Harrison Bay State Park wilderness guide
State Park · TN

Harrison Bay State Park

Harrison Bay State Park offers a stunning waterfront retreat along the shores of Chickamauga Lake, ideal for outdoor recreation enthusiasts seeking fishing, boating, and camping opportunities.

State Park1,2002+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

1,200

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Harrison Bay State Park

Harrison Bay State Park offers a stunning waterfront retreat along the shores of Chickamauga Lake, ideal for outdoor recreation enthusiasts seeking fishing, boating, and camping opportunities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Harrison Bay State Park spans over 1,200 acres along the western shoreline of Chickamauga Lake in Tennessee. Established in 1937 as the first Tennessee State Park, it is rich in both history and natural beauty. The park is named after the adjacent large bay of the Tennessee River. With over 40 miles of Chickamauga Lake's shoreline, the park provides numerous opportunities for aquatic activities such as boating, swimming, and fishing. Anglers can look forward to catching bass, bluegill, and catfish. The park’s diverse habitats include hardwood forests and riparian zones, supporting a vibrant ecosystem. The park is home to several trails that cater to hikers of various skill levels and mountain bikers, offering views of the lake and surrounding forests. Featuring a large family campground, picnic areas, and a marina, the park is well-equipped for visitors of all ages. Heritage enthusiasts will appreciate the park's role in the development of the Tennessee Valley Authority and its connection to early 20th-century conservation efforts.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Harrison Bay State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The vibrant marina offering boat rentals for lake exploration✦ Opportunities to spot a variety of bird species, including osprey and bald eagles✦ The scenic Bay Point Loop trail with lake views✦ Comprehensive camping facilities accommodating tents and RVs
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Harrison Bay State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Harrison Bay State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entry fee; marina services and camping have associated fees.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Harrison Bay State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Harrison Bay Campground

Located near the shore, offering electric and water hookups; known for its cleanliness and convenience.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Harrison Bay State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Harrison, Tennessee
⌖ 5.52 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Harrison, Tennessee

Harrison, Tennessee offers peaceful riverfront outdoor activities like paddling, fishing, and hiking with gentle trails and scenic views. Ideal for travelers seeking relaxed nature time away from busy tourist spots.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Soddy-Daisy, Tennessee
⌖ 6.91 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Soddy-Daisy, Tennessee

Soddy-Daisy offers a serene escape with hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking opportunities in picturesque areas. Explore the Cumberland Trail or enjoy fishing and camping by the lake for a rustic adventure.

Fall and Spring
Explore Town
Ooltewah, Tennessee
⌖ 7.83 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ooltewah, Tennessee

Ooltewah offers easy access to hiking, mountain biking, and paddling around scenic lakes and river landscapes. Harrison Bay State Park is a local favorite for outdoor activities and camping, perfect for travelers seeking quiet natural experiences near Chattanooga.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
McDonald, Tennessee
⌖ 8.06 miles
Gateway Basecamp

McDonald, Tennessee

McDonald, Tennessee offers peaceful hiking, fishing, and kayaking amid lush forests and calm rivers. It’s an ideal spot for outdoor lovers seeking a quiet rural escape rich with natural scenery and local charm.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Red Bank, Tennessee
⌖ 11.93 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Red Bank, Tennessee

Red Bank, Tennessee offers a calm outdoor escape with hiking, kayaking, and biking access near the Tennessee River. Ideal for families and nature lovers, it’s a convenient gateway to scenic river trails and peaceful parks.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Cleveland, Tennessee
⌖ 12.50 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Cleveland, Tennessee

Cleveland, TN is a launchpad for thrill-seekers with hiking, river rapids, and biking trails nearby. Escape to the Cherokee National Forest or ride the Ocoee River rapids.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Harrison Bay State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Afternoon on Chickamauga: A 25' Tri‑Toon for Four Energized Hours
ADVEXPEDITION
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Boat RentalADV Bookable

Afternoon on Chickamauga: A 25' Tri‑Toon for Four Energized Hours

A focused guide to Erwin Boat Rentals' PM Half Day Harris 25' Tri‑Toon on Chickamauga Lake — what the boat offers, where you launch, and the practical details to plan a smooth afternoon on the water.

Boat RentalPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
A Full Day Aboard a Harris 23' Tri‑Toon on Chickamauga Lake
ADVEXPEDITION
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Boat RentalADV Bookable

A Full Day Aboard a Harris 23' Tri‑Toon on Chickamauga Lake

Rent a Harris 23' Tri‑toon from Erwin Boat Rentals for an eight‑hour, full‑day outing (10:00 AM–6:00 PM) from Chickamauga Marina; this guide distills the facts you need to plan the trip.

Boat RentalPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip