Douglas Lake
In the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, located conveniently off of interstates 81 and 40, Douglas Lake offers breathtaking scenery, great water recreational activities, and beautiful lakeside lodging.
Douglas Lake was formed when the Tennessee Valley Authority built the Douglas Dam in 1943 to provide hydroelectric power and help with downstream flood control of the Tennessee River Valley.
The resort town of Baneberry, and the Jefferson County seat, Dandridge are both located along the shores of Douglas lake.

5 Interesting Facts about Douglas Lake
1. BASSMASTER Top 100 Lake
Douglas Lake has been named a BASSMASTER Top 100 Lake! Bassmaster Magazine is known as the “Bible of today’s bass fishermen,” so if you love to fish, this is the perfect lake for you to visit. Douglas Lake is ranked in the top 10 in the nation for largemouth bass and is also rated one of the top 5 crappie locations in the nation!
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2. Douglas Dam Was Built in Record Time Douglas Dam was built in record time for a facility of its size. Construction began on February 2, 1942 and lasted until February 19, 1943 at the height of World War II. The dam itself is a hydroelectric facility with 4 generating units that have a combined net dependable capacity of 111 megawatts. Douglas Lake extends 43 miles upriver from Douglas Dam through the foothills of the Smoky Mountains.
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3. Flood Storage Reservoir
Douglas Lake, also known as Douglas Reservoir, is a flood storage reservoir. It helps with the overall water control in the Tennessee Valley. Its flood-storage capacity is 1,082,000 acre-feet. To prepare for the winter, TVA lowers the water level to make room for the runoff from winter storms. When there is a storm, TVA holds the water back by reducing releases from the dam, and when the rain stops, TVA gradually lets the water out to prepare for the next storm. In the summer when there is less risk of floods, TVA keeps lake levels higher to support recreation. In a year with normal rainfall, Douglas Lake’s water level varies about 44 feet from summer to winter.
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4. More Than 1.7 Million Visitors Each Year
Douglas Lake has become a popular recreational site where visitors can enjoy picnicking, camping, fishing and more! The lake attracts more than 1.7 million visitors each year, and it’s not hard to understand why. Besides being a top spot for fishing, it also has exceptional opportunities for boating. Whether you bring your own boat or rent one at the lake, you’ll love taking it out on the water and relaxing! For some fun on the lake, visitors can rent kayaks, paddle boats and more. You’re also allowed to go for a swim anywhere in the lake!
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5. Just A Few Miles From Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg
When you visit Douglas Lake, you’ll be surrounded by mountains and gorgeous nature scenes. But just a few miles away, you’ll find all the excitement of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg! Popular area attractions are a short drive away from the lake, so if you want to explore a museum, visit thrilling attractions or browse unique shops, you won’t have far to go.
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Lakeside Dining
Angelo's at the Point
122 Boat Dock Dr. Dandridge, TN 37725
865.484.0484
This lake-side restaurant in Dandridge is family owned and operated.They're open every day of the week to provide a comfortable and affordable dining experience, offering musical entertainment, happy hour specials, express lunch and early bird specials and Sunday brunch. Their extensive dinner menu consists of many traditional favorites and a variety of steaks and fresh seafood, chicken and pasta dishes. Read More...
Fire Lake Grill (formerly Cowboys)
1435 TN-139, Dandridge, TN 37725
865.397.2529
Located off Hwy 139 and just minutes from Sevierville and Downtown Dandridge. They have a large variety of amazing food choices all while overlooking gorgeous Douglas Lake.
Off The Hook Lakeside Bar & Grill
2513 Black Oak Rd. Jefferson City, TN 37760
865.350.2408
Website
Tennessee's premier lakeside restaurant. Famous for their friendly staff, casual, Key West-like atmosphere, cold drinks, apps, burgers and tacos! Featuring Taco Tuesdays, Tuesday Trivia Night, and Wing Wednesday.
Harbor Grill at Mountain Cove Marina
1590 Dyke Rd. Sevierville, TN 37876
865.770.9677
Some of the best food on Douglas Lake is located at the Harbor Grill at Mountain Cove Marina. Relax and enjoy beautiful lake and mountain views while sampling the menu from the dock.
Millstone Restaurant & Country Store
1531 E Hwy 25-70, Dandridge, TN 37725
865.397.2254
A little piece of heaven on Douglas Lake at Swann's Marina. They offer wholesome, regional food; prepared and served with passion and integrity.
Things To Do Near Douglas Lake
Fishing - Between two gorgeous mountain lakes, Jefferson County is home to some of Appalachia's best fishing.
Lake Access - Between two gorgeous mountain lakes, Jefferson County is home to some of Appalachia's best boating.
Golf - Whether you are a novice or pro, you can enjoy a great round of golf at five beautiful golf courses here in Jefferson County!
Hot Air Balloons - Enjoy the view of our beautiful lakes and the Smoky Mountain views from the air! Sky Dive and Hot Air Balloon East TN.
Bush's Visitor Center - Enjoy a walk back in time as you stroll through the Bush's Story. It's fun for all ages and offers an interactive atmosphere. The museum is FREE to the public.
Equestrian - The River Glen Equestrian has rolling hills, woodlands, and pastures that stretch along the Holston River, and in conveniently located in Jefferson County, TN.
Scenic Trails - There are many scenic driving trails to enjoy by car, motorcycle, or bike, enjoy natural beauty on our off the beaten paths.
Hiking - The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited park in the US. Enjoy one of the 50 hikes the national park has to offer you!
Annual Events - There are many events going on throughout the year in the Lakeside of the Smokies. From Heritage Festivals, to summer music concerts!
Recreation - Come visit one of the many recreation facilities in Jefferson County. From Basketball to Volleyball, we have lots of activities to choose from!
Living On Douglas Lake
These homes and lots for sale on Douglas Lake are available right now! Give us a call if there is something you would like to see!