Tailwater Access Area
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
The Tailwater Access Area, located in the state of Tennessee, offers several compelling reasons to visit.
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Summary
Nestled along the banks of the South Holston River, this area is renowned for its scenic beauty and exceptional fishing opportunities. Verified across multiple independent sources, here is a summary of the Tailwater Access Area:
Reasons to Visit:
1. Superb Fishing: The Tailwater Access Area is known for its exceptional trout fishing, particularly the brown and rainbow trout. Anglers can enjoy fly fishing and catch-and-release fishing in the crystal-clear waters of the South Holston River.
2. Natural Beauty: The area boasts stunning scenery, with the river winding through picturesque forests and rolling hills. Visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil surroundings, making for a peaceful outdoor experience.
3. Hiking and Recreation: In addition to fishing, the Tailwater Access Area offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking. Its trails provide a chance to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
Points of Interest:
1. South Holston Dam: The Tailwater Access Area is situated just below the South Holston Dam. Visitors can witness the impressive engineering feat and enjoy the scenic views of the reservoir.
2. Watauga Dam: Located upstream, the Watauga Dam is another notable attraction in the area. It features a scenic overlook and provides excellent photo opportunities.
Interesting Facts:
1. The South Holston River is considered one of the top trout fishing destinations in the eastern United States, known for its large fish population and year-round fishing opportunities.
2. The Tailwater Access Area is managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), which ensures the sustainability of the river's ecosystem and maintains the area's recreational facilities.
Best Time to Visit:
The Tailwater Access Area can be enjoyed throughout the year, but the best time to visit depends on personal preferences. Spring and fall are popular seasons for fishing, as trout are more active during these times. The area experiences beautiful foliage during the fall when the surrounding forests transform into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow.
In summary, the Tailwater Access Area in Tennessee offers a rewarding experience for anglers and nature enthusiasts alike. With its exceptional fishing, scenic beauty, and recreational activities, this area presents a perfect retreat for those seeking outdoor adventures.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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