Watts Bar Lake

One of the South’s Largest Lakes

Spanning 39,000 acres and with a shoreline of 700 miles, Watts Bar Lake is one of the largest lakes in the south. This lake occupies portions of Loudon, Roane, Rhea, and Meigs Counties in Tennessee. A short drive of an hour and a half away are the cities of Chattanooga and Knoxville, Tennessee. 

On the Lake

Anglers will be delighted by the abundant variety of fish found in Watts Bar Lake. Several types of bass, catfish, and crappies, along with walleyes, bluegills, saugers, and more, call Watts Bar Lake home. Fishing is allowed onshore as well. This lake has also hosted several fishing tournaments.

Boating is also a popular pastime at Watts Bar Lake. With several concrete and dirt launch ramps, all types of watercraft can get on the lake. Be mindful of the handful of no-wake zones, however. There are also several inlets and places along the shoreline that are popular swimming spots for those looking to get in the water.

Around Town

Outside of lake activities, Watts Bar lake has several options for fun. Some popular areas include the Betty Brown Memorial Walking Trail, David Webb Waterfront Park, and Paint Rock Refuge. Popular restaurants include Blue Springs Crow's Nest Restaurant, Carmella Bistro, and Terrace View Restaurant.

Chattanooga is a vibrant city with offerings such as the Tennessee Aquarium, Racoon Mountain Caverns, and Tennessee River Park. Locals frequent restaurants like Easy Bistro & Bar, Pickle Barrel, and Community Pie.

Knoxville also has numerous sites to visit, like the Knoxville Zoo, the American Museum of Science and Energy, and A Taste of Knoxville Brew Hop for those of age. Popular food options are Stock and Barrel, Chesapeake's, and Sweet P's BBQ and Soul.

Emergencies

An hour and a half drive will get you to UT Medical Center in Knoxville and CHI Memorial Hospital in Chattanooga. 

For airports, Monroe County Airport is 40 minutes away. McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville and Chattanooga Airport are an hour and 30 minutes away.

A Lake for Everyone

Anglers and lake enthusiasts alike can both find a home with endless possibilities at Watts Bar Lake.