Island & shoreline camping: Norris & Cherokee lakes

The idea

TVA island & shoreline camping

TVA allows tents and hammocks on undeveloped public land — including wild reservoir islands — for up to 14 consecutive days in any 30-day period; after that, move more than 10 miles before setting up again. ⓘ ⓘ ⓘ

Check first: TVA rules: pack out all trash, don’t hang lanterns on trees, no recreational ATVs or ORVs, and don’t leave an RV or gear unattended overnight. Fire restrictions can apply.

Norris Lake

Norris Lake by boat

Use TVA’s undeveloped-recreation map to find TVA land and islands on Norris; TVA says the map is a guide only and some lands can be closed for safety or wildlife. ⓘ

Norris Lake · easier

Big Ridge State Park

Tent and RV sites on or near Norris Lake with water and electric, plus three hike-in backcountry campsites. ⓘ ⓘ

Check first: TNSP: all Big Ridge cabins are closed for construction and expected to reopen April 1, 2027.

Norris Lake · when it reopens

Norris Dam State Park

East and West tent-and-RV campgrounds, 10 primitive tent-only sites at the east campground and two hike-in backcountry sites. ⓘ ⓘ

Check first: TNSP: the East and West campgrounds are closed for renovation, with an intended reopening in 2026.

Cherokee Lake

Panther Creek State Park

On Cherokee Reservoir near Morristown: 50 campsites with water and electric (eight with sewer), plus a group camp field with no restrooms, electricity or water. ⓘ ⓘ

Check first: TNSP: day-use construction closes the pool parking lot, playground, restrooms and courts until about mid-2027.

Cherokee Lake · TVA

Cherokee Dam Campground

On the upstream side of Cherokee Dam near Jefferson City: 44 sites, all but five primitive sites with water and electric, and the operator says nearly every site has a lake view; a public boat ramp and swim area are next door. ⓘ ⓘ

Check first: TVA season: March 15 – November 15, so it closes for the winter in mid-November. The operator lists a 2-night minimum stay.