Proximity to Knoxville Unveiled

Situated in Tennessee, Melton Hill Lