Knoxville has always been an outdoor wonderland with the lakes of the Tennessee Valley and numerous state forests, parks, wildlife management areas and of course, the #1 visited National Park - the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. But, in the spring and summer all eyes and boats turn toward the sparkling blue of the Great Lakes of the South.
As the Holston and French Broad Rivers flow toward Knoxville, they form the Tennessee River. You can fish, swim, boat or sail or explore world-class whitewater venues. There are other options for water viewing activities include camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, wildflower scouting, birdwatching and history or educational opportunities.
East Tennessee’s precious cool lakes are certainly most inviting in the heat of the summer. So, boating and swimming are at the top of everyone’s agenda. Take your pick - Norris Lake, Melton Hill Lake, Douglas Lake, Cherokee Lake, Fort Loudoun Lake, Tellico Lake or Watts Bar Lake.
More than 3,700 miles of shoreline for your retirement or second home. You will love the mild four seasons, the lakes, the mountains, the sports, the university and the discoveries from Oak Ridge associated science.