Cherokee Lake & Douglas Lake
Nestled in the heart of East Tennessee, Jefferson County is a premier destination for lake lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Home to two stunning lakes: Cherokee Lake in the north and Douglas Lake in the south, this scenic region offers endless opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and adventure.
Cherokee Lake is known for its peaceful, clear waters and is a favorite spot for boating, fishing, kayaking, and lakeside picnics. Its quiet coves and rolling shoreline make it ideal for a tranquil escape into nature. Just a short drive away, Douglas Lake offers a different experience with wide open waters, breathtaking Smoky Mountain views, and exciting options for jet skiing, paddleboarding, and lakefront vacation rentals.
Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or a day trip, we invite you to explore both of Jefferson County’s lakes. Each one offers its own charm and unforgettable experiences, all within minutes of each other.
Plan your perfect East Tennessee lake vacation today and discover why Jefferson County is a hidden gem for outdoor fun and natural beauty.
Douglas Lake in Dandridge & White Pine, TN
Douglas Lake is a scenic reservoir nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. Popular for boating, fishing, and vacation rentals, it offers over 500 miles of shoreline and breathtaking mountain views. Just minutes from Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Dollywood, Douglas Lake is a top destination for family getaways, outdoor adventures, and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re planning a lakefront cabin stay or a day on the water, Douglas Lake delivers unforgettable experiences year-round.
Cherokee Lake in Jefferson City, TN
Cherokee Lake is a serene reservoir known for its clear waters, scenic beauty, and top-rated bass fishing. Located near Jefferson City and Morristown, it features over 400 miles of shoreline perfect for boating, camping, and waterfront cabins. Surrounded by rolling hills and mountain views, Cherokee Lake offers peaceful escapes and outdoor fun for families, anglers, and nature lovers. Plan your visit today and discover why Cherokee Lake is a hidden gem in East Tennessee.
Douglas Lake in Dandridge & White Pine, TN
Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Douglas Lake offers its visitors great conditions for watersports and crappie and bass fishing. And with 550 miles of shoreline, you have plenty of space to partake in whatever lake activities you enjoy.
Spring Fishing Report with Skylar Hamilton
April is a special month for both Douglas and Cherokee lakes. Some anglers will claim that it is the best time to fish on the neighboring bodies of water here in Jefferson County. You won’t hear me disagree, although the weather can throw a few curve balls in East Tennessee this time of year. Here are the current conditions of both fisheries and what to expect in the coming weeks.
Lake Information
Here are a few quick, helpful links for information regarding lake levels and boater’s safety and regulations.
Marinas on Cherokee & Douglas Lakes
Whether you need somewhere to fuel up for the day or a low-key place to grab a bite to eat, our marinas have it all.
A few of our marinas also offer boat rentals, as well as paddleboards and other watersport rentals.
Lake Public Access Points
Playing on our lakes is one of both the locals’ and our visitors’ favorite past times. Fortunately, we have many conveniently located free public boat ramps on both Cherokee and Douglas Lakes.
Did Someone Say Lake Day?
Cherokee Lake Sailing Club
Do you dream of sailing on the open water, but the cost and time of traveling to the coast is holding you back? The exciting truth is you don't need to travel far for an incredible sailing experience. You might be surprised to learn that some of the most exhilarating...
Memorial Day Weekend in the Lakeside of the Smokies
Is it summer yet? Although summer doesn’t officially start until June, Memorial Day serves as the unofficial/official start to the summer here in Lakeside of the Smokies. While planning your three-day weekend, we have some great ideas on where to stay and what to do....
Fishing for Beginners
With Spring and Summer on the say in East Tennessee, it’s time to get out and enjoy all the outdoor activities in Jefferson County. Nicknamed Lakeside of the Smokies, we have excellent fishing on our local waterways including Douglas Lake and Cherokee Lake. Fishing,...