confirmed; current fees and water-side services are not. Bring the supplies needed for a self-sufficient hike. Three reviewed historical photos show the falls, amphitheater and trailhead sign. Reviewed October 9, 2026.
Getting There
Use the official US70 approach from the Crab Orchard exit and signs for Ozone Falls. Use designated parking beside US70. The published trailhead reference is not a surveyed entrance or swimming pin.
Quick Navigation
Access Notes
Public visits are sunrise to sunset. Rappelling is prohibited. Leashed dogs are listed as allowed but not recommended.
Plan Your Visit
Parking & Access
Confirm the entrance, parking arrangements, and legal access with the land manager. A map pin does not establish a public right of access. Follow posted routes and never block gates or driveways.
Regulations & Fees
Current swimming permission has not been independently confirmed for this listing. Check official rules, fees, hours, and closures before visiting. Public park access does not necessarily include permission to swim. Respect private property and posted restrictions.
Seasonality & Flow
Water conditions can change quickly. This listing does not provide a current safety or water-quality assessment. Check official alerts and avoid entering water when conditions or permission are uncertain.
What to Bring
Bring sturdy water shoes to protect your feet on rocks and slippery surfaces. A waterproof dry bag keeps your phone, keys, and valuables safe. Pack a quick-dry towel, sun protection, and drinking water - never drink from the natural water source.
Nearby Facilities
Nearby places from saved public map data, not necessarily facilities at the swimming spot. Confirm access, hours, fees, and amenities with the operator before you drive.
Map data retrieved 2026-06-15
Ozone Falls
Waterfall
0.1 mi
4.8 (417)
Tennessee 37854
Rest Area
Parking lot
6.7 mi
3.1 (10)
I-40, Crab Orchard, TN 37723
Restroom
Daddys Creek Campsite
Campground
7 mi
3.5 (8)
Crab Orchard, TN 37723
RestroomTent sites
Obed National Wild & Scenic River Visitor Center
Visitor center
19.6 mi
4.7 (405)
208 Maiden St, Wartburg, TN 37887
Visitor center in a river park with natural history exhibits, a bookstore & tips from rangers.
Restroom
Public Restroom
Public bathroom
58.9 mi
5 (2)
35G8+X55, Silver Point, TN 38582
Live Conditions Nearby
Checking nearby USGS water conditions…
Frequently Asked Questions About Ozone Falls
Is the gorge hike easy?
TDEC calls it rugged. Short distance does not make the steep, rocky descent suitable for every visitor.
Is the falls hike 6.7 miles?
That is the Conservancy's separate strenuous Black Mountain connection. Do not transfer its mileage to the shorter trailhead visit.
Can I swim at Ozone Falls?
The Conservancy lists swimming as a section feature, but the state profile does not expressly confirm current pool access. Check management guidance and posted restrictions.
Can I jump into the pool?
This guide does not recommend jumping or diving. A photograph or depth check cannot establish a safe jump.
Can I bring a dog?
TDEC lists dogs on leash as allowed but not recommended for this natural area.
Can I camp or rappel here?
No. The official natural-area profile prohibits both camping and rappelling.
When can I visit?
The state lists sunrise-to-sunset public access, subject to current notices and posted restrictions.
Is the map pin an exact water entry?
No. It is the Conservancy's published trailhead reference, not surveyed parking or accessible swimming entry.
Highlights
Rugged gorge visit planning
Daylight access and trailhead signs
Reviewed falls and landscape gallery
Unique Features
Sandstone amphitheater around Fall Creek waterfall
Location & Area Map
Safety Information
Important Safety Tips
- Stay back from exposed edges and avoid slippery rock
- A depth check does not make a waterfall jump safe
- Turn back if the route or conditions exceed your abilities
Cultural & Historical Context
Historical Background
TDEC mentions Jungle Book filming but does not specify the year. Conflicting film-year claims are not repeated.
Photography Guide
Photo Opportunities
Three historical gallery views show the waterfall, rocky amphitheater and named trailhead sign. They do not establish current flow, safe footing or water permission.
Conservation & Ethics
Protect This Place
Carry out everything brought in. Hunting, fishing and camping are not permitted; protect the natural area and remain on authorized routes.
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Check water quality before swimming
Use this safety guide before entering any natural water.
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At a Glance
Best Time to Visit
Choose daylight after checking notices and weather. No month guarantees steady flow or suitable swimming.
Difficulty Level
Rugged gorge descent, not an easy route for every visitor. The long Black Mountain connection is a separate strenuous hike.
Fee
Reviewed TDEC profile does not publish an admission or parking fee. Confirm current charges rather than relying on the inherited free-access claim.
Facilities
Plan a self-sufficient visit; no accessible gorge route or supervised swimming service verified.
Activities
Waterfall viewing and hiking; water entry subject to current permission and conditions.
Phone
TDEC East Tennessee natural-areas office: 865-594-5601. The profile's park phone appears inconsistent, so it is not reproduced as a verified contact.
Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
Camping Information
Camping is not permitted in the natural area.
Loading weather data…
Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
- Do not swim where swimming is prohibited, unsafe, or not clearly allowed.
- Follow posted signs, local regulations, closures, and private-property boundaries.
- Assess conditions on site. Water flow, depth, temperature, and underwater hazards change quickly.
- Never jump or dive without personally confirming depth and underwater obstacles.
- Swim with a buddy and consider flotation for weak or non-swimmers.
- Pack out all trash; respect wildlife and fragile environments.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
J
Joshua Havens
Founder & Editor, Hidden Swimming Holes
Joshua Havens created Hidden Swimming Holes to make it easier for people to find — and safely visit — natural freshwater swimming destinations across the United States. He researches access conditions, water quality resources, and land management rules so you don't have to start from scratch. He holds a strong belief that good outdoor recreation information should be accurate, honest about its limitations, and freely available.
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