5 Things to Do at Norris Lake Tennessee

There's adventure for everyone! Here's a list of 5 things to do while on your vacation at Norris Lake, Tennessee! As always check the weather for Norris Lake, TN and be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen! Even if it's cloudy!

1. Boating and Watercraft Sports

Try something new and exciting with Bros Boards offering paddleboard rentals and sales on Norris Lake!

For those that enjoy outdoor adventure that includes boating and water-sports you've come to the right place! One of the main reasons so many vacationers come to Norris Lake, Tennessee is the beauty of the water! Norris Lake is one of the cleanest lakes in East Tennessee! There are about 21 marinas on Norris Lake offering boat rentals that include pontoons, wakeboard boats, jet skis and fishing boats! Some marinas even offer party pontoon boat rentals with double decks and water-slides! You can expect to pay about $225-$250+ plus fuel for a full day boat rental on the lake! For a complete list of boat rentals and prices, see boat rentals on Norris Lake! There are also boat rentals by delivery to your vacation house rental or area marina from Oasis Watersports!

Besides boating there are also other water-sport activities that include paddleboarding, canoeing and kayaking. Paddleboarding or sometimes referred as SUP for Stand Up Paddleboard is the newest trend in water sports on Norris Lake. Bros Boards on Norris Lake is pleased to bring this new water sport to Norris Lake because it is not only exciting and fun but also provides plenty of exercise. Rentals can range anywhere from $25 dollars and up.

2. Visit Norris Dam State Park

Aerial view of Norris Dam reservoir and Norris Dam Marina on the left! Visitors can drive up to the overlook or cross the dam and walk around at the visitors center. The bottom of the dam is a popular place to fish!

Spend the day at Norris Dam State Park with family and friends and enjoy the outdoors and sightseeing! Norris Dam reservoir is a must see! The park also provides area camping and hiking trails like Hootin Hollow Trailhead and Lakeside Trail. Make a stop at the visitors center and have lunch. There are picnic tables spread out over the lawn, giving you views of the dam. For those that love history, stop by the Grist Mill and Threshing Barn. Also learn about Appalachian life at the Lenoir Museum Cultural Complex.

3. Do a Day Hike at Big Ridge State Park

Big Ridge State Park offers plenty of small hiking trails with gorgeous views of Norris Lake!

Big Ridge State Park lies on 3,687 acres and is an example of the public recreation development along TVA lakeshores. The park offers something for everyone including hiking trails, fishing, swimming, picnic areas, pavilion, children's playground, tennis courts, basketball courts, camping and more! There are 4 hiking trails in this area: Lake Trail, Meditation Trail, Loyston Overlook Trailhead and Dark Hollow Trailhead. Hiking trails range from 310 yards to 1.5 miles. For additional information and map of the area visit the onsite visitors center!

4. Camping

RV campsites with mountain and lake views on Norris Lake!

Camping on Norris Lake is a popular outdoor activity! Visitors can choose any of the 12 marinas on Norris Lake that offer camping options or camp at a area park. Camping prices from the marinas start at $15/night for tent sites, $25-50/night for RV camp sites, and $100+/month - $1848/year for long term camping sites. Anderson County Park, Big Ridge State Park, Cove Lake State Park, Loyston Point Campground and Norris Dam State Park all offer camping sites. Prices range from $15/night for tent sites, $20/night for RV camp sites and $285/month for long term camping sites. Generally a 2 night minimum is required. Camping reservations are highly recommended. For a full list, see camping sites on Norris Lake!

5. Visit Grist Mill and the Lenoir Cultural Complex Museum

A view into early farm life in Tennessee at the Lenoir Museum Cultural Complex at Norris Dam State Park!

If you're a history buff, make your way inside Norris Dam State Park and stop by the Lenoir Museum Cultural Complex. The museum is free to visitors and displays thousands of early American artifacts used for everyday life in Tennessee. Be sure to also stop just around the corner within walking distance and see the 18th century Rice Grist Mill and Crosby Threshing Barn. Admission is free.

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