Watauga Lake

Watauga Lake, reputed to be the third cleanest lake in the USA, is located in northeastern Tennessee, between Johnson City, TN and Boone, NC. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) dammed the Watauga and Elk Rivers during the 1940's completely flooding the original town of Butler, and creating a reservoir. Watauga is just over 16 miles in length and boasts almost 105 miles of amazingly beautiful shoreline surrounded by the Cherokee National forest. The Appalachian trail crosses the lake at its southwestern tip. Fishing, swimming, boating, camping and hiking are just a few of the multitude of recreational opportunities available for enjoyment. Boat launches,swimming beaches, hiking trails and picnic sites are located within the Cherokee National Forest and are available for public use. Hike the Appalachian Trail or one of the other hiking trails available and discover waterfalls and gorgeous views. Private marinas provide boat rental, boat mooring and boat launching facilities. Watauga Lake is perfect for almost any type of boating - from houseboats to sailboats to ski and wakeboard boats to canoes and kayaks - they are all at home on the lake. Watauga Lake offers lakefront living at its finest whether for a visit or a lifetime! Watauga Lake real estate development has been limited because the majority of the shoreline is part of the Cherokee National Forest. Because of this, people who own Watauga lake properties enjoy one of the most pristine lake environments in the U.S. - and it remains relatively uncrowded compared to other popular tourist destinations.

Click on the following links to discover area marinas and attractions: