Recreation

Millions of people enjoy recreational activities on TVA reservoirs each year. The reservoirs and the 290,000 acres of land surrounding them offer nearly limitless opportunities for fun-filled activities, including water skiing, canoeing, sailing, windsurfing, fishing, swimming, hiking, nature photography, picnicking, birdwatching, and camping.

For more information on recreation on TVA lands and waters, check the following sites.

TVA Reservoir Map

Our interactive map of TVA facilities gives the location of all TVA reservoirs and links to general information on each, including descriptions of recreation opportunities and conditions.

Recreation Release Schedules

Go fishing or experience the excitement of canoeing, kayaking, or rafting on the many stretches of river below TVA dams.

Campgrounds

TVA operates some 100 public recreation areas throughout the Tennessee Valley, including campgrounds, day-use areas, and boat launching ramps. The opening and closing dates for the campgrounds are listed here.

Reservoir Information

A handy resource for fishermen and boaters, these pages track water levels on an hourly basis in TVA reservoirs across the Tennessee Valley, give water release schedules at the dams, and more.

Sport Fishing Ratings

To help anglers decide where they have the best chance of catching their favorite types of fish, TVA and state fisheries agencies rate fishing quality for different species in the TVA reservoirs.

The Ocoees

Load up your kayak and head to the Ocoee. The 2004 schedule for the Ocoee Olympic whitewater course includes water releases every weekend from April 24 through October 24. The Ocoee is also home to a four-and-a-half-mile rafting area. Get full information here, including a schedule of water releases for both areas.

Spring Sportfish Survey

With the help of local anglers, TVA conducts an annual survey to determine the number, age, and general health of black bass in reservoirs throughout the Tennessee Valley. Learn about the survey results, and how you can participate.

Clean Marinas and Clean Boating

Boating is one of the most popular recreational uses of TVA reservoirs. TVA's Clean Marina Initiative certifies marinas that are in compliance with pollution-control standards. And the national Clean Boating Campaign helps educate boating enthusiasts and marina operators in practices that reduce pollution and erosion on the waterways. Find out more here.

Safe Boating

What are the most important rules for staying safe while boating? Find out at the National Safe Boating Council site.

Hazardous Waters

Strong currents around dams, locks, and powerhouses can pose a great danger to fishermen and boaters. Learn about the potential dangers surrounding these TVA facilities, and read about important safety precautions you can take.

Metal Detecting

Metal detecting as a recreational activity is allowed on certain TVA fee-owned lands. All metal detecting activities require a TVA issued permit. Get the complete guidelines and download a permit application here.