Top 7 Lakes in Knox County
Lakes in Knox County and its surrounding region offer diverse recreational activities and scenic beauty. The area features several notable lakes, including those directly bordering Knox County and others within an hour's drive. These bodies of water are popular destinations for residents and visitors seeking outdoor experiences. The region's geography includes urban waterfronts, calm waters, and deep-water reservoirs, often set against backdrops like the Cumberland Mountains or the Great Smoky Mountains.
Best lakes in Knox County
- The most popular lakes…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
Duck Harbor Ferry
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Lawsons Quarry
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Camden Snowbowl
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View of Hatchet Cove
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View of Davis Cove and Maple Juice Cove from Pleasant Point and Stones Point Road
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View of Davis Cove and Maple Juice Cove from Pleasant Point and Stones Point Road
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Tips from the Community
Isle au Haut Boat Services, a non-profit corporation, operates year-round passenger, mail and freight service between the Town of Stonington and Isle au Haut, as well as seasonal service to Acadia National Park's Duck Harbor Landing. The financial shortfall is covered by support from Isle au Haut Town, the U.S. Department of Transportation, the National Park Service and private donors. In 2024, the company will offer daily trips to Duck Harbor from mid-May to mid-October. http://www.isleauhaut.com/summerschedulerates.html
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Pleasant Point Road and Stones Point Road join together to form a small loop on this tiny peninsula. You get great views of Davis Cove and Maple Juice Cove from the road, and there are a couple cul-de-sacs that you can bike down to get better views of the water.
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This spot off the side of the road offers great views of Hatchet Cove and the islands several hundred yards out into the water. If you keep biking down Flood's Road, you'll come to another great overlook at the end of the peninsula.
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This spot off the side of the road offers great views of Hatchet Cove and the islands several hundred yards out into the water. If you keep biking down Flood's Road, you'll come to another great overlook at the end of the peninsula.
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Pleasant Point Road and Stones Point Road join together to form a small loop on this tiny peninsula. You get great views of Davis Cove and Maple Juice Cove from the road, and there are a couple cul-de-sacs that you can bike down to get better views of the water.
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Lawsons Quarry is a small pond on Vinalhaven Island. The pond, which used to be a full-on rock quarry, is now a popular public swimming hole. The entire area is actually a park with a parking and picnic area.
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Lawsons Quarry is a small pond on Vinalhaven Island. The pond, which used to be a full-on rock quarry, is now a popular public swimming hole. The entire area is actually a park with a parking and picnic area.
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The ferry into Duck Harbor Campground is available from mainland Stonington early June through early October and costs around $44 round trip. The campground is your last place for amenities and water if you are running south! Outside of summer months the ferry runs only to the town on the north side of Isle au Haut and you will have to find their own way into the park. More information on the ferry: isleauhaut.com
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in the Knox County area are best for swimming?
Norris Lake is highly regarded for its exceptional water clarity and 'stunning turquoise' water, making it the top choice for swimming and long summer dips. It even has spring-fed depths suitable for scuba diving.
Are there family-friendly lakes in Knox County?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly activities. Fort Loudoun Lake, with its numerous waterfront parks like Suttree Landing, Volunteer Landing, and Concord Park, is ideal for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying nature. Lawsons Quarry is also a popular public swimming hole within a park that includes parking and picnic areas, making it great for families.
What lakes are best for fishing in the Knox County region?
Douglas Lake is nationally ranked as one of the top lakes for crappie fishing, especially in spring, and is also excellent for bass fishing. Fort Loudoun Lake is another popular spot where locals enjoy catching and eating fish. Cherokee Lake also offers excellent fishing habitats.
Where can I go kayaking or canoeing near Knox County?
Melton Hill Lake is known for its relatively calm waters, making it a popular spot for kayaking. Fort Loudoun Lake also offers opportunities for kayaking. Additionally, you can rent kayaks for use on Hosmer Pond at Camden Snowbowl.
What are the best lakes for water sports like jet skiing or wakeboarding?
Fort Loudoun Lake is a hub for water sports, including jet skiing and pleasure boating. Norris Lake is also a great destination for recreational activities like wakeboarding and jet skiing, offering a vibrant 'houseboat culture'.
Are there lakes with scenic views of the mountains?
Douglas Lake offers dramatic views of the Great Smoky Mountains from the water. Cherokee Lake is set against the scenic backdrop of the towering Clinch Mountain Range, with a lookout point on Clinch Mountain providing breathtaking views of the lake.
Which lakes are good for birdwatching?
Douglas Lake is a birdwatcher's paradise, especially during seasonal migrations. Cherokee Lake also provides excellent birding habitats, making both ideal for observing local and migratory bird species.
What are some unique cultural aspects or events associated with lakes in the area?
Fort Loudoun Lake is famous for its 'V Navy' tailgating parties during football season, where hundreds of boats gather on the river. Norris Lake is known for its distinctive 'houseboat culture,' offering a unique Caribbean-like escape in the Appalachians.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes besides water sports?
Many lakes offer adjacent land-based activities. Melton Hill Lake has recreation areas with bicycling trails and picnic spots. Norris Dam State Park and Big Ridge State Park near Norris Lake offer hiking trails. Douglas Lake is close to Seven Islands State Birding Park. For cycling, you can explore routes like the 'Vinalhaven & Lawsons Quarry loop' or the 'Norton Pond & Megunticook Lake loop' as part of the Cycling in Knox County guide. For running, trails like the 'Clark Island Preserve loop' are available, detailed in the Running Trails in Knox County guide.
Are there any viewpoints to enjoy the lake scenery?
Yes, there are several excellent viewpoints. View of Hatchet Cove offers scenic vistas from the side of the road. You can also find great views of Davis Cove and Maple Juice Cove from Pleasant Point and Stones Point Road, as highlighted by View of Davis Cove and Maple Juice Cove from Pleasant Point and Stones Point Road.
Which lakes are less crowded for a more peaceful experience?
Cherokee Lake is often less crowded than some other lakes in the region, providing a more peaceful and idyllic setting for visitors seeking tranquility.
What is the best time to visit the lakes in Knox County?
The lakes are popular year-round, but spring and summer are ideal for water activities like swimming, fishing, and boating. Spring is particularly good for crappie fishing on Douglas Lake, and summer brings the 'V Navy' tailgating on Fort Loudoun Lake and the 'houseboat culture' on Norris Lake.
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Still not found your perfect lake in Knox County? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
