11 Best Lakes Near Chattanooga to Go Swimming

1. Chickamauga Lake

Just a short 15-minute drive from Chattanooga, Chickamauga Lake is a 36,240-acre reservoir on the Tennessee River that offers plenty of fun activities for every water lover.

Chickamauga Lake has a roped-off swimming area near the dam, which means you can take a refreshing dip without worrying about boat traffic.

You can go fishing, swimming, kayaking, and even water skiing if you’re feeling adventurous.

But that’s not all – there’s also hiking, biking, and camping for those who prefer to stay on dry land.

2. Watts Bar Lake

Get ready for an exhilarating adventure at Watts Bar Lake – a stunning oasis nestled in the heart of the Tennessee River Valley.

This colossal lake spans 39,000 acres with depths reaching around 70 feet near the dams, ensuring hours of watery fun!

Don’t you just adore a good swim? Perfect! You’ll be thrilled to plunge into the refreshing water of Watts Bar, with swimming opportunities aplenty.

And just between you and us – the sunsets here are absolutely mesmerizing, so make sure to stick around for that golden hour.

Watts Bar Lake stretches an astonishing 72.4 miles between Watts Bar Dam and Ft. Loudon Dam. Go on and explore the lake with a kayak or boat; the possibilities for adventure are truly limitless!

3. Parksville Lake

Oh, Parksville Lake! Just when you thought Chattanooga couldn’t get any better, this beauty comes along.

Situated amidst the breathtaking Cherokee National Forest, Parksville Lake (aka Lake Ocoee) is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Get ready to dive right in, as this lake is totally swimmable. You’ll find yourself happily splashing around at popular spots like Parksville Beach and Mac Point.

And with a variety of fish species like bluegill, bass, trout, and catfish, Parksville Lake is perfect for the angling aficionado.

Just remember, there’s a $3 day-use parking fee, but trust us, it’s worth every penny.

Now here’s a little secret between you and us: the 10-mile drive up Chilhowee Mountain to Chilhowee Recreation Area offers overlooks with breathtaking views of Parksville Lake and the surrounding forest!

4. Tims Ford Lake

Tims Ford Lake is one of the most picturesque lakes in Tennessee. Who needs Cancun when you have this beauty right near Chattanooga?

With its top-notch bass fishing, this slice of heaven is a must-visit on your next aquatic adventure.

Dive right into the crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming with family, friends, or even solo.

The stunning lake provides options for various activities like kayaking and pontoon boat rentals for your enjoyment.

The lake is stocked annually with black bass, striped and hybrid striped bass, which means it’s an angler’s paradise! Your fishing tales will grow legs with each catch in this bass haven.

5. Guntersville Lake

Dive into a world of aquatic adventure at Guntersville Lake, located just a splash away from Chattanooga.

This fishing paradise covers a whopping 69,000 acres and stretches over 900 miles of shoreline, offering endless opportunities to reel in the catch of a lifetime.

Swimmable? You bet! Dip your toes into Guntersville’s welcoming waters and frolic all day long.

With a stunning backdrop and an abundance of fishy friends, it’s no wonder Lake Guntersville is often hailed as one of the South’s greatest lakes.

But did you know it’s also home to an impressive array of wildlife besides fish? Keep your eyes peeled for regal bald eagles and even playful otters – a delightful surprise for any nature lover.

6. Rainbow Lake

Oh, the wonders of Rainbow Lake! Located near Signal Mountain, this charming little oasis is just what the doctor ordered for a delightful summer escape.

Surrounded by picturesque scenery, it’s the perfect place to dip your toes and enjoy some well-deserved relaxation.

This swimmable gem offers more than just a refreshing dip – the Rainbow Lake Trail is a treasure trove of secret spots and hidden waterfalls just waiting to be discovered. You might even stumble upon the elusive Rainbow Falls during your exploration.

So, next time you’re in the Chattanooga area, don’t hesitate to venture off the beaten path and discover the enchanting Rainbow Lake. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure and, of course, your trusty swimsuit!

7. Fall Creek Falls

Fall Creek Falls is a jaw-dropping body of water that is part of the 29,800-acre Fall Creek Falls State Park, nestled atop the breathtaking Cumberland Plateau.

Splish-splash away; Fall Creek Falls is waiting for you to dive right in. And yes, it’s swimmable!

With its crystal-clear waters and mesmerizing cascades, this lake is an absolute must-see destination for nature enthusiasts and water lovers alike.

Why not let your adventurous spirit soar and explore the park’s stunning gorges, lush hardwood forests, and other magnificent waterfalls?

8. Nickajack Lake

You simply must check out Nickajack Lake on your next trip to Chattanooga. This gorgeous reservoir, created by the Tennessee Valley Authority’s Nickajack Dam, stretches for 46 miles and offers spectacular views of the Tennessee River Gorge.

But why just admire the view when you can dive right in? Nickajack Lake is totally swimmable, unleashing your inner water baby as you splash around.

Not to mention, it’s also a hot spot for fishing with bass and catfish awaiting your expert angling skills.

If the breathtaking scenery alone doesn’t make your heart skip a beat, did you know that Hales Bar Marina & Resort in Haletown, Tennessee has floating cabins right on Nickajack Lake?

Yeah, you read that right, floating cabins! Talk about a unique way to experience lakeside living.

9. Normandy Lake

Dive into the world of breathtaking Normandy Lake, a spectacular 3,048-acre impoundment in south-central Tennessee.

If you’re a water baby at heart, you’ll adore this nature’s masterpiece, featuring the pristine Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) reservoir.

What’s the scoop on swimming? Absolutely! Dip your toes or take a full-on plunge into Normandy Lake’s refreshing waters while enjoying the beauty of its lush surroundings.

Normandy Lake isn’t your ordinary lake; this fascinating reservoir has loads of surprises in store, like prime bank fishing opportunities for anglers and charming nooks for picnics.

10. Carters Lake

Let us introduce you to Carters Lake, the incredible body of water that will absolutely dazzle your senses.

Nestled in North Georgia’s charming mountains, this man-made marvel plunges to a jaw-dropping 450 feet, making it super deep and mysterious, just like your favorite detective novel.

Worried about dipping that pretty little toe of yours? Fear not! Carters Lake is absolutely swimmable with 3,200 acres of clear, magical H2O to immerse yourself into.

Not to mention, the 62 miles of breathtaking, undeveloped shoreline is just begging to be explored.

Fun fact: the lake is located on the ancient Coosawattee River which means – wait for it – history! Carters Lake is a modern creation enveloped in a land that whispers untold stories from eons past.

11. Lula Lake

Get ready to be amazed by the beauty of Lula Lake. Nestled on Lookout Mountain, this stunning spot is nothing short of a nature-lovers paradise.

With its crystal-clear waters and jaw-dropping waterfalls, you can’t help but be mesmerized.

Now, while your heart may be racing to dive right in, we’ve got to break it to you gently – no swimming allowed!

Fret not, though, because the surrounding lands offer over six miles of trails for you to explore and bask in all the glory that Lula Lake has on display.

To access this haven, you’ll need to plan ahead. Lula Lake Land Trust is only open on the first and last weekends of the month, so be sure to check their calendar and make a reservation.