Baby Falls On The Tellico River
Swimming hole in Knoxville, Tennessee · Waterfall
Baby Falls On The Tellico River is a falls swimming hole. It is near Knoxville, Tennessee. Access is free. Best season: Summer (June to August) for swimming.
Typical season: Summer (June to August) for swimming
About Baby Falls On The Tellico River
Baby Falls On The Tellico River gives you falls swimming access near Knoxville in Tennessee. Expect a natural bank, not a built beach. A 15-foot cascade tumbles down the Tellico River into a wide, deep pool so inviting that once you see it, the only question is how quickly you can get in. Don't let the name fool you. There's nothing small about waiting for you here. The Tellico River valley is the kind of scenery that makes you pull over and stare. Ridgelines draped in hardwood and hemlock rise on either side of the river corridor, and the road leading to Baby Falls winds through shade-dappled forest that stays cool even on the hottest July afternoons. When you arrive at the falls, the first thing you'll notice is the sound. The steady, rushing white noise of water meeting rock. And then the visual: a broad sheet of water sliding over a ledge and crashing into a pool that shimmers between turquoise and jade depending on the light. One of the more surprising features is the top of the falls itself, where a dense, moss-like growth of algae gives the rock surface a texture that visitors often describe as resembling astro-turf. It's as visually unusual as it is memorable. Surrounding the whole scene is the wild, unhurried beauty of Cherokee National Forest, where the treetops close overhead and the outside world seems very far away. Swimming, Jumping, and Sliding The deep natural pool at the base of Baby Falls is the main event. The pool's depth makes it a legitimate jumping destination, and you'll see visitors of all ages launching themselves off rocks at the falls' edge. Swim at your own risk at Baby Falls On The Tellico River. Check conditions after rain and respect any posted closures.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- Falls
- Water body
- Tellico River
- Fee
- Free
- Nearest town
- Knoxville
- State
- Tennessee
- Coordinates
- 35.32650, -84.17570
- Best season
- Summer (June to August) for swimming.
- Access difficulty
- Moderate - Accessible via scenic drives and short walks, but requires caution on slippery rocks and near strong currents.
- Parking
- Designated area
- Restrooms
- None on site
- Lifeguard
- None — assume unguarded
- Cliff jumping
- Reported
- Camping
- Nearby there are several camping areas in the National Forest.
- Land manager
- U.S. Forest Service
- Activities
- Swimming, Jumping, Tubing, Sliding
- Facilities
- No facilities on-site. Nearest amenities are in Tellico Plains, about 6 miles away.
- Listing last updated
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visitSummer (June to August) for swimming.
- AccessModerate - Accessible via scenic drives and short walks, but requires caution on slippery rocks and near strong currents.
- FacilitiesNo facilities on-site. Nearest amenities are in Tellico Plains, about 6 miles away.
- Camping nearbyNearby there are several camping areas in the National Forest.
Highlights & features
- 15-foot cascading waterfall
- Deep pool for swimming and jumping
- Unique astro-turf-like surface on falls
- Surrounding Cherokee National Forest
- Nearby Bald River Falls and campgrounds
- Astro-turf-like grass at the falls' top
- Deep natural pool perfect for jumping
- Proximity to multiple waterfalls and campgrounds
How to get there
Baby Falls On The Tellico River lies in Tennessee near Knoxville, Tellico Plains. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go.
Starting Point: Knoxville, TN
Begin your journey by taking I-75 South from Knoxville. Continue for about 50 miles until you reach the exit for Route 68 (Sweetwater exit).
Exit onto Route 68 South and follow it for about 35 miles to reach the town of Tellico Plains.
From Tellico Plains to Baby Falls
3. In Tellico Plains, turn onto Route 165 East (Cherohala Skyway) and drive for about 5.25 miles.
4. Turn right onto Tellico River Road (Forest Road 210). This road is also referred to as the Cherohala Skyway.
5. Follow Tellico River Road for about 6 miles until you reach Bald River Falls, a prominent landmark. Bald River Falls is a stunning waterfall visible from the road and offers a great photo opportunity. Parking is available in designated pull-off areas near the falls.
6. Continue driving on Tellico River Road for an additional 0.25 miles to reach Baby Falls. Look for parking areas along the road near the falls.
Details About Baby Falls: Baby Falls is a 15-foot waterfall with a deep, large pool at its base, making it a popular . Exercise caution, as river currents can be strong, especially after heavy rainfall. Visitors can access the pool area by climbing down from the roadside. There are shallow areas upstream from the falls where you can relax or wade in the water. Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking the road. Safety Note: Always assess water conditions before swimming. High currents can be dangerous, and jumping from the falls should only be done with extreme caution. Alcohol consumption is strongly discouraged, as accidents have occurred in the past. Wear sturdy footwear if climbing around the falls, as rocks can be slippery. Optional Nearby Stop: Davis Branch Campground If you wish to explore further, continue driving on Tellico River Road (FR 210) for about 9 miles past Baby Falls to reach Davis Branch Campground. This area offers additional . Look for signage indicating the campground entrance. Parking is available within the campground. Coordinates for Baby Falls: Latitude: 35.3265 Longitude: -84.1757 Google Maps URL: [ http://maps.google.com/maps?&z=10&q=35.3265,-84.1757+\(TN_BABY\)+\ ()] Have a safe visit to Baby Falls and the surrounding Tellico River area! Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.
Plan your visit
Baby Falls On The Tellico River works well as a day trip from Knoxville or Tellico Plains. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Pair the swim with a stop at Nantahala Gorge Swimming Spots (about 22 mi away) or browse more Tennessee waterfall spots in our directory. For the full list in Tennessee, see our state directory.
Access & fees
This is an unofficial, natural area with no facilities. Parking is limited to roadside pull-offs. There is no fee indicated, but always check for posted regulations. The site is accessed by a short, unmaintained climb down from the road.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Baby Falls on the Tellico River?
Yes. Baby Falls on the Tellico River near Knoxville and Tellico Plains in TN has waterfall / cascade pools on Tellico River used for swimming. Rocks are slippery and there are no lifeguards at informal access.
Is Baby Falls on the Tellico River free?
Access is generally free (fee listed as “No”). Confirm any parking or day-use rules on site, and pack out trash.
How do you get to Baby Falls on the Tellico River?
Baby Falls on the Tellico River is in TN within day-trip range of Knoxville and Tellico Plains. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
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Nearby swimming holes
Map & location
Culture & history
Part of the Cherokee National Forest, the area holds historical significance as a natural resource and recreational hub in East Tennessee.
Conservation
Practice Leave No Trace principles. Avoid littering and protect the fragile ecosystem. Stay on designated trails to minimize impact.
Sources & updates
Official land managers cited on this page
Always confirm current rules, closures, and fees on the agency site before visiting.
Reference sources
Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.