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Living in Tennessee
Monday, December 09, 2024

8 Best Tennessee Lakes for Lakefront Property

Tennessee Lake House

Not everyone first thinks of Tennessee as a state for waterfront property. People typically consider it for its mountains. However, Tennessee has about half a million acres of lakes and 50,000 miles of streams and rivers. What does that mean for you, the home buyer? The lakes in Tennessee mean you don’t need to choose between living in the mountains or waterfront. You can have both!

Add to that Tennessee’s incredible housing affordability and low property tax rates. Why wouldn’t you want to buy a waterfront home in Tennessee?

Of course, not all lakes and rivers have waterfront access or property for sale. The US Army Corps of Engineers created some reservoirs that do not permit residential structures along the shoreline. However, there are plenty of lakes that do! Find these lakes from the Appalachian Mountains across the rolling foothills to the western plains and the mighty Mississippi. Check out these best lakes to live on in Tennessee:

Introduction to Tennessee Lakefront Living

Tennessee is a paradise for those who love lakefront living. With its numerous lakes, reservoirs, and scenic waterways, the state offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and relaxation. From the majestic Great Smoky Mountains to the rolling hills of Middle Tennessee, the state’s diverse geography provides a wide range of lakefront living options. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, an adventure-filled getaway, or a family-friendly community, Tennessee’s lakes have something for everyone.

Imagine waking up to the serene views of a sparkling lake, with the promise of a day filled with adventure and relaxation. Whether you prefer kayaking through calm waters, fishing in well-stocked lakes, or simply enjoying the natural beauty from your lakefront porch, Tennessee offers it all. The state’s lakes are not just about water activities; they are about a lifestyle that combines tranquility with the thrill of outdoor adventures.

Norris Lake and Reelfoot Lake

Norris Lake TN

Probably the star of all the lake options, Norris Lake is one of Tennessee’s cleanest lakes. Not only is it clean, but this man-made reservoir is massive! With 34,000 acres of water and 800 miles of shoreline, Norris Lake pushes up the Powell and Clinch Rivers.

Located in northeastern Tennessee, the Cumberland Mountains surround Norris Lake. The result is sparkling deep blue water and scenic views. Wildlife management areas, three state parks, and 59 public access sites keep the shoreline pristine. Spot eagles, deer, herons, and more enjoying the lake, too.

Norris Lake offers a variety of water activities such as boating, fishing, and kayaking, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

But Norris Lake is not all rural. With 21 marinas, the lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and water sports. Believe it or not, scuba diving is a popular activity!

Just 20 miles from Knoxville, it’s convenient to a large metro area with an airport for easy transport, work, and live entertainment. Some properties are vacation homes catering to weekends away from the Knoxville hustle. However, plenty are owned by full-timers who love the peacefulness of lake living. Anderson is the closest community to the lake. Depending on where you buy, Maynardville or New Tazewell may be closer for your shopping needs.

Douglas Lake

Douglas Lake Tennessee

Discover the beauty and excitement of Douglas Lake, nestled in the scenic foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. With over 1.7 million visitors each year, this stunning location draws people for its boating opportunities and scenic views. Locals and visitors come for the fishing, camping, and swimming all year round. The waters cover 30,400 acres and run 43 miles back from the Douglas Dam.

Located near the mountain towns of Sevierville, Dandridge, Newport, and White Pine, Douglas Lake is conveniently situated for exploring popular tourist towns like Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. The combination of entertainment attractions and the lakefront makes for incredible recreational opportunities.

As the top crappie lake in East Tennessee and one of the top five in the nation, Douglas Lake is ideal for fishing enthusiasts. It’s also ranked in the top ten for largemouth bass and regularly hosts professional tournaments in the spring and fall.

For nature enthusiasts, the Rankins Bottom area is a must-see birding spot in East Tennessee. The French Broad River, Pigeon River, and Nolichucky River feed this magnificent lake and are also destinations for fly fishing and whitewater rafting.

Most of the lake is highly rural, with large swaths owned by the TVA. However, there are developed sections with lake views and access, making owning a home on Douglas Lake a real treat.

Chickamauga Lake

Chickamauga Lake Tennessee

Chickamauga Lake near Chattanooga is known for its scenic beauty and abundant wildlife. Lonely Planet has ranked it among the “Best in the US” because of its quality fishing and access to big-city amenities.

It covers 57 miles and 36,200 water acres between the Watts Bar and the Chickamauga Dam in Hamilton County. When you add together the Tennessee River and tributaries, Chickamauga Lake has over 800 miles of shoreline.

