Norris Dam State Park

Begun in 1933 as the first Tennessee Valley Authority project, the 4,038-acre Norris Dam State Park is home to one of the state’s most picturesque reservoirs and a wealth of recreation activities. It is named for Senator George Norris of Nebraska, author of the legislation that created TVA. Norris Lake boasts 700 miles of shoreline, a fully equipped marina, boat ramp, rental pontoon boats and some of the best fishing in the state. Norris Lake and Clinch River are known for trout fishing, as well as striper bass, small and largemouth bass, walleye and crappie. Fishing guides are available. A long list of fun activities can be enjoyed at ...

Begun in 1933 as the first Tennessee Valley Authority project, the 4,038-acre Norris Dam State Park is home to one of the state’s most picturesque reservoirs and a wealth of recreation activities. It is named for Senator George Norris of Nebraska, author of the legislation that created TVA. Norris Lake boasts 700 miles of shoreline, a fully equipped marina, boat ramp, rental pontoon boats and some of the best fishing in the state. Norris Lake and Clinch River are known for trout fishing, as well as striper bass, small and largemouth bass, walleye and crappie. Fishing guides are available. A long list of fun activities can be enjoyed at Norris Dam – camping, picnic areas, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, tennis, playgrounds, sports fields, recreation center and much more. Miles of hiking trails lead through deeply forested valleys and ridges. Diverse wildlife, flowers and plants are abundant. Park naturalists offer great programs such as wildflower hikes and history talks.

Along with its natural beauty, Norris Dam has a rich history displayed at the excellent Lenoir Museum Cultural Complex. The complex includes the Lenoir Pioneer Museum, 18th century Rice Grist Mill and 1830s Crosby Threshing Barn. Exhibits feature Appalachian artifacts and a pre-dam pictorial account of the area now submerged by the lake. The museum contains the huge collection of Will G. Lenoir, who spent more than 60 years trying to preserve the rapidly changing culture of the people who once lived in the area. For an interesting sight, stop by and see the mighty dam from overlooks on both sides of the lake. The dam was designed by architect Roland Wank to be functional and attractive.

About the Expert

Jackie Sheckler Finch has written several guidebooks, including The Unofficial Guide to Campgrounds in the Great Lakes States, and four times she was named Travel Writer of the Year by Midwest Travel Writers Association.