Blackburn Fork River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Blackburn Fork River |
|
|---|---|
| Other name(s) | Blackburn Fork State Scenic River |
| Country | United States |
| State | Tennessee |
| Cities | Cookeville |
| Physical characteristics | |
| River mouth | Roaring River 36°20′50″N 85°33′44″W / 36.34735°N 85.56227°W |
| Basin features | |
| Waterfalls | Cummins Falls |
The Blackburn Fork River is a beautiful river in Jackson County, Tennessee. It starts near Cookeville, Tennessee, and flows into the Roaring River. A "tributary" is like a smaller river or stream that flows into a larger one. This river is famous for Cummins Falls, a tall 75-foot waterfall!
The river runs right through Cummins Falls State Park. Many people enjoy hiking, swimming, and fishing along the Blackburn Fork River. It's a great place for outdoor adventures!
Contents
Where the River Begins
The Blackburn Fork River actually starts when two smaller streams meet. These are called West Blackburn Fork Creek and East Blackburn Fork Creek. Both of these creeks are quite large. They begin in the northern part of Putnam County. Then, they flow into Jackson County before joining together.
East and West Creeks
East Blackburn Fork Creek flows through the northern areas of Cookeville. You can see it if you drive on Dodson Branch Road. West Blackburn Fork Creek goes through the suburbs between Cookeville and Baxter. Gainesboro Grade crosses over this creek. When these two creeks meet, they form the Blackburn Fork River.
A Special Scenic River
The Blackburn Fork River has a special title: it's a Tennessee State Scenic River. This means it's recognized for its natural beauty and importance. Another river, the Spring Creek River, also has this special title. Spring Creek is the other main stream that flows into the Roaring River.
Exploring the River's Path
Soon after the two creeks join, the river flows under Cummins Mill Road. This road leads right into Cummins Falls State Park. The park is home to the amazing Cummins Falls waterfall. This waterfall is very popular with both local people and tourists.
After the river leaves the state park, it flows alongside Blackburn Fork Road. This road is curvy and narrow, offering a scenic drive. It connects Cummins Mill Road to Dodson Branch Road. Dodson Branch Road is located east of Gainesboro, Tennessee, near the Roaring River.
