The Blue Hole, one of the Chattanooga area’s favorite swimming spots, will be closed for 2026.
Construction of a new parking area at North Chickamauga Creek Gorge State Park will force the closure of the main parking area and block access to the popular Blue Hole for about one year, according to state officials.
The project, intended to add features bringing the public land up to state park standards, will enhance parking by adding asphalt and striping, improve the entrance to the park, install an accessible pier for river viewing, and include a restroom facility, according to a press release from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation. The work will begin soon.
“We are excited about these new features coming to our park. Unfortunately, the work will curtail parking and close access to the Blue Hole,” park manager Sarah Geeslin said in the release. “We want visitors to know what to expect, and we appreciate their patience while we make these upgrades. Safety is our highest priority.”
All the popular water holes that can be reached from the main parking area will be closed, officials said, including the popular Blue Hole, about one mile from the parking area.