1. Cherokee Lake Beach
With 463 miles of shoreline and 30,300 acres, Cherokee Lake is one of the largest in Tennessee. Head for the beach that is located near the campground at Cherokee Dam. Bring your blanket, sun umbrella, and swimming attire for a few hours or a day lakeside. The entire swimming area is enclosed within a restricted area that has no motorized watercraft.
Above the beach, expect a shady retreat beneath towering, leafy trees where you can relax in sheltered comfort from the hot sun. This lakeside meadow features picnic tables, benches, a play area, and the Cherokee Dam Visitor Center. Take a stroll on nature paths that share the same expansive view of the lake. When you are ready for even more exercise, walk the entire length of the mammoth Cherokee Dam.
Cherokee Lake Beach is situated beside a large boat ramp and 48-site modern campground. The lake is located in the foothills of the Clinch Mountains, 30 miles northeast of Knoxville.
Address: Cherokee Marina, 9499 Hwy 11 W., Mooresburg, Tennessee
2. Rock Island State Park Beach
Visitors to Rock Island State Park will be delighted to find a natural sandy beach not far from the main campground and deluxe rental cabins. The beach is located on the headwaters of Center Hill Lake in one of the most beautiful of Tennessee’s state parks.
There is ample parking and a bathhouse. Set up your umbrella on a warm sunny day and hang out on the sand. Read a book or admire the passing of a great blue heron descending from the limestone cliffs of the Caney Fork Gorge across the water.
More active types come here to play a game of beach volleyball on the court within spiking distance of the lakeshore. Your kids will delight in the small children’s playground. Launch your boat from the ramp beside the beach. The Badger Flat Picnic Area is located nearby when you are ready to set up an outdoor cookout. As the day comes to a close, enjoy the sunset while sitting on a beachside bench around a cozy campfire.
Rock Island State Park is one of the most popular in the state system due to its 870 acres of rugged beauty, waterfalls, and other natural features. It’s located 15 miles southwest of McMinnville and 70 miles beyond that to Nashville.
Address: 82 Beach Road, Rock Island, Tennessee
