Exploring the Largest Lakes in Tennessee
Tennessee, known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities, is home to several large lakes. These lakes provide ample opportunities for fishing, boating, swimming, and other water activities for residents and visitors alike. The state’s largest lakes are spread across its various regions, each offering unique experiences and features.
In this article, we will explore the largest lakes in Tennessee, including their size, features, and popular activities. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, these lakes are sure to satisfy your desires.
Lake Size: Understanding the Metrics
Before diving into the top 10 largest lakes in Tennessee, it’s important to understand how lake size is measured. There are several metrics used to measure the size of a lake, including surface area, volume, and shoreline length.
Surface area, measured in square miles or acres, is the most common metric used to compare the size of lakes. This measures the total area of the lake’s surface when it’s at its highest water level. Volume, measured in cubic feet or gallons, is the total amount of water contained in the lake. Shoreline length, measured in miles or kilometers, is the total length of the lake’s shoreline.
The Top 10 Largest Lakes in Tennessee
- Chickamauga Lake – 56,000 acres
- Kentucky Lake – 160,000 acres
- Douglas Lake – 30,000 acres
- Norris Lake – 33,840 acres
- Watts Bar Lake – 39,000 acres
- Nickajack Lake – 10,370 acres
- Old Hickory Lake – 22,500 acres
- Center Hill Lake – 18,200 acres
- Boone Lake – 4,500 acres
- Dale Hollow Lake – 27,700 acres
The Clear Leader: Facts About Chickamauga Lake
Chickamauga Lake, located in southeastern Tennessee, is the largest lake in the state, with a surface area of 56,000 acres. It is a reservoir created by the Chickamauga Dam on the Tennessee River and is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for bass and crappie.
In addition to fishing, Chickamauga Lake offers other water activities, such as boating, water skiing, and swimming. The lake is surrounded by several parks and campgrounds, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Chickamauga vs. Kentucky: Which is Bigger?
While Chickamauga Lake is the largest lake entirely within Tennessee’s borders, Kentucky Lake, located in western Tennessee, is the largest lake in the state and the region, with a surface area of 160,000 acres. However, only a small portion of the lake is within Tennessee, with the majority located in Kentucky.
Despite this, both Chickamauga and Kentucky Lakes offer similar recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, and camping. If you’re looking for a larger lake with more expansive waters, Kentucky Lake may be the better choice.
Douglas Lake: A Closer Look at the Second Largest Lake
Douglas Lake, located in eastern Tennessee, is the second-largest lake in the state, with a surface area of 30,000 acres. It is also a reservoir created by a dam on the French Broad River and is known for its picturesque scenery and wildlife.
Douglas Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for bass and catfish, as well as other water activities such as boating, water skiing, and swimming. The lake is surrounded by several parks and campgrounds, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Norris Lake: The Third Largest Body of Water in Tennessee
Norris Lake, located in northeastern Tennessee, is the third-largest lake in the state, with a surface area of 33,840 acres. It is also a reservoir created by a dam on the Clinch River and is known for its clear waters and stunning mountain views.
Norris Lake is a popular destination for fishing, particularly for walleye and bass, as well as other water activities such as boating and kayaking. The lake is surrounded by several state parks and campgrounds and is a hub for outdoor recreation in the region.
Watts Bar Lake: Size and Features
Watts Bar Lake, located in eastern Tennessee, is the fifth-largest lake in the state, with a surface area of 39,000 acres. It is also a reservoir created by a dam on the Tennessee River and is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for crappie and bass.
In addition to fishing, Watts Bar Lake offers other water activities, such as boating and water skiing. The lake is surrounded by several parks and campgrounds, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Nickajack Lake: The Fifth Largest Lake in Tennessee
Nickajack Lake, located in southeastern Tennessee, is the fifth-largest lake in the state, with a surface area of 10,370 acres. It is also a reservoir created by a dam on the Tennessee River and is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for catfish and bass.
In addition to fishing, Nickajack Lake offers other water activities, such as boating and water skiing. The lake is surrounded by several parks and campgrounds, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Old Hickory Lake: Size and Surroundings
Old Hickory Lake, located in central Tennessee, is the seventh-largest lake in the state, with a surface area of 22,500 acres. It is also a reservoir created by a dam on the Cumberland River and is known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities.
Old Hickory Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for bass and catfish, as well as other water activities such as boating and kayaking. The lake is surrounded by several parks and campgrounds, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Center Hill Lake: An Overview
Center Hill Lake, located in central Tennessee, is the eighth-largest lake in the state, with a surface area of 18,200 acres. It is also a reservoir created by a dam on the Caney Fork River and is known for its crystal clear waters and stunning scenery.
Center Hill Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for bass and catfish, as well as other water activities such as boating and kayaking. The lake is surrounded by several parks and campgrounds, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Dale Hollow Lake: Tennessee’s "Small in Size, Big in Beauty" Lake
Dale Hollow Lake, located in northeastern Tennessee, is the tenth-largest lake in the state, with a surface area of 27,700 acres. It is also a reservoir created by a dam on the Obey River and is known for its clear waters and rugged terrain.
Despite being smaller than some of the other lakes on this list, Dale Hollow Lake is known for its beauty and recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, and camping. The lake is surrounded by several state parks and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
