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Playspot: USA, Tennessee, Rocky Creek (Caney Fork), Rock Island

What's it like

A big powerful round foam-pile. Either side can be surfed like a glassy wave. You can perform all rodeo moves and then some.

The pile is foamy and you can see longer boats (8 ft+) better when throwing ends. The hole will hold you, but stick a move the wrong way and it will spit you out. Be careful: you may hit the rock shelf below. The scenery is spectacular, as the spot is located adjacent to a waterfall that is formed by dammed water leaking through the rock strata.

It runs at various levels, which depend on the dam release (The Great Falls Dam must be generating, otherwise the playspot is flat. When it runs it is usually during the week. See also under More info).

Approximately 150 yards upstream is an awesome glassy wave that you can 360 on. All playspots at Rock Island are accessible on river left and right via excellent eddies.

How to get there

South of Cookeville, TN. The park entrance is located near the junction of  routes 70 and 287 (there are signs that will direct you towards the park). Go into the park, take a right and drive over the dam. Take a left after the dam and follow the road to the river.

More info

There is a recorded message stating the release of the last eight hours (it also tells you the projected release, without guarantee): dial +1-800-238-2264 and then press 4 - 9 - 36. Levels of 1 to 2 kcfs are OK.

Locals

Fisherman (seem friendly) and a lot of sun-bathing snakes.

Info sources

Matthew McOsker