It’s the time of year when many people start thinking about vacations. If you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway, lakes in Tennessee might be your best bet. The lakes offer an escape from the bustle and heat of city life, with plenty to do and see all around them: fishing, boating, swimming… whatever you like to do on vacation! Here are some great lakes in Tennessee that we think would make a perfect one- or two-night stay for anyone who wants to enjoy what nature has to offer.
This site is designed to help you plan your next Tennessee lake vacation. We’ve assembled a massive amount of data on the state’s lakes to help you find the right destination for your next trip. We can help you find:
- The best Tennessee lakes for swimming
- The best lakes for boating in Tennessee
- The clearest, most beautiful lakes in Tennessee
Sandy beaches, swimming holes, amazing fishing spots – check out the full list of lakes as you plan your getaway!
Find Tennessee Lakes Near You
Family swimming areas? Check. State parks with boat launches? Check. Read on to learn more about some of our favorite Tennessee lakes in no particular order.
The best lakes to visit in Tennessee
First up, we have the lakes in Tennessee that offer a type of vacation all their own. Norris Lake and Pickwick Lake are two good examples of lakes that offer houseboat rentals. If you’re not familiar with houseboats, they’re basically floating houses on the water (incredibly picturesque ones at that). Renting one of these lakeside homes allows you to enjoy all the comforts and amenities of home while also offering an unparalleled view of the scenery around you. You can fish or swim from your deck or dock; sunbathe; relax… really do anything you like! Houseboat rentals at lakes in Tennessee like this make for a memorable way to relax and recharge after a long week at work or school.
You might be surprised to learn that lakes in Tennessee are great for fishing! One of the lakes known for its excellent fishery is South Holston Lake. Here, you’ll enjoy multiple opportunities to try out your favorite fishing techniques. At one end of this lake, you’ll find a special type of boat called an anchored float tube – ideal if you’re looking for some extra action with your fishing! This lakeside haven also boasts plenty of different types of fish species. Some lakes are more popular than others when it comes to fishing, but there are multiple lakes in Tennessee that will keep any angler happy!
If you’d rather relax on your lakeside vacation, lakes in Tennessee can offer just what you need. For example, Norris Dam Marina on Norris Lake offers cabins that are perfectly suited for lakeside getaways. These homes feature breathtaking views of the lake and give you an excellent chance to enjoy just why lakes in Tennessee rank so highly among vacationers all over the country.
Alcoa is a small town in Tennessee with a big attraction: J. Percy Priest Lake. Lakes in Tennessee like this can be great for active people who want to make the most out of their lakeside home by going outdoors and enjoying everything nature has to offer! The area around J. Percy Priest Lake features many walking trails, which makes it an ideal destination for anyone who likes taking long walks or hikes with family and friends when on vacation. Families especially appreciate the fact that there’s plenty to do at lakes in Tennessee that are appropriate for kids of all ages.
Eventually, you’ll have to come back from your lakeside vacation… but lakes in Tennessee are so enjoyable, you might just want to extend your stay! There are plenty of lakes in Tennessee where vacation homes are available for extended stays or even year-round living. If lakeside living sounds appealing to you, lakes like Watts Bar Lake, Lake Barkley Lakefront Homes, and Pickwick Lake can give you the opportunity to live next door to one of Tennessee’s most beautiful lakes!
Hickory Lake is a lakeside community with just about everything you need. In fact, there’s so much to see and do here that it might be best for people who have at least a long weekend or two to spend by the lake! One of the first things you’ll likely notice is Hickory Hills Cafe & Marina. There are lakes in Tennessee like this one where you can start your vacation off on the right foot by grabbing a delicious bite to eat! People often head to lakes in Tennessee near restaurants like this because they know they’re always going to get great food.
Chickamauga Lake is a lakeside community with an interesting name. But lakes in Tennessee like this one have more to offer than just a catchy name! One of the lakeside parks here is especially popular. Not only can you make use of any recreational equipment there, but it’s located within easy reach of several attractions including restaurants and boat rentals. People who plan to spend time on the water should keep Chickamauga Lake in mind when planning their lakeside vacation because it has so much to offer anglers and boaters alike!
If you’re looking for lakes in Tennessee that fall under the radar, look no further than Dale Hollow Lake. Here, you’ll find great accommodations surrounded by beautiful nature – truly a winning combination for your lakeside getaway! Lakes in Tennessee like this one are relaxing, but if you’re looking for something more adventurous, you can always rent a boat or jet skis. Because lakes in Tennessee like these are so popular, it’s best to think ahead and make plans well in advance of your lakeside vacation.
Say goodbye to crowded city life and embrace nature with a trip through Tennessee. Lakes offer an escape from the hot summer heat – perfect if all you want is some time to relax and enjoy yourself. You can even try out lakeside living or houseboat rentals if you’re ready for a lakeside vacation that will be unlike anything else!
Tubing, picnics, boating, and more – Tennessee lakes offer endless opportunities to explore and experience the great outdoors with friends and family all around you. If you haven’t done so already, make plans to visit one of our favorite lakes in Tennessee by checking out our list below. You’ll be glad you did!