About this spot
Shoal Creek Falls, also known as Mill Shoals, sits where Shoal Creek meets the North Fork French Broad River at the Living Waters Christian Retreat in Balsam Grove, NC, alongside twin French Broad Falls. Both drops run about 15 feet high into a shared plunge pool. The retreat's owners allow public access via roadside parking off NC-215, with signs reading 'Private Property, Enter at Own Risk' marking the short riverside trail. The pools here are a well-documented local swimming spot for families, with boulders to sun on and shallow water for kids, plus deeper sections near the falls for adults. Rocks stay slick year-round, and flow spikes fast after rain, so check water levels before wading or jumping. No lifeguards or facilities are present.