Driving north of SR-70 (Asheville Highway), I crossed the bridge and my eye was drawn to the dam to…read morethe east. Thankfully, there is a turnoff and I was able to get a proper look at the dam. A little further, a road turns to the right and it curves back under the dam and leads down to the riverside. A few pickup trucks were parked as people are using the dam for some intense fishing. The dam was built by the Tennessee Eastern Electric Company in 1912-1913 and generates hydroelectricity. It was later purchased by the Tennessee Valley Authority who improved it to the point where it was able to generate 10,640 kilowatts of electricity. Unfortunately, the area became too blocked with sediment and the generators were taken offline in 1972. The dam and reservoir are now used for flood control and recreation. It is a smaller dam compared to most but it is pretty to look at and the fishing looks good. Enjoy this dam review! [Review 20137 overall - 463 in Tennessee - 1113 of 2023.]

We decided to head back home half a day early to get some miles in for the trip to VA from…read moreNashville. We decided to stop in Dandrige overnight and catch some zzzs before making the final leg the following day. It was the 4th of July and we came across the Dandridge dock while searching for some dinner. We got out to take a look and wow, the view of Douglas Lake was so beautiful that evening. It has a long walkway and at the end of it, there are Adirondack chairs for people to sit on. There were several people taking their boats out or coming in, families fishing, and other people like ourselves taking in the view. Definitely worth taking a few minutes to take a peek when staying in or around Dandridge or simply passing through. Stay safe, Friends!

Beautiful but, the water is still way, way down. Will be going back once the water level is back up.read more

I have been going to this place since the mid 1980's as a young boy and we've brought the kids here…read moreseveral times over the past few years. They have both a Gem mine and the trout fishing and in the old days had a mini golf course but that is long gone now. The main guy who operates it, Heath, is super nice and helpful. He got us setup and helped my kids learn to cast the poles and get the hook out once the fish were caught. They charge by the pound and the trout are pretty big so plan a big meal ahead. There's a little extra for cleaning the fish but that's worth it. If you are looking for a fun kid activity this is also a kid friendly place as long as they can hold the pole and reel with your help. The poles, bait, and buckets are supplied so you don't have to bring anything with you. They'll pack it in ice for you also when you leave so you'll be able to keep your fresh catch cold. ----TL;DR----- PROS: plenty of parking, friendly folks, usually it's pretty easy to catch a fish, family run, family oriented and kids will likely enjoy it CONS: none, it's lots of fun BOTTOM LINE: if you like fishing and want to spend a fun few hours, check them out. We've been many times and still love to go back!

They supply everything. Three ponds. The man who works there was very friendly and informative…read more Very nice guy. You don't pay if you don't catch. They even have collapsible chairs. Clean spot. Great time!

This is my favorite Buncombe County River Park. Even though there are no restroom facilities here,…read morethe beauty and serenity of the location more than make up for it. In addition to the various natural dams and rocks in the River, someone has created a little kiddie pool to keep the little ones from floating downstream to Marshall. The river splits with part of it going down a channel to the right, forming walnut island. That little section of the river is just absolutely gorgeous, and the county maintains an easily traversed path the Full length of the island. It could be the perfect location for a small informal wedding, with the bride coming down the path from around the bend, a natural canopy complete with beautiful gurgling sounds of the river flowing over the rocks. The park is equipped with barbecue grills and picnic tables, although the tables look pretty uncomfortable. I suggest bringing your own canvas or folding chairs & blanket if you're going to be here for a while. There is plenty of gorgeous grass, and the park seems to be pretty well maintained. This morning, I saw two people fly fishing, in their waders, as well as a couple more people fishing from a small boat on the river. Really, an idyllic scene. No one else was in the park for the entire 30 minutes we were there, so if you want a little privacy and a gorgeous spot, Walnut Island River Park is the place to go. At least until it gets discovered by the masses.

Very Beautiful! The lake looks so inviting, maybe next time. Clean relaxing and serene. We rode…read morethrough on the Motorcycle a this Gorgeous Day

Pros: Hidden gem with breathtaking views and tranquil surroundings. Nearby Osceola Island Loop is a…read more1.50 mile gravel trail recommended for a leisurely nature walk. Cons: Unclear signage.

On our way to the top for leaf peeping, we stopped here for a bit and enjoyed the scenery. Located…read moreat milepost 297 of the Blue Ridge Parkway, the part encompasses over 4200 acres of rolling mountainous terrain that include campgrounds, hiking trails, picnic sites and Price Lake. The highlight is the Tanawha Trail that runs 13.5 miles and includes Grandfather Mountain. There are canoes available for rental and the lake is stocked with fish. This time of year with the leaves turning, it was a beautiful spot and we enjoyed our time here. Five stars. [Review 15917 overall - 3132 in North Carolina - 1422 of 2021.]

The trail around Price Lake is an easy walk, ducking in and out of the tickets along the shore…read more If it's rained or snowed recently, make sure to bring footwear that can tolerate a little mud. While trail improvements have eliminated some of the messier areas, the reality is that well worn walking trails also make for welcoming drainage paths. Parking is readily available in a lot adjacent to the dam, or in a larger lot just down from the amputheater (near the boat rentals).

The camp host was unprofessional, rude, and threatened to call the sheriffs department because he…read moresaid we were talking too loud. We were not loud and are filing a complaint. We have been coming here for years but will not pay to be treated this way.

Our family loves North Mills River! If you're looking to hike, fish, ride horses, picnic, camp,…read moreetc. this is a solid spot. The picnic area is very well maintained and each picnic table typically has a charcoal grill to go with it. We really love fishing out here! If you're lucky enough to outsmart the elusive fish out here... you can expect to catch rainbow, brook, and brown trout!

Guides Matt and Jason gave my two boys and me a first class fishing experience. They worked hard…read moreto get us in all of the right holes on the Catawba River, which allowed us to catch more than 50 trout on our trip. They skillfully taught technique, patiently fixed tangles, and brought a great Western Carolina mountain vibe to the whole experience. I'll gladly fish with The Catawba Angler next time I'm in town. A+ experience.

Our trip with Matt did not disappoint. We spent a half day on the French Broad and caught several…read moresmall mouth bass. Matt was professional, knowledgeable, and fun. If we ever come back to this area we will be fishing with him again.

This cabin was Beautiful it was very spacious and Just had a very peaceful atmosphereread more

From the owner: Viking Mountain Lodge is an old, rustic, hand hewn log cabin near the Appalachian Trail in the…read moreSmoky Mountains of Tennessee. It overlooks Paint Creek and is located about halfway between the quaint mountain town of Hot Springs, NC and historic Greeneville, TN. VML is large enough to sleep 15 people in beds, and provides an excellent jumping off point for all kinds of outdoor adventures. Backpacking the Appalachian Trail, whitewater rafting the French Broad, zip lining through the Smokys, fly fishing the Laurel River, mountain biking the Paint Creek Trails, kayaking on the Nolichucky, and horseback riding through Cherokee National Forest, just to name a few. VML is available as a vacation rental for large groups, family reunions, or couples just looking to get away from it all.