Rhea County Department of Tourism

07/28/2026

A huge thank you to Hannah and family for sharing your wonderful video review of BlueWater! It means so much to see families enjoying one of Rhea County’s true treasures.

Nestled along the beautiful shores of Lake Chickamauga, BlueWater RV Resort & Marina offers waterfront RV sites, cabins, a marina, great fishing, and the perfect place to relax and make memories with family and friends. It’s easy to see why so many visitors fall in love with this special place. (bluewaterdayton.com)

Come see why so many people are discovering that the best adventures are waiting right here in Rhea County! 🏕️🎣☀️

07/28/2026

Great job Michelle and our Leadership team on the City’s first paddle event.

07/28/2026

What an awesome hike to Stinging Fork Falls - another gem of Rhea County.

Thank you to Anna for guiding this hike! Be on the lookout for the next one: Snow Falls - August 22.

07/27/2026

Last week, I had the privilege of participating in McDonald Farm planning meetings and discussions surrounding Tennessee's future 70th State Park.

The new state park will encompass approximately 2,500 acres, including nearly 1,300 acres of the historic McDonald Farm, spanning Hamilton and Rhea counties near Graysville. The park will also connect to the Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail State Park, creating incredible opportunities for hiking, outdoor recreation, conservation, tourism, and economic growth throughout our region.

As planning moves forward, your voice matters! Tennessee State Parks is asking for public input to help determine the future amenities, recreational opportunities, and overall vision for this incredible new destination. The public survey is open through the end of August, and we encourage everyone to take a few minutes to participate:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/TSP70PublicLink

It is truly an honor to be part of these planning conversations and to help represent the interests of Rhea County. Projects like this have the potential to transform our community for generations—bringing new visitors, supporting local businesses, expanding outdoor recreation, and showcasing the natural beauty that makes our county such a special place to live and visit.



Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation
McDonald Farm Advisory Committee

07/25/2026

The Spring City History Museum and Depot offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the town’s rich past. Housed in the historic Spring City Depot, built in 1908 along the Southern Railway’s Cincinnati to Chattanooga line, the museum showcases the evolution of the town from its early days as a railroad hub to its present-day charm. Exhibits highlight significant events and figures, including the story of the Rhea County Spartans, a group of women who served as Confederate spies during the Civil War.

The depot itself, with its classic red roof and brick construction, stands as a testament to early 20th-century architecture and has been recognized among America’s notable railroad stations. Visitors can explore a variety of artifacts, photographs, and documents that chronicle the area’s development, offering a comprehensive understanding of Spring City’s historical significance. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, the Spring City History Museum and Depot provides an enriching experience that connects the past with the present.

07/24/2026

What an incredible day on the water! We were excited to join friends and partners from both Dayton and Spring City for the Tennessee RiverLine’s American Canoe Association Level 1 Introduction to Kayaking Skills Course.

From water safety and paddling techniques to learning how to confidently lead future paddling experiences, today was filled with hands-on training, teamwork, and a shared vision for expanding outdoor recreation in our communities. It was inspiring to see so many people investing their time and energy into creating more opportunities for residents and visitors to experience our beautiful waterways.

A huge thank you to the Tennessee RiverLine for providing this training. The knowledge and skills gained today will help us continue building memorable outdoor experiences throughout Rhea County.

Tennessee RiverLine
Visit Spring City
Town of Spring City, TN
City of Dayton TN - Government
Spring City Chamber of Commerce

07/24/2026

07/24/2026

Free Guided Sunday Afternoon Hike – Stinging Fork Falls

Date: Sunday, July 26, 2026
⏰ Time: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
📍 Location: Stinging Fork Falls Trailhead
Stinging Fork Road, Spring City, TN
Register Here so we can have a headcount: https://forms.gle/bxaR6QccWZp8rwQs8

Join us for a free guided hike led by TN Naturalist Anna McDonald, to one of Rhea County's hidden gems—Stinging Fork Falls. Nestled just outside Spring City, this spectacular 30-foot fan-shaped waterfall tumbles into a crystal-clear blue-green swimming hole surrounded by towering rock cliffs and lush forest. It's one of the area's most scenic destinations and a favorite for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers alike.
Our guided hike will take you through a beautiful hardwood forest into a secluded gorge featuring rugged rock formations, wooden staircases, and breathtaking views along the way. Once at the falls, you'll have time to relax, explore, take photos, or even cool off with a swim before making the hike back.

🥾 Hike Details
Distance: Approximately 1.5–2.8 miles round trip
Time: Plan for about 1.5–2 hours of hiking and exploring
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult due to steep descents, rocky terrain, and the climb back out of the gorge
Ages: Recommended for experienced hikers and adventurous families
Pets: Allowed on a leash
🎒 What to Bring
Plenty of water and light snacks
Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes
Water shoes if you plan to swim
Weather-appropriate clothing
Camera for incredible waterfall photos
🌄 Highlights
30-foot fan-shaped Stinging Fork Falls
Beautiful natural swimming hole
Scenic forest and secluded gorge
Wooden staircases and unique rock formations
Peaceful creek and waterfall views

☀️ Tip: Make it a full afternoon in Spring City! Explore downtown before the hike or enjoy dinner at one of our local restaurants afterward.
For lodging, dining, and more outdoor adventures, visit VisitRhea.com.

07/23/2026

A new trail connector could soon link Swinging Bridge Park and Pocket Wilderness, creating a safer route for hikers, cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts. Leaders say the project could boost tourism, attract more visitors and further establish Rhea County as a premier outdoor destination. 👀 MORE BELOW⬇️