The southern end is busier with jet skiing and power boating, as it’s closer to Chattanooga and its suburbs. As you move away from the Watts Bar Dam, the lake shore becomes quieter, offering excellent fishing opportunities. Eight scenic parks and two wildlife areas highlight southern Tennesee’s natural beauty. The varied habitat is home to many fish species, with several bass types, walleye, sunfish, and sauger.

If you want to settle down, the lakefront has plenty of spacious estates in quiet neighborhoods and towns. Chattanooga surrounds the lower end of the reservoir, including the suburbs of Harrison and Lakesite. The smaller town of Dayton is about midway on the lakefront.

Kentucky Lake

Kentucky Lake Tennessee

Although most of Kentucky Lake lies in Kentucky, it extends miles into western Tennessee, making it another option for stunning lakefront properties. Its vast size and excellent fishing make Kentucky Lake a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and the perfect getaway destination.

TVA built the dam on the Tennessee River in 1944 for flood control and electricity generation. The resulting lake is massive, with a whopping 2,000+ miles of shoreline and 160,000 acres of water and extending into western Tennessee. That earns it status among the largest artificial lakes in the US. Sections of the lake are two miles wide!

A good chunk of that shoreline is in Tennessee. Large parts are protected as the Big Sandy Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge, the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, and smaller historic parks and recreation areas. But the lake is also highly accessible, with multiple marinas and public boat ramps.

On the Tennessee side, the lakefront towns include Big Sandy, Dover, and New Johnsonville. These small towns have few permanent residents and tend to cater to vacation homes. Properties tend to be rural, making for a rustic lakefront retreat. Kentucky Lake is a paradise for the nature lover, with abundant wildlife enhancing its natural appeal.

Old Hickory Lake

Old Hickory Lake Tennessee

Named after Tennessee native and 7th US President Andrew Jackson, whose nickname was “Old Hickory,” this reservoir is conveniently just a few miles northeast of Nashville. The former President’s home, The Hermitage, is near the Cedar Creek Campground off the lake.

Formed by the Old Hickory Lock and Dam constructed in 1952, the lake section stretches for about 97 miles and covers approximately 22,000 acres with water. The waterway is a part of the Cumberland River, so it winds and twists following the riverbed. Outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking are popular here, making it a great destination for nature enthusiasts.

If you’re looking for waterfront fun near Music City, Old Hickory Lake won’t disappoint. Eight commercial marinas plus many other public access areas help locals get out on the lake for a day of sailing, paddle boating, or pleasure craft. The lakefront facilities include camping, pier fishing, and hiking at the parks surrounding the lake. Visitors can spot diverse wildlife, including waterfowl and wading birds, making it a perfect spot for photography and bird-watching.

But it’s also easier to find homes along this lake’s shoreline. Much of Hendersonville, TN, is lakefront, and several other towns and neighborhoods increase your choices. The western shoreline is closer to Nashville, more developed, and has more housing options. As you head eastward, there are more parks and undeveloped lands.

Percy Priest Lake

Percy Priest Lake Tennessee

Percy Priest Lake frames the east side of Nashville and its suburbs. Its proximity to Nashville attracts locals for water sports and outdoor activities.

The Army Corps of Engineers dammed the Stones River. The created a lake covering 14,000 acres for 42 miles.

The western shoreline has more infrastructure. Find five commercial marinas and at least seven public boat launches. The surrounding lakefront parks have camping, horseback riding, hiking, and biking facilities. You’ll spot sailboats, rowing boats, water skiing, wakeboarding, and bass fishing on the waters.

One of its best perks is that the lake is about 15 minutes from Nashville, depending on where you buy a home. It’s also beside the suburbs of La Vergne and Smyrna. Percy Priest Lake is Nashville’s easiest choice for lakefront and waterfront living. Lakefront communities include Woodland Point, Harbour Town, Priest Lake Park, Villages of Long Hunter, and Forest Ridge.

Tellico Lake

Tellico Lake Tennessee

Tellico Lake has been a hidden gem on the Little Tennessee River, but that secret is getting out if the new developments along its peninsulas and shores are any indication. It was formed in 1980 when the Tellico Dam was completed. The waters extend 33 miles into the Little Tennessee and 20 miles up the Tellico Rivers. A canal connects it to Fort Loudoun Lake.

With 357 miles of shoreline, this East Tennessee wonder has a reputation for clean water and is a popular destination for water sports. The reservoir reaches a depth of 80 feet. It has a current, unlike other man-made lakes. Part of the lake forms the Great Loop with the Tennessee River.

