Natural swimming hole
Metcalf Bottoms (Little River)
River · 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
Metcalf Bottoms is a popular picnic area along the Little River inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where shallow ledges and deeper pools make it a classic family swimming spot. The water runs cold and clear over smooth rock, with plenty of shoreline for spreading out on busy summer days. It sits just off Little River Road between Townsend and Gatlinburg, making it one of the easiest park swims to reach.
Good to know
| Water type | River |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | Cold mountain water, roughly 60s in summer |
| Depth | Mostly knee- to waist-deep with some deeper pools |
| Best season | Late spring through early fall |
| Fees | No entrance fee; park parking tag required |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | Daylight hours |
| Parking | Large picnic-area lot; fills on summer weekends |
| Amenities | Picnic area, Restrooms, Parking lot |
| County | Sevier |
| Nearest town | Gatlinburg |
| Safety notes | Cold, fast water after rain; no lifeguards; watch for slippery rocks. |
Map
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Metcalf Bottoms (Little River)?
Yes — Metcalf Bottoms (Little River) is listed as a natural swimming spot in Tennessee. Reported water temperature: Cold mountain water, roughly 60s in summer. Heads-up: Cold, fast water after rain; no lifeguards; watch for slippery rocks.. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Metcalf Bottoms (Little River) require reservations?
No reservations are required at Metcalf Bottoms (Little River) based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Metcalf Bottoms (Little River)?
Reported fee info: No entrance fee; park parking tag required. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Metcalf Bottoms (Little River)?
The best season is typically Late spring through early fall.