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Tennessee’s Ultimate Outdoor Lakes and Mountains Playground

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Tennessee’s Ultimate Outdoor Playground

The 9 Lakes Region of East Tennessee offers an exceptional array of outdoor adventures. With four national parks, five national scenic byways, two national foot trails, a national scenic river, a national forest, and nine TVA lakes, this area is a haven for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
  • National Parks / Forest
    National Parks / Forest Home to 4 National Parks and the Only National Forest in Tennessee. Cherokee National Forest The Cherokee National Forest is divided into northern and southern sections by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  The 650,000-acre forest…
  • State Parks
    State Parks East Tennessee’s Nine State Parks – Free to Explore Discover the Natural and Cultural Treasures of East Tennessee’s Nine Lakes Region Experience the Nine Lakes Region, where natural beauty meets Appalachian heritage. Discover the natural beauty and rich…
  • Campgrounds
    Campgrounds Discover More Campgrounds & RV Parks in the 9 Lakes Region of East Tennessee. Under a Canopy of Stars Nestled in the heart of East Tennessee, the 9 Lakes Region offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor…
  • Marinas
    Marinas Marinas of the Nine Lakes: Your Gateway to Lake Life. Your Gateway to Lake Life The Nine Lakes Region of East Tennessee is home to dozens of full-service marinas that make lake life easy, fun, and unforgettable. Whether you’re…
  • Norris Lake
    Norris Lake Where Mountains Meet the Water Shoreline Miles: 800 miles / Surface Acres: 34,000 acres Norris Lake, the first created by the TVA, is a top destination for year-round outdoor fun. Popular activities include houseboating, floating cabins, and island camping. Often…
  • Cherokee Lake
    Cherokee Lake Wind, Water, and Pioneer Trails. Shoreline Miles: 393 miles / Surface Acres: 30,300 acres Cherokee Lake Surrounded by gently rolling hills and scenic pastures, Cherokee Lake offers visitors an idyllic vacation setting with excellent fishing and birding habitats. The beautiful,…
  • Douglas Lake
    Douglas Lake Premier Smokies Vacation Destination for Families and Anglers. Shoreline Miles: 550 miles / Surface Acres: 30,400 acres Douglas Lake Douglas Lake, nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, is a popular destination for vacationers and anglers alike. The…
  • Fort Loudoun Lake
    Fort Loudoun Lake The First Lake on the Tennessee River Shoreline Miles: 360 miles / Surface Acres: 14,600 acres Fort Loudoun Lake Fort Loudoun Lake, the first reservoir on the Tennessee River, flows alongside of Knoxville on its journey to the Fort…
  • Calderwood & Chilhowee Lake
    Calderwood & Chilhowee Lake Serene Gems in the Smoky Mountain and Cherokee National Forest Wilderness. Shoreline Miles: 36 miles / Surface Acres: 2288 acres Calderwood & Chilhowee Lake These tranquil lakes create boundaries between the Great Smoky Mountains and the Cherokee National…
  • Melton Hill Lake
    Melton Hill Lake A Hub for Rowing, Paddling, OHV Trails, and Fishing in East Tennessee. Shoreline Miles: 173 miles / Surface Acres: 4180 acres Melton Hill Lake Melton Hill Lake is surrounded by scenic walking trails and boasts a nationally recognized rowing course,…
  • Tellico Lake
    Tellico Lake Gateway to Relaxation and Recreation. Shoreline Miles: 357 miles / Surface Acres: 15,860 acres Tellico Lake Tellico Lake offers tranquil waters perfect for boating, swimming, and fishing, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its excellent fishing…
  • Watts Bar Lake
    Watts Bar Lake Gateway to History and Outdoor Recreation. Shoreline Miles: 771 miles / Surface Acres: 39,000 acres Watts Bar Lake The largest TVA reservoir in the 9 Lakes region, is a top destination for both birding and fishing. Its extensive tributaries…