Many happy couples have chosen to recite their vows at Norris Lake, making it an important part of their new life together. And while others only commit to wet toes in the sand, the memories are just as lasting. The lake has many attractions to cater to your entertainment needs. Step out of your lake-view property and head into Anderson County for a comforting sip of honey wine at Shady Grove Meadery, or make a point to savor a delightful dose of culture and dance with the Oak Ridge Civic Ballet Association during one of their locally sourced productions. With many great attractions that cater to any entertainment preference, your time at Norris Lake will be unforgettable.
Just 30 minutes north of Knoxville, Norris Lake was created by the first dam built by the Tennessee Valley Authority, just after the organization was formed in 1933 and it now spreads out to cover 34,200 acres. Norris Lake extends 72 miles up the Clinch River and 56 miles up the Powell River, providing an abundance of secluded coves. The lake has 800 miles of wooded shoreline in this ridge and valley region of Tennessee, with a maximum width of 1.2 miles.
The lake is also nationally known for water-skiing. Smooth water has attracted professional waterskiers for many years. It's an ideal environment for sportsmen and vacationers. Norris Lake can be accessed from numerous Eastern Tennessee cities such as Lake City, Caryville, La Follette, Powell Valley, Tazewell, and Maynardville.
Norris lake has 800 miles of shoreline 34,000 acres of surface water,a Caribbean-like 96% purity rating, dept visibilities at nearly 20 feet-over 70% of Norris lake's shore line is owned and preserved by the Tennessee Vally Authority. Golf Course: professional 6800 yard golf course designed by Bobby Clampet; includes driving range and practice greens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Jet Skis:
Are they permitted? Yes
Swimming:
Can you swim in the lake? Yes
Water Quality?
Pristine
Water Level:
Average water level variance? 25 feet. Full pool- 1020 ft above sea level.
Boat Docks:
Are they permitted? Yes
Power Boats:
Are they permitted? Yes
Depth of Lake:
200 ft.
Nearby Cities:
Knoxville, TN (about 30 minutes) and LaFollette, TN (close to resort; grocery, fast food, some shopping)
Nearest Airport:
Private airstrip at Deerfield Resort (3,200 ft at field elevation of 1,360); nearest airport is Knoxville, TN
Building Restrictions:
SunsetBay Owners Association
Covenants.
Fishing Information
Fishing is the most popular activity on the Norris Lake. Fish varieties include walleye, sauger, white bass, crappie, striped bass, catfish, bluegill, largemouth and smallmouth bass and spotted bass. Catches of Brown and Rainbow trout are abundant. Fishing guide service is available.
Fishing follows seasonal patterns. Most winter fishing is concentrated in the headwaters of the reservoir and in the mouths of tributary streams. In early spring, some species begin spawning runs. Walleye and sauger travel upstream into the Clinch and Powell Rivers.
Good reservoir fishing is available from March through June. Crappie fishing is best in April and early May. Bass and walleye fishing peaks in May and June. Hair jigs and deep running plugs are effective for most species in early spring. Spinners and worms are standard walleye bait.
During summer months, night fish for white bass and white crappie using live bait and lights. Black bass fishing, particularly small mouth, picks up again in the fall. White bass, white crappie, and walleye are caught by shallow trolling and still fishing with minnows.
Boating Information
A half dozen marinas are scattered around the lake to serve boaters.
A large, completely equipped commercial marina is located near the Norris Dam State Park dam.
Boats available for rent: houseboats, pontoon and ski boats.
Tennessee administers two large game management areas (Chuck Swan and Cove Creek Penninsula) at the lake as well as three state parks (including Big Ridge State Park and Norris Dam State Park) and 59 public access areas. There are also three county parks at the lake.
Norris Dam State Park 90 sites, 50 water & electric. RECREATION: swim pool. No Pets. Open all year. The Norris Dam State park has two camping areas with 25 sites in the east section and 50 sites in the west section of the park. Sites have tables, grills and electrical and water hookups, while some sites in the east primitive section lack these facilities. Modern bathhouses and dump stations are provided, and a laundrymat is located near the park Village Green Complex adjacent to the pool and recreation center. Sites are available only on a first-come, first-serve basis, and maximum stay limit is two weeks. A primitive camping area is available to scout and other youth groups by reservation only.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Big South Fork National Recreation Area
Cumberland Gap National Park
Big Ridge State Park: 52 sites, 48 water & electric. RECREATION: swim lake. Open all year.
Fox Inn Campground Open, level pull-thru sites near interstate. From jct I-75 (exit 122) & Hwy 61: Go 1000 feet E on Hwy 61. Entrance on left. 98 sites, 24 full hookups, 74 water & electric (20 & 30 amp receptacles), 42 pull-thrus, big rigs welcome, long-term phone hookups. RECREATION: swim pool, fishing, clubs welcome. Rates in 1996 $13.50-17 for 2 persons. Discover, Master Card, Visa accepted. Open all year. Phone: 423-494-9386
Loyston Point (TVA - Norris Lake) 51 sites. RECREATION: swim lake. Open from mid Apr through mid Oct.
Fisherman's Paradise is the perfect place for the fisherman or a family retreat. Sleeps 8 and includes a covered boat slip at the marina. This beautiful, clean and clear lake offers great spring and fall fishing for a variety of fish. Please visit our website to view a picture of the house and the fabulous view it offers. http://www.stallardonline.com/norrishome.htm
SPECIAL WINTER RATES NOW AVAILABLE
For more camping information:
http://www.recreationusa.com/camping/tennessee.html
Local Area Businesses
Nearby attractions include:
Eagle Bend Fish Hatchery
Jackson Square Historic Park
Lenoir Pioneer Museum and 18th century Gristmill
American Museum of Science and Energy
Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge
Oak Ridge Nuclear Power Plant
Museum of Appalachia
Norris Dam, a hydro electric dam whose construction was completed in 1936. The dam is 265 feet high and 1,860 feet long. It contains a million cubic yards of concrete.
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