Collins River

The Collins River originates in the east central portion of Tennessee along the Cumberland Plateau and flows 67 miles to the confluence with the Caney Fork River upstream of Great Falls Dam. The five mile scenic river segment lies within a narrow gorge at the Savage Gulf State Natural Area. Like most large streams in the area it flows predominantly underground appearing as a dry stream except during periods of heavy rainfall when it can become swift and treacherous. Waterfalls along this reach drop over limestone ledges and flow into sinks disappearing until resurfacing at the mouth of river.  Beyond the scenic river stretch, the Collins River is one of few rivers in Tennessee with a good population of muskie (muskellunge).  A strenuous 9 mile loop trail in the Savage Gulf State Natural Area provides the only access to the river gorge. The Collins Gulf Trail is accessible by the Collins West trailhead on 55th Ave. in Gruetli-Laager.

Quick Facts

• Located in Grundy County
• Approximately 6.4 miles designated
•  First designated a Class II Pastoral River Area in 1968.

Designation History

• April 4, 1968: Designated a Class II Pastoral River Area as "That segment from its normal flow source at the Big Spring, two (2) miles north of Beersheba Springs, to its confluence with Great Falls Lake."
• March 22, 1984: Designation amended to "That segment which lies within the Savage Gulf natural-scientific area."

Points of Interest