Living here, you get stunning views of the Smoky Mountains framed by crystal-clear waters. Residents access miles of pristine waters for kayaking and motorboat adventures at its marinas and public access points. Find more shoreline public access at state parks, including Fort Loudon State Historic Park. A visit is worth it for the views and to check out its reconstructed British fort used as an outpost in the French and Indian War.

Tellico Lake is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities. National bass tournaments draw the sport’s best in hunting for large and smallmouth, crappie, walleye, and sauger.

Along the shoreline are the towns of Sweetwater, Vonore, Greenback, and Madisonville. There are also residential master-planned communities like Tellico Village and Rarity Bay.

Dale Hollow Lake

The calm waters of Dale Hollow Lake lure outdoor adventurers in all four seasons. Besides the excellent opportunities for fishing and boating, Dale Hollow is prized as a getaway destination with multiple campgrounds and lakefront cabins. Bass fishing is particularly prized, with record-sized smallmouth bass caught here. Below the dam, exceptional trout fishing and the Dale Hollow National Fish Hatchery are also available.

The Dale Hollow Dam on the Cumberland River creates 620 miles of shoreline, much of it rural and protected. The clean water straddles the Kentucky border, with the nearest town being Celina, TN.

Scenic Lakes in Tennessee

Tennessee is home to over 540,000 acres of lakes, offering endless opportunities for boating, fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the great outdoors. Some of the most scenic lakes in the state include Reelfoot Lake, Old Hickory Lake, Percy Priest Lake, and Dale Hollow Lake. These lakes offer stunning views, diverse wildlife, and a range of recreational activities that make them perfect for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and nature lovers.

Reelfoot Lake, with its sun-kissed beaches and unique cypress trees, is a haven for birdwatchers and nature photographers. Old Hickory Lake, situated near Nashville, combines the charm of lakefront living with the convenience of city amenities. Percy Priest Lake, also close to Nashville, is a hotspot for boating and fishing, attracting locals and tourists alike. Dale Hollow Lake, known for its clear waters and excellent fishing, offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Whether you’re looking to spend a day boating, fishing, or simply enjoying a picnic by the water, Tennessee’s scenic lakes provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable outdoor adventure. These lakes are not just bodies of water; they are destinations that offer a blend of relaxation and excitement for everyone.

Median Home Sale Prices at Tennessee Lakes

When considering lakefront property in Tennessee, it’s essential to understand the median home sale prices at various lakes to align with your budget and lifestyle needs. Here’s a snapshot of the median home sale prices at some of Tennessee’s most popular lakes:

  • Cherokee Lake: With a median home sale price of $296,922, Cherokee Lake offers affordable options for those seeking a scenic and tranquil setting.

  • Center Hill Lake: The median home price here is $300,000, making it a competitive choice for buyers looking for a balance of beauty and value.

  • Chickamauga Lake: At $319,000, Chickamauga Lake provides a slightly higher price point, reflecting its stunning views and abundant recreational opportunities.

  • Douglas Lake: Known for its fishing and natural beauty, Douglas Lake’s median home price stands at $310,050.

  • Old Hickory Lake: Close to Nashville, Old Hickory Lake has a higher median price of $535,000, ideal for those wanting proximity to the city while enjoying lakefront living.

  • Percy Priest Lake: With a median price of $485,000, Percy Priest Lake is a prime location for those seeking a vibrant community near Nashville.

  • Reelfoot Lake: Offering the most affordable options, Reelfoot Lake has a median home price of $97,900, perfect for budget-conscious buyers.

  • Dale Hollow Lake: Known for its serene environment, Dale Hollow Lake has a median home price of $208,000.

  • Watts Bar Lake: With a median price of $343,300, Watts Bar Lake is an attractive choice for those seeking a mix of relaxation and recreation.

These prices reflect the diverse range of living experiences available across Tennessee’s lakes, catering to various preferences and financial considerations.

Boating Fishing and Outdoor Activities Around Tennessee Lakes

Tennessee lakes offer a plethora of outdoor activities beyond just their stunning views. Hiking trails weave through the picturesque landscapes surrounding many of these lakes, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to explore the natural beauty of the region. For example, Panther Creek State Park near Cherokee Lake boasts more than 30 miles of hiking trails, while Harrison Bay State Park by Chickamauga Lake is perfect for birdwatching, with over 100 avian species to observe. Pickwick Landing State Park features two easy hiking trails, making it accessible for all levels of adventurers.

Water sports are a major draw for visitors and locals alike. The crystal clear waters of Tennessee lakes provide the perfect setting for water skiing, paddleboarding, and other aquatic adventures. Whether you’re skimming across the surface of Norris Lake or enjoying a leisurely paddle on Tellico Lake, the options are endless. Additionally, picnicking at scenic spots around the lakes is a popular pastime, offering a chance to relax and soak in the serene surroundings. Birdwatching at Reelfoot Lake is particularly popular due to its diverse wildlife, and Tellico Lake offers trails at Fort Loudon State Historic Park for those seeking a historical hike.

If you’re looking for a place to swim, Watauga Lake features a sandy swimming beach at Shook Branch Recreation Area, providing a perfect spot to cool off and enjoy the water. With such a wide range of outdoor activities, Tennessee lakes cater to every interest, making them ideal destinations for both adventure and relaxation.

Fishing Adventures in Tennessee Lakes

For fishing enthusiasts, Tennessee lakes offer thrilling fishing adventures. Anglers can catch a variety of fish species, including bass, crappie, sunfish, walleye, catfish, and trout. Chickamauga Lake is renowned as a top destination in the United States for fishing record-setting largemouth bass, making it a must-visit for serious anglers. Cherokee Lake draws fishermen with its abundant bass, crappie, walleye, sauger, and catfish populations. Old Hickory Lake is equipped with eight public fishing piers, providing ample opportunities for casting a line. Percy Priest Lake offers a diverse fishing experience with all types of bass, crappie, sunfish, catfish, bluegill, and trout available for the catch.

Whether you’re exploring the hiking trails or casting a line, Tennessee lakes provide endless opportunities for both adventure and relaxation.

Tennessee Lakefront Living and Recreational Opportunities

This list is a small sampling of the lakefront living available in Tennessee. These choice lakes have thousands of acres of waterfront and residential options to explore. But you can find even more lakefront properties, some with limited residential options, at reservoirs like Watts Bar, Tims Ford, or Watauga Lakes. Watauga Lake sits at nearly 2,000 feet in elevation at full pool too. A local real estate agent can help you narrow down your ample choices for lakefront living in Tennessee.

Finding the Right Lake for Your Lifestyle

With so many lakes to choose from, finding the right one for your lifestyle can be a daunting task. However, by considering factors such as location, size, recreational opportunities, and community amenities, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect lake for your needs.

For example, if you’re looking for a lake with plenty of boating and fishing opportunities, you may want to consider lakes like Douglas Lake or Cherokee Lake. These lakes are known for their vibrant recreational scenes and are perfect for those who love to stay active on the water. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more peaceful and secluded lake experience, you may want to consider lakes like Tellico Lake or Watauga Lake. These lakes offer a quieter, more serene environment, ideal for those who prefer a slower pace of life.

Tennessee’s lakes offer a wide range of options to suit every lifestyle and interest. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or someone looking for a family-friendly community, there’s a lake in Tennessee that’s perfect for you. Take the time to explore your options, and you’ll find that Tennessee’s lakes offer the perfect blend of beauty, recreation, and relaxation.

FAQ

What is the nicest lake in Tennessee?

That will be a matter of personal opinion and preference. All the lakes listed could be considered nice for their listed reasons, from their recreational opportunities to scenic views. Generally, Norris Lake, Cherokee Lake, and Dale Hollow Lake frequently appear on ranked lists.

What is the cleanest and clearest lake in Tennessee?

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) regulary tests its reservoirs for their sediment quality, bottom life, dissolved oxygen and other related measures. The Blue Ridge Reservoir consistently had “excellent” ratings over a 26-year testing period. Chickamauga Lake only had two years not rated “excellent,” and in those years it was considered “fair.”  Melton Hill Lake and Wautauga Lakes also trended near the top for cleanliness. These are only the TVA-tested lakes.

What is the best lake to retire on in Tennessee?

Tellico Lake has purpose-built retirement communities with lakefront living, Tellico Village and Rarity Bay. These combine exceptional amenities like golfing and social clubs with the relaxed pace of life found in a beautiful outdoor setting.

What is the best lake to buy a house at in Tennessee?

Again, that answer depends on your lifestyle and budget. Douglas Lake homes trend towards higher price tags because they are near the tourist center of Pigeon Forge. Those seeking a rural lifestyle may prefer other lakes, like Fontana Lake or Watts Barr.

What lake in TN has a town under it?

It’s a good bet that if it’s a large, manmade reservoir there’s a town underneath the waters. Couchville residents moved in the 1960s to make way for Percy Priest Lake near Nashville. The 1850s town of Await hides under Tim Ford Lake. Loyston hides under Norris Lake. These are just three of many underwater ghost towns in Tennesee Lakes.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tennessee Lakes

This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about Tennessee lakes. From the nicest lakes to the cleanest and clearest, and even the best lakes for retirement or buying a house, we cover it all.

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Preston Guyton

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