🌤 Weather at Hawkins Cove State Natural Area by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 34–74 °F | 60–83 °F | 34–78 °F | 26–49 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Coalmont, 11 mi away, elevation 1,856 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Cumberland Escarpment Cove — Sandstone gorge and cove forest on the Cumberland Plateau edge
Hawkins Cove State Natural Area preserves a dramatic sandstone gorge and cove forest on the escarpment of the Cumberland Plateau. The steep-walled gorge creates microclimates supporting plant communities ranging from dry ridge-top oak to moist cove hardwoods, with rock shelters and seasonal waterfalls adding to the geological interest.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Cumberland Plateau escarpment, TN |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Habitat | Sandstone gorge, cove forest |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there trails?
Trail access may be limited. Check with Tennessee Division of Natural Areas. The terrain is rugged with steep gorge walls.
About Hawkins Cove
Hawkins Cove State Natural Area in Marion County protects a forested cove on the Cumberland Plateau escarpment. The steep slopes and sheltered cove support rich mixed mesophytic forest — a forest type that is among the most diverse temperate forests in the world. The Cumberland Plateau edge creates dramatic elevation changes.
Hawkins Cove State Natural Area in Franklin County protects a rugged Appalachian cove forest on the Cumberland Plateau escarpment — where the plateau drops 1,000 feet to the Tennessee Valley. Cove forests in the southern Appalachians are among the most biologically diverse temperate forests on Earth, harboring 130+ tree species (more than all of Europe). The north-facing coves trap moisture and create cool, rainforest-like microclimates.
Things to Do
Hiking through the diverse cove forest, birdwatching, wildflower viewing, and studying the rich mixed mesophytic forest ecosystem — one of the most biodiverse temperate forest types on Earth.
Hiking through old-growth cove forest, wildflower viewing (spring wildflower displays are extraordinary), birdwatching for forest-interior species, nature photography, and studying one of the world’s most biodiverse temperate forests.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Morrison Meadow State Natural Area (a short drive away) or Stone Door Trail (a short drive away).
🏞️ Visit Hawkins Cove SNA
Sandstone gorge on the Cumberland Plateau edge — cove forest and rock shelters.
Wildlife & Nature
Hawkins Cove SNA — preserves a rich mountain cove with diverse forest communities. The park’s hardwood forest, stream, and rocky outcrops support white-tailed deer, barred owls, and woodland salamanders. Wildflowers bloom profusely in spring.
Nearby Attractions
Eastern Tennessee communities — surrounding.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Hawkins Cove State Natural Area
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Dogs, cats and other pets are permitted in Tennessee State Parks, including all campgrounds, if leashed, crated or otherwise under physical restrictive control at all times.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- 6 ft physical leash required; pets must not be left unattended
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited on designated swimming beaches and at pools at all times
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets prohibited in park lodges and cabins except designated pet-friendly units; each park offers a limited number of pet-friendly lodge rooms and one pet-friendly cabin ($20 per pet per night)
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No day-use or campground pet fee; $20 per pet per night in designated lodge rooms/cabins
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Park management may post additional no-pet areas on trails; proof of rabies vaccination may be required
Are dogs allowed at Hawkins Cove State Natural Area?
Dogs, cats and other pets are permitted in Tennessee State Parks, including all campgrounds, if leashed, crated or otherwise under physical restrictive control at all times. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via tnstateparks.com. More: Tennessee state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Hawkins Cove State Natural Area
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
