Cove Lake State Park
Overview
Cove Lake State Park's 673 acres are situated in a beautiful mountain valley on the eastern edge of the Cumberland Mountains. There are scenic nature trails and bike trails leading through the open grasslands and woodlands. In the winter, several hundred Canada Geese make this lake shore their feeding ground. Nearby is the Devil's Race Track, whose steep pinnacle rock affords a panoramic view. The park has trails, a wildlife observation area, and a campground. The park is connected to nearby peaks through the Cumberland Trail, a portion of which passes near the park's boundary. Visitors can fish on Cove Lake, which is 210 acres in size. Visitors can catch bass, bluegill, and even crappie. The park was developed in the late 1930s by the Tennessee Valley Authority, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), and the National Park Service. The lake is part of Norris Lake, which was created by Caryville Dam. Some of the CCC's original structures still remain, including stone walls, a powder house, and the park office.
Activities
Boating
Rowboats and pedal boats are available for rent on the lake, but no personally owned boats are permitted. No gas powered motors are allowed, but visitors may bring their own electric trolling motor to put on fishing boats. Boat rentals are available year-round.
Bicycling
There is a 3.5-mile paved hiking trail that is also used for biking. There is no mountain biking in the park. Mountain bikers can visit nearby Cross Mountain which is only five miles from Cove Lake.
Auto/Motorcycle
The roads through the park offer great views of the lake for visitors who wish to take in the scenery from the comfort of their own vehicles.
Camping
Cove Lake has 100 campsites. All sites are equipped with water and electrical hookups and most have grills and tables. A dump station is available, as are two modern bathhouses containing hot showers and restrooms. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors are not allowed to stay for more than two weeks. Tents are allowed on all the campsites.
Fishing
Year-round fishing is permitted on 210-acre Cove Lake. A valid temporary or annual Tennessee fishing license is necessary for people over 15 years of age. Bass and bluegill are the best sporting fish in the lake, but good catches of crappie always tempt the angler. Fishing is allowed from any site on the banks of the lake.
Hiking
There is a 3.5-mile paved hiking trail that is also used for biking. It loops around the various arms of the lakes.
Picnicking
There are 112 picnic tables and grills to serve Cove Lake visitors. Most sites are located adjacent to the lake. Six large picnic pavilions are provided for family reunions and other large group use. Playgrounds, playfields, restrooms, and water are conveniently located to serve picnickers. Picnic areas are not covered, but they are situated in shady locations. Three of the pavilions can seat up to 50 people and three can seat 60-65 people. Pavilions may be reserved up to one year in advance. Unreserved pavilions are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
RVing
RVs are welcome in the campground.
Tennis
Cove Lake visitors enjoy tennis, as well as badminton, shuffleboard, horseshoes, field games, volleyball, playgrounds, and ping-pong.
Water Sports
Cove Lake State Park has an outdoor swimming complex with an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a kiddy pool, and restrooms. Visitors who are camping at the park get a discount on the pool fee.
Seasonality/Weather
The park is open year-round, as are many of its facilities. Fishing and boat rentals are available all year.
Directions
Driving
Cove Lake is located in East Tennessee's Campbell County, 30 miles northwest of Knoxville, on U.S. 25W and I-75 between LaFollette and Lake City. From I-75, take Exit #134, travel 1/2 miles on Veterans Memorial Highway and take the first left turn. The park lies within the city limits of Caryville, Tennessee.
Phone Numbers
Primary
(423) 566-9701Links
Official URL
http://state.tn.us/environment/parks/CoveLake- Login or register to post comments
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