
Tucked into the foothills of the Cumberland Mountains, Norris Lake is one of Tennessee’s most scenic and beloved freshwater escapes, known for its crystal-clear water, tree-lined coves, and nearly 800 miles of pristine shoreline.
Formed by the first dam built by the Tennessee Valley Authority, Norris Lake is surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and quiet inlets perfect for exploring by boat or kayak. The surrounding area is home to deer, bald eagles, herons, and otters, making it a peaceful haven for nature lovers and photographers alike. Nearby, the Norris Dam State Park and Big Ridge State Park offer scenic hiking trails, picnic spots, and lake overlooks — perfect for a day off the water.
Life on Norris Lake revolves around the water. With more than 20 marinas, visitors can enjoy boating, tubing, wakeboarding, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing for bass, walleye, and crappie. The lake’s calm coves and deep channels make it ideal for both adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re docking at a floating restaurant for lunch or casting a line at sunrise, the rhythm of the lake sets the pace for your day.
Norris Lake isn’t just a destination. It’s a community. The marinas and local eateries around the shoreline create a friendly, small-town atmosphere. You’ll find dockside dining, live music in summer months, and family-friendly festivals throughout the season. Nearby towns like LaFollette, Jacksboro, and Andersonville offer convenient grocery stops, southern-style restaurants, and local shops with everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Despite its natural seclusion, Norris Lake is an easy drive from Knoxville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Chattanooga, and less than 3.5 hours from Nashville, Lexington, Louisville, and Cincinnati. It's a favorite destination for both weekend getaways and extended summer stays. The peaceful setting, coupled with endless water views and a welcoming community, makes Norris Lake the perfect place to slow down, reconnect, and recharge.
Norris Lake is a haven for families seeking a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Spend your days enjoying the crystal-clear waters with boating, swimming, and fishing, or explore the scenic hiking and biking trails that surround the area. For a fun family outing, visit nearby parks, marinas, and charming local attractions. Whether it's roasting marshmallows by the fire pit, playing games on the spacious deck or gazebo, or enjoying quality time with stunning lake views, our The Bend at Big Creek is the perfect base for creating cherished family moments in this beautiful destination.
The Bend at Big Creek is located less than 15 minutes to both Cove Lake State Park and Cumberland Trail State Park, an 11 county trail, that when completed, the trail corridor will encompass the largest acreage within a Tennessee State Park unit, and extend 300 miles from Cumberland Gap on the Tennessee, Virginia, and Kentucky border to the Tennessee River Gorge, near Chattanooga.
The Cumberland Trail includes a growing 210-mile network of access trails and side trails, connecting hikers with scenic and historic features along the main trail route. Day hiking and overnight camping are most popular at Laurel-Snow State Natural Area, North Chickamauga Creek Gorge State Natural Area, the "Three Gorges" segment, and Black Mountain.
Cumberland Mountain Segment — 11.0 Miles — Natural Surface — Difficult
New River Segment — 40.0 Miles — Natural Surface — Moderate
Frozen Head Segment — 20.0 Miles — Natural Surface — Moderate
Obed Wild and Scenic River Segment — 15.0 Miles — Natural Surface — Difficult
Grassy Cove Segment — 12.0 Miles — Natural Surface — Moderate
Stinging Fork Segment — 3.0 Miles — Natural Surface — Moderate
Piney River Segment — 8.5 Miles — Natural Surface — Moderate
Laurel-Snow Segment — 9.0 Miles — Natural Surface — Moderate
Rock Creek Section — 9.6 Miles — Natural Surface — Moderate
Possum Creek Section — 9.5 Miles — Natural Surface — Moderate
North Chickamauga Segment — 7.2 Miles — Natural Surface — Moderate
Tennessee River Gorge Segment — 32.0 Miles — Natural Surface — Moderate
Cumberland Trail State Park offers climbing at Black Mountain, Deep Creek and Laurel Snow.
Nestled in the scenic beauty of Norris Lake, off-highway vehicle (OHV) and all-terrain vehicle (ATV) enthusiasts find a paradise of adventure. Surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and miles of trails, the area offers diverse terrain for riders of all skill levels, from beginners seeking a leisurely ride to thrill-seekers looking for a challenge. With designated trail systems, stunning lake views, and a vibrant outdoor community, Norris Lake is the perfect destination to combine the exhilaration of off-road riding with the tranquility of nature. Whether you’re exploring rugged trails or enjoying a pit stop by the water, Norris Lake promises an unforgettable OHV/ATV experience.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) manages the North Cumberland Wildlife Management Area with 600+ miles of OHV/ATV trails. TWRA is committed to balancing recreational enjoyment with environmental sustainability. Maintaining and repairing the trail system is crucial for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for riders, while the emphasis on environmental soundness indicates a responsible approach to conservation.
TWRA works to foster a positive relationship between outdoor recreation and conservation. This includes ongoing trail maintenance, implementing sustainable practices, and promoting responsible use of the area to minimize the impact on the environment. Royal Blue, New River, and Tackett Creek require GPS mapping systems as they are not found on any paper map and are NOT marked on the property. Trails are open 24 hours a day.
Check out State of Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency for additional information on North Cumberland OHV Riding Area.
Indian River Marina, nestled along the scenic shores of Norris Lake, is a vibrant destination for outdoor enthusiasts and boating aficionados. Surrounded by the serene beauty of lush greenery and crystal-clear waters, this marina offers a perfect blend of relaxation and recreation. Known for its friendly atmosphere and full-service amenities, Indian River Marina is a hub for boating, fishing, and lakeside leisure. Whether you're seeking a quiet retreat or an adventurous day on the water, this marina provides a welcoming escape with opportunities to explore the natural splendor of Norris Lake.