Kayak Douglas Lake near Gatlinburg
Adventure Destination

Kayak Douglas Lake near Gatlinburg

Experience kayaking on Douglas Lake near Gatlinburg, TN. This easy route offers stunning views of the Smoky Mountains and is ideal for fishing and wildlife viewing. Best visited in spring and fall to enjoy serene surroundings and unique wildlife sightings.

Kayaking7.5/10Easy
Photo Gallery

Category

Kayaking

Typical Duration

2-4 hours

Difficulty

Easy

About This Adventure Destination

Kayaking on Douglas Lake provides an extraordinary way to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. This expansive lake, only a short drive from Gatlinburg, serves as a superb spot for water enthusiasts with stunning views, diverse wildlife, and ample opportunities for adventure. Kayaking here allows visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture and appreciate the serene landscape.

Editorial Assessment

Douglas Lake near Gatlinburg offers a scenic and serene environment ideal for kayaking and enjoying nature. While it's a beautiful spot for outdoor activities, it doesn't possess the unique geological or ecological features that would rank it among the world’s most exceptional natural destinations.

Kayak Douglas Lake near Gatlinburg

Adventure Guide to Kayak Douglas Lake near Gatlinburg

1

#

  • Highlights:

2

1. Douglas Lake Public Access

  • Overview:

    Located at 1520 Lakeview Dr, Dandridge, TN, this public access point is ideal for launching your kayak. The gentle waters and well-maintained ramp make it accessible for all skill levels. Stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the surrounding forests add to its appeal.

3

2. Indian Creek

  • Overview:

    Accessible from the Indian Creek Campground, this area features calm waters perfect for beginners. Here you might spot herons and eagles soaring above or fish jumping at the water's surface. The campground also offers amenities like picnic areas and restrooms, making it a great spot for a full day of fun.

4

3. Point Lookout

  • Overview:

    For those seeking a bit more excitement, Point Lookout has various coves to explore. The scenic beauty is breathtaking, especially during sunrise or sunset. This area also offers opportunities for fishing, making it a versatile destination for both kayak enthusiasts and anglers.

5

Local Insights

  • Overview:

    Did you know that Douglas Lake was created in the 1940s as part of a hydroelectric project? The lake spans over 30 miles and has numerous inlets and coves to discover, each rich with local history and wildlife.

6

Visitor Tips

  • Details:

    Best Time to Visit: Spring and early fall offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, enhancing your kayaking experience.

  • Details:

    What to Bring: Don't forget paddles, life jackets, sunscreen, hats, and snacks.

  • Details:

    Driving Directions: From Gatlinburg, head east on US-321 for about 30 minutes to reach the lake. Kayaking at Douglas Lake is not just about paddling; it's about connecting with the natural environment and local culture in this unique region.

Reviews

P
P Joa week ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

S
saleh algofili3 months ago

One of the most beautiful lakes in which you can spend a full day or at least half a day. There is a rental of boats for 10 people on gasoline that you can drive yourself. Half a day is approximately $100 and a full day is $170.

K
Kevin Callaghan3 months ago

Beautiful lake

M
Melanie McGrew Peeka month ago

It was a gorgeous day on Douglas Lake. We went out in Michael and Sam's pontoon boat. We explored the lake. It is a huge area of water. Sam has lunch for us. It was great! Veggies and sandwiches. Later we watched the sun go down. A beautiful sunset topped off the day. I'll never forget that day!

D
Douglas Giammarco2 months ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

Nearby Adventures

Nearby Adventure Destinations

View All Destinations →
Douglas Lake: A Scenic Retreat7.55.31 mi
Douglas Lake

Douglas Lake: A Scenic Retreat

Explore Douglas Lake, a scenic spot in Eastern Tennessee, known for fishing, boating, and bird watching. Enjoy picturesque landscapes from spring through fall, with busier summer months. Visitors need a valid TN fishing license for fishing activities.

View Details →
Hiking the Point Lookout Trail at Panther Creek State Park: A Panoramic Adventure7.014.4 miModerate
Knoxville

Hiking the Point Lookout Trail at Panther Creek State Park: A Panoramic Adventure

Hike the 1.9-mile Point Lookout Trail near Morristown, TN, featuring a moderate climb with sweeping views of Cherokee Lake. This trail is popular for hiking and birding, best enjoyed in spring and fall with cooler weather.

View Details →
Cherokee National Forest8.715.1 mi
Cherokee National Forest

Cherokee National Forest

Explore over 650,000 acres of Cherokee National Forest in Elizabethton, TN. Enjoy diverse ecosystems with scenic hiking trails and thrilling white-water rafting on the Ocoee River. Ideal for adventure seekers, especially in spring and fall.

View Details →
Nearby Adventures

Bookable Experiences

A Full-Day Upland Blast Around Jefferson City: Quail, Chukar, Pheasant and Birddogs11.1 mi
Jefferson City, Tennessee

A Full-Day Upland Blast Around Jefferson City: Quail, Chukar, Pheasant and Birddogs

A full-day guided upland hunt in Jefferson City that pairs trained birddogs with a slate of quail, chukar and pheasant and includes a hot, freshly cooked lunch — this guide summarizes what to expect and how the day typically unfolds.

11.1 miView Trips & Details →
Dogs, Flushes, and Upland Birds: A Six‑Hour Guided Hunt in Jefferson City11.1 mi
Jefferson City, Tennessee

Dogs, Flushes, and Upland Birds: A Six‑Hour Guided Hunt in Jefferson City

A compact, guided upland day hunting quail, chukar, and pheasant with trained birddogs—this guide explains what to expect and how the outing is organized.

11.1 miView Trips & Details →
Spacious 73‑Foot Pull‑Thru at Windrock Gap — Site 32 Built for Class A Motorhomes12.3 mi
Knoxville, Tennessee

Spacious 73‑Foot Pull‑Thru at Windrock Gap — Site 32 Built for Class A Motorhomes

A concise guide to RV 50 Amp Site 32 at Windrock Gap Campground: a 73‑foot, 50‑amp pull‑through site with a picnic table, burn ring and grill; nightly rate $45.

12.3 miView Trips & Details →
Bunkhouse A (10 × 12) at Windrock Gap Campground — compact cabin, four beds, $60/night14.2 mi
Knoxville, Tennessee

Bunkhouse A (10 × 12) at Windrock Gap Campground — compact cabin, four beds, $60/night

A concise field guide to staying in a 10×12 bunkhouse in Knoxville covering sleeping layout, on-site amenities, rates, and what to pack.

14.2 miView Trips & Details →
Float, Cast, Repeat: Smallmouth on East Tennessee’s Riverways15.4 mi
Jefferson City, Tennessee

Float, Cast, Repeat: Smallmouth on East Tennessee’s Riverways

A guided smallmouth-fishing float in Jefferson City, Tennessee — trips run 4–9 hours and include provided gear and light refreshments, making this guide useful for planning time, kit, and group size.

15.4 miView Trips & Details →
Hug a Llama on a Family Farm in the Smokies15.6 mi
Cosby, Tennessee

Hug a Llama on a Family Farm in the Smokies

A hands-on, hourlong visit at Smoky Mountain Llama Treks in Cosby where guests meet, pet and learn the names and personalities of a friendly llama herd.

15.6 miView Trips & Details →