Ozone Falls
Swimming hole in Crossville, Tennessee · Waterfall
Ozone Falls is a falls swimming hole. It is near Crossville, Tennessee. Access is free. Best season: Late spring through early fall, particularly May to September, when the weather is warm and the waterfall is at its most vibrant.
Typical season: Late spring through early fall, particularly May to September, when the weather is warm and the waterfall is at its most vibrant
About Ozone Falls
Ozone Falls sits in Tennessee along Fall Creek. Swimmers come for a natural day on the water without resort amenities. Here, Fall Creek hurls itself 110 feet off a sandstone ledge, crashing into a cool, clear pool that seems almost too perfect to be real. The surrounding amphitheater of mossy rock walls and overhanging forest canopy creates a sense of total seclusion. Even though the site is surprisingly accessible from the road. It's the kind of place that stops you mid-step and makes you just stare for a moment before you remember you came here to swim. The falls sit within the boundaries of Cumberland Trail State Park, framed by ancient geological formations that tell the story of millions of years of water cutting through stone. The rock face is streaked with mineral stains in shades of rust, charcoal, and cream, and the mist from the plunge hangs in the air on warm days, catching the light filtering through the tree canopy above. The forest here shifts with the seasons. Brilliant green in late spring, lush and humming with insects in midsummer, blazing with color in early fall. No lifeguards patrol Ozone Falls. Facilities are limited, so judge depth, current, and weather when you arrive.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- Falls
- Water body
- Fall Creek
- Fee
- Free
- Nearest town
- Crossville
- State
- Tennessee
- Coordinates
- 35.88015, -84.80913
- Best season
- Late spring through early fall, particularly May to September, when the weather is warm and the waterfall is at its most vibrant.
- Access difficulty
- Moderate; easy access to the top of the falls but a steeper descent to the pool below. Suitable for most visitors with proper footwear.
- Parking
- Designated area
- Restrooms
- None on site
- Lifeguard
- None — assume unguarded
- Land manager
- State park / recreation agency
- Activities
- Swimming
- Facilities
- No facilities available on-site; you should bring your own water, snacks, and essentials for the day.
- Listing last updated
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visitLate spring through early fall, particularly May to September, when the weather is warm and the waterfall is at its most vibrant.
- AccessModerate; easy access to the top of the falls but a steeper descent to the pool below. Suitable for most visitors with proper footwear.
- FacilitiesNo facilities available on-site; you should bring your own water, snacks, and essentials for the day.
Highlights & features
- 110-foot plunge waterfall
- Natural swimming pool
- Hollywood filming location
- Seasonal beauty
- Accessible hiking trails
- Cinematic history as a Disney filming location
- Part of Cumberland Trail State Park
- Easily accessible yet feels remote
How to get there
Ozone Falls lies in Tennessee near Crossville, Crab Orchard, and Rockwell. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Ozone Falls is a stunning natural . Follow the directions below for a safe and enjoyable visit. Driving Directions:
From Crossville
Begin by heading east on Interstate 40 (I-40).
Take the Crab Orchard exit (Exit 329).
At the end of the exit ramp, turn left onto Crab Orchard Road. Continue to the intersection with Route 70 (US-70). Turn right onto Route 70 heading east. Drive about 4 miles on Route 70. Ozone Falls will be on your right-hand side. Look for the designated parking area near the falls. From Knoxville: Begin by heading west on Interstate 40 (I-40).
Take the Crab Orchard exit (Exit 329).
At the end of the exit ramp, turn right onto Crab Orchard Road. Continue to the intersection with Route 70 (US-70). Turn right onto Route 70 heading east. Drive about 4 miles on Route 70. Ozone Falls will be on your right-hand side. Look for the designated parking area near the falls.
Parking and Trail Information
The parking area lies directly off Route 70 and is clearly marked. It is free and accommodates a moderate number of vehicles. From the parking area, follow the trail directly ahead to view the top of Ozone Falls. This trail is relatively short and provides an excellent vantage point to see the waterfall from above. To access the base of the falls and the ). This trail descends gently toward the road before transitioning to a rockier path. At the halfway point, you’ll have a clear view of the falls and the pool below. From here, the trail becomes steeper but manageable, leading down to the base of the falls. Exercise caution on this section, as the rocks can be slippery.
Helpful Tips
Wear sturdy footwear suitable for hiking, as the trail to the base of the falls involves uneven terrain and rocks. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities at the site. Be mindful of your footing, especially near the base of the falls, as the area can be slippery. Ozone Falls is a busy spot, so arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the site with fewer crowds. Have a safe visit to Ozone Falls, one of Tennessee’s most beautiful natural landmarks! 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
Ozone Falls works well as a day trip from Crossville or Crab Orchard. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Nearby options include Piney River Tennessee Swimming Destinations (about 12 mi away) and Obed Scenic River Swimming Holes (about 15 mi away). For the full list in Tennessee, see our state directory.
Access & fees
Access is via an unofficial, unmaintained trail. Parking is available off US-70. There are no restrooms, changing areas, or trash services. The site can be crowded, especially on weekends and in summer.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Ozone Falls?
Yes. Ozone Falls near Crossville, Crab Orchard, and Rockwell in TN has waterfall / cascade pools on Fall Creek used for swimming. Rocks are slippery and there are no lifeguards at informal access.
Is Ozone Falls free?
Access is generally free (fee listed as “None”). Confirm any parking or day-use rules on site, and pack out trash.
How do you get to Ozone Falls?
Ozone Falls is in TN within day-trip range of Crossville, Crab Orchard, and Rockwell. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
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Map & location
Culture & history
Featured in Disney's live-action 'The Jungle Book', highlighting its cinematic appeal and cultural importance.
Conservation
Preserved as part of Tennessee's natural heritage; visitors should follow Leave No Trace principles to protect wildlife and plant life.
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.