Would you like to visit the top lakes in Tennessee to appreciate the beauty of nature and make some memories?
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These 15 lakes have something for everyone, from serene places to get away from it all to stunning scenery that outdoor lovers will enjoy.
Norris Lake
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Tennessee’s biggest reservoir, Norris Lake, was created as part of a flood control project initiated in 1936. Over the last 100 years, it has created a multitude of activities and opportunities for treasure hunters, hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders, and more! And with two state parks, wildlife management areas, and marinas, it is no wonder why Norris Lake is one of the best lakes for adventurers in Tennessee!
Cherokee Lake
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Cherokee Lake is an artificial reservoir in Tennessee located near rich green farmland. It offers a glimpse into the area’s history. The lake is named for the Cherokee Nation, paddling and fishing are popular activities on the lake. Cherokee Lake is also 30,300 acres and is formed by damming the Holston River.
Old Hickory Lake
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Old Hickory Lake is one of the best lakes in Tennessee for visitors who enjoy its wide range of entertainment options, including water skiing, boating, hunting, and hiking. Best of all (or perhaps worst for the locals), the lake is only 25 miles from Nashville.
Chickamauga Lake
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This is a great example of a revision that’s plagarism-proof and will pass a grammar and spell checker with flying colors: Chickamauga Lake is a beautiful waterway that attracts many visitors who enjoy outdoor recreation. Established in 1940 by the construction of Chickamauga Dam, the lake’s 810 miles of shoreline is most popular in July when bass fishing is at its best. The lake is also located between Nickajack Lake and Watts Bar Lake, with the Hiwassee River flowing into it. This makes the reservoir an ideal place for outdoor recreation and the enjoyment of all the elements of nature.
Percy Priest Lake
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Just a short drive from Nashville, you can find Percy Priest Lake. It is a reservoir and features the J. Percy Priest Dam. It covers a whopping 14,400 acres, offering abundant outdoor activities like calm canoeing, and stimulating hikes on the 213 miles of shoreline. Also, it is one of the best places in Tennessee to fish for largemouth bass.
Chilhowee Lake
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Chilhowee Lake is a refreshing water reservoir that is more like a river. It gives a nice, calming border to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Cherokee National Park. With a nice, long history going back to 1957, the lake attracts fishing enthusiasts and paddlers because of its unique 10-mile stretch that goes all the way to Calderwood Dam. Visitors can enjoy the 1,747-acre reservoir with the nearby Foothills Parkway and the mysterious Abram’s Creek.
Tellico Lake
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Tellico Lake, in East Tennessee, has 33 miles of great recreation opportunities with beautiful clean waters. Built on the legacy of the 1979 Tellico Dam, it has 357 miles of shoreline for camping and fishing. Come visit the lake and surrounding area to experience countless adventures.
Center Hill Lake
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A shimmering jewel in Middle Tennessee and an example of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 1948 dam project, Center Hill Lake offers flood control and electricity generation. Center Hill Lake hosts a somewhat temperate climate year-round, creating a long recreation season. The lake is a place for water skiing and boating, as well as relaxing and sunbathing. Other recreation opportunities include fishing, camping, hiking, canoeing, and many more.
Reelfoot Lake
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Located in the Northwest corner of Tennessee, Reelfoot Lake is a 15,500-acre natural wonder featuring a bayou-like ditch and the Blue Basin. Formed by one of the strongest earthquakes in the United States, this unique lake offers a one of a kind landscape. Reelfoot Lake is rich in history and offers many activities year round, such as hunting, fishing and bird watching. Visitors may also enjoy seeing the abundant bald eagles and ancient cypress trees.
Douglas Lake
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With its impressive 28,000 acres, Douglas Lake is formed from the French Broad and Pigeon Rivers. With the Great Smoky Mountains in the background, Douglas Lake shaped by the Pigeon and French Broad Rivers, offers a variety of recreational activities, such as, boating, swimming, and even hosting a picnic! Douglas Lake is also extremely popular among anglers and annually attracts over 1.7 million visitors. We are considered an excellent spot for fishing Crappie and Largemouth Bass, making us #1 in Tennessee!
Watts Bar Lake
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Watts Bar Lake is a beautiful reservoir along the Tennessee River. It covers 39,090 acres and has 722 miles of shoreline. People who enjoy water sports will love Watts Bar Lake because they can paddle, fish, swim, and camp. The Watt Bar Dam was finished in 1942 during a time of war. While driving by the dam, people can see an overlook that presents a beautiful view. It is a great spot for pictures. There are many coves, islands, and sandy beaches.
Dale Hollow Lake
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Dale Hollow Lake, located on the border of Kentucky and Tennessee, has more than 27,000 acres of clear water for any recreation. Dale Hollow Lake was formed by the confluence of the Obey and Wolf Rivers and allows for exploration, boating, fishing, hunting, and enjoying the 620 miles of natural, uncultivated shorelines.
Tims Ford Lake
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Tims Ford Lake is a scenic lake in Southern Tennessee and is one of many lakes in the state that is created from the Elk River. This lake extends 34 miles upstream, creating scenic views and waterways for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Tims Ford Lake also contains some of the best bass fishing in the Southeast. Besides recreational fishing, the lake is also important for supplying water and flood control.
Fall Creek Lake
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If you want to spend time on Fall Creek Lake, which has 350 acres of water surrounded by mountains, you can rent kayaks, paddle boards, and motorized boats. From a cabin that is located by the lake, you can also enjoy the peaceful mornings and breathtaking views of nature while you do outdoor recreational activities.
Watauga Lake
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Watauga Lake is another scenic place in the Southern part of the Appalachian Mountains located within the Cherokee National Forest. This lake is the highest and most elevated in Tennessee, and it was first dammed in 1948, so it has a lot of history. Watauga Lake offers many activities from kayaking to wakeboarding, and the cool mountain air is very refreshing.
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