Natural swimming hole
Citico Creek
Creek · Tennessee
Community-reported spot. Details below are compiled from public sources and are reported to be accurate — always verify locally before visiting.
About this swimming hole
Citico Creek is one of the wildest swims in the Cherokee National Forest, a tumbling mountain stream lined with deep emerald pools and small cascades. The gravel Citico Creek Road follows the water for miles, giving anglers and swimmers easy access to one swimming hole after another. It is a local favorite for beating East Tennessee heat without the park crowds.
Good to know
| Water type | Creek |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | Cold mountain water |
| Depth | Deep pools between cascades; generally swimmable |
| Best season | Late spring through early fall |
| Fees | None |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | Daylight hours |
| Parking | Roadside pull-offs along Citico Creek Road (gravel) |
| Amenities | Dispersed camping, Trailheads |
| County | Monroe |
| Nearest town | Tellico Plains |
| Safety notes | Remote with no services or lifeguards; road can be rough; flash floods possible. |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Citico Creek?
Yes — Citico Creek is listed as a natural swimming spot in Tennessee. Reported water temperature: Cold mountain water. Heads-up: Remote with no services or lifeguards; road can be rough; flash floods possible.. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Citico Creek require reservations?
No reservations are required at Citico Creek based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Citico Creek?
Reported fee info: None. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Citico Creek?
The best season is typically Late spring through early fall.