East Tennessee Lakes | Knoxville Tennessee

East Tennessee is home to some of the most beautiful and popular lakes in the United States. These lakes are not only known for their breathtaking scenery, but also for their recreational activities and water sports. Cherokee Lake, Douglas Lake, Watts Bar Lake, Norris Lake, Melton Hill Lake, Tellico Lake, and Fort Loudoun Lake are the seven most prominent lakes in East Tennessee that attract thousands of visitors each year.

Cherokee Lake, located in the picturesque foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and camping. With over 30,000 acres of water surface, this man-made lake offers a wide variety of fish species, making it a perfect spot for anglers. Along with fishing, visitors can also enjoy boating, water skiing, and jet skiing on the crystal-clear waters of this lake. The surrounding area boasts several campgrounds and picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for family outings.

Douglas Lake, also known as the Douglas Reservoir, is a massive body of water covering about 30,000 acres. The lake is famous for its diverse fish population, including black crappie, bluegill, and catfish, making it a popular fishing spot. Visitors can also opt for water skiing, jet skiing, and boating on the lake, or simply relax on its tranquil shores. The nearby Smoky Mountains National Park offers visitors an opportunity to explore nature by hiking, bird-watching, or camping.

Fort Loudoun Lake, a 14,000-acre reservoir, is a popular place for boating, fishing, and camping. Located on the Tennessee River, this lake offers a tranquil and serene environment for visitors to relax and unwind. Visitors can also explore its surrounding natural beauty by hiking, biking, or bird-watching on its 365 miles of shoreline.

Norris Lake, is the clearest lake in the state of Tennessee. It is an ideal destination for fishing and boating. Visitors can catch striper, catfish, and rainbow trout on this lake, or go for a scenic boat ride to take in the breathtaking views of the mountains and forests that line its shores.

Melton Hill Lake, situated just downstream from Norris Lake, is famous for its rowing and sailing activities. Its calm and clear waters make it an ideal spot for water sports enthusiasts, and the lake hosts several rowing and sailing events every year. Visitors can also go fishing or take a leisurely boat ride on this picturesque lake.

Tellico Lake, with over 15,000 acres, is known for its stunning panoramic views and water activities. Located in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, this lake is a haven for kayaking, boating, and fishing. Its coves and inlets are perfect for paddleboarding, while its clear waters are home to a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, and crappie.

Watts Bar Lake, a 39,000-acre reservoir, is another popular spot for fishing and water sports. This lake has an abundance of bass, catfish, and bluegill, making it a dream destination for avid anglers. Water enthusiasts can also indulge in swimming, boating, and skiing on this lake’s calm and peaceful waters. The numerous marinas and campgrounds surrounding the lake offer visitors a perfect place to stay and explore its surrounding beauty.

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