Tennessee wasn't always known as a lake destination, but throughout the early years of the 20th century, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) worked to create reservoirs along the Tennessee River Valley in order to improve access to electricity throughout the region. Today, these human-made Tennessee lakes have become vacation destinations in their own right, allowing local residents and visitors to spend endless hours enjoying the unparalleled scenic beauty of the Volunteer State.
Below, we detail the nine best lakes in Tennessee to experience the scenic outdoors on your upcoming trip.
1. Dale Hollow Lake
- Located: North of Nashville near the Kentucky Border
- Best for: Families who want to enjoy a camping vacation
Spanning more than 27,000 acres along the Tennessee and Kentucky border, Dale Hollow Lake has become known as a serene escape from the rigors of daily life. It's a popular camping destination, attracting young couples, growing families and adults who want to reconnect with nature. Visitors to Dale Hollow Lake often comment on the quiet solitude of the lake. There are very few places left where the sounds of nature ring out loud and clear, but birdsong and gentle waves are the soundscape of this region.
Perhaps one of the most surprising activities to enjoy at Dale Hollow Lake is scuba diving. Near the outlet of Sulphur Creek, experienced scuba divers can dive into the waters of this reservoir in order to see the sunken foundations of the communities that once called this land home.
2. Douglas Lake
- Located: East Tennessee in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains
- Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy boating and birdwatching
Formed by the Douglas Dam, this massive reservoir has become one of the top lakes in Tennessee. The lake itself was formed in 1942, after construction on the record-setting dam was completed and it quickly became a vacation destination for campers and travelers who want to experience the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Boating is one of the most popular activities on the lake and even if you don't have your own boat to bring, you can rent a pontoon from a nearby marina. Those that cast a line into the waters of Douglas Lake may be lucky enough to catch crappie or largemouth bass.
While Douglas Lake is a popular spring and summertime travel destination, it's also an excellent place to go if you want to enjoy natural, scenic beauty during the winter months. In the winter, the waters of the lake are lowered to improve flood control in the region, and the muddy shores attract migratory birds that are traveling south. Avid birdwatchers often find themselves visiting during this quiet season.
3. Reelfoot Lake
- Located: Tiptonville, Tennessee
- Best for: Wildlife enthusiasts who want to immerse themselves in the state's natural beauty
While most of the lakes in Tennessee are human-made reservoirs, Reelfoot Lake has the distinction of being known as the only large natural lake in the state. With a depth of about 18 feet throughout the entire lake, it might be better characterized as a shallow marsh. Fishing and boating are popular and those who visit are always impressed by the majestic cypress trees that line the shores. In addition, Reelfoot Lake is home to a large population of bald eagles. To witness them in all of their glory, visit anytime from November through March, through January and February are considered to be the peak season.
4. Norris Lake
- Located: North of Knoxville in Northern and Eastern Tennessee
- Best for: Families and couples who want to enjoy a trip filled with boating, fishing and swimming
Norris Lake was the first lake formed from one of the TVA dams and that fact in and of itself makes it one of the best lakes in Tennessee. However, this large lake has also become one of the most popular family vacation destinations in the state, bringing in travelers of all ages who enjoy hiking, biking, fishing and swimming.
Known as one of the cleanest Tennessee lakes, Norris Lake is a favorite among those who love boating and fishing. More than 14 species of fish can be found in this lake, including largemouth bass, smallmouth Bass, striped Bass, walleye, paddlefish and more.
Norris Lake is truly a year-round destination, as the landscape transforms from one season to the next. Spring, in particular, is a beautiful time to visit, as the wildflowers add bright pops of color to the magnificent River Bluff Trail that winds around the perimeter of the lake.
5. Center Hill Lake
- Located: Middle Tennessee in DeKalb, Putnam, White and Warren Counties
- Best for: Hikers who are in search of waterfalls
Stretching for more than 64 miles, the impressive Center Hill Lake is one of the largest and best lakes in Tennessee. Attracting travelers who are passionate about visiting the state parks in Tennessee, this lake provides unprecedented access to some of the most spectacular natural sights in the region. The lake is situated in the heart of Tennessee and it enjoys a comfortable year-round climate, which means that visitors can always enjoy fun on the water. In addition to boating and fishing, travelers often embark on the hiking trails that can be found throughout the state parks and lead to waterfalls and other natural wonders.
6. Nickajack Lake
- Located: Near Chattanooga, Tennessee
- Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts who want to spend their vacation fishing
Situated just outside of Downtown Chattanooga and featuring more than 127 miles of shoreline, Nickajack Lake provides a natural escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The lake itself is a bass fishing paradise, attracting avid fishermen from across Tennessee and around the country who appreciate the high catch rate in this lake.
While you may be getting on board a boat in order to enjoy a day of fishing on Nickajack Lake, you'll find that the wildlife spotting is also impressive in this area. Most notably, the lake is home to a partially-flooded cave. While you can't travel into the cave itself, if you time your visit right, you may be able to see the members of the bat colony flying in and out each evening.
7. Chilhowee Lake
- Located: Eastern Tennessee along the Boundary of the Great Smoky Mountains
- Best for: Motorcyclists and campers who want to enjoy peace, solitude and uninterrupted views
Tucked away between the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Cherokee National Forest, Chilhowee Lake is one of the best places in Tennessee to soak up the stunning scenery for which the Southeastern Appalachian Region is known. This reservoir is a relatively quiet destination, though it has increased in popularity among motorcyclists and campers who enjoy riding along the U.S. 129 highway. The highway, which has earned the nickname Tail of the Dragon due to its sharp, winding turns, is a favorite among motorcyclists who enjoy combining the scenic beauty with the thrill of the ride.
8. Cherokee Reservoir
- Located: Eastern Tennessee in Grainger, Hawkins and Jefferson Counties
- Best for: Families who want to enjoy fishing, boating and scenic views
The Cherokee Reservoir appears like an oasis in the midst of the rolling hills of Tennessee and has rightfully earned the nickname of the most beautiful lake in Tennessee. Known for its crystal clear waters and serene atmosphere, the Cherokee Reservoir has become a favorite family vacation destination in the region. This massive lake boasts more than 400 miles of shoreline and popular activities include bass fishing, boating, hiking and biking.
Families will find that there are several campgrounds around the lake, as well as cabins, resorts and small hotels, allowing everyone to find a place to stay that is both comfortable and affordable. This year-round destination is spectacular any time of the year, but it's especially beautiful when the fall colors arrive. No matter when you decide to visit, you will be able to enjoy boating, fishing and all of your favorite water sports.
9. Percy Priest Lake
- Located: Near Downtown Nashville
- Best for: Couples and groups of friends searching for a natural escape from the sights and sounds of Nashville
When locals in Nashville need to escape the relentless summer heat, they head straight to Percy Priest Lake — the sparkling reservoir that is located just 10 miles outside the downtown area. As one of the best lakes in Tennessee for boating and fishing, this destination has become a popular day trip for those who are staying in the city. Young adults who are celebrating bachelor and bachelorette parties with their friends often find that it's an excellent place to go to unwind after a few days of dancing and celebrating in the Music City. In fact, many fun-loving visitors are booking party boat rentals with increasing regularity, allowing them to create a floating event with barbecue food, music and endless good times.
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