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🏞️ River Swim  ·  East Tennessee / Cherokee NF

Blue Hole – Ocoee River

📍 Turtletown / Ocoee
Nearest Town
$3 USFS day-use fee at public accesses
Entry Fee
💧 Cold, clear
Water Temp
🟡 Moderate
Difficulty
📅 Late spring–early fall weekdays best (avoid summer weekends — high water flow)
Best Season
🏞️ River Swim 🟡 Moderate $3 USFS day-use fee at public accesses
🌊 About Blue Hole – Ocoee River

Deep, clear pool on the Upper Ocoee near the 1996 Olympic whitewater venue; popular for jumping and snorkeling.

📋 Visit Details
Entry Fee
$3 USFS day-use fee at public accesses
Water Temperature
💧 Cold, clear
Best Season
📅 Late spring–early fall weekdays best (avoid summer weekends — high water flow)
Reservation
Not Required
Water Type
River pool near whitewater center
Managed By
US Forest Service (Cherokee National Forest)
County
Polk County, Tennessee
Access Difficulty
🟡 Moderate
🗺️ Getting There

Address / Access Point:
Near Ocoee Whitewater Center, US-64, Ducktown, TN

Access Notes:
Easy access from parking lot; moderate rock-hopping to explore upriver; water-release-schedule dependent

GPS Coordinates
35.0660, -84.4608
Open in Google Maps →
✅ Before You Go — Checklist
  • ✓
    Check current water conditions — especially after recent rain
  • ✓
    Save GPS coordinates offline before leaving — cell service may be limited
  • $
    Bring cash or card for entry: $3 USFS day-use fee at public accesses
  • ✓
    Pack reef-safe sunscreen, dry bag, water shoes and plenty of drinking water
  • ✓
    Tell someone where you are going before heading to a remote location
  • ✓
    Pack out everything you bring in — leave no trace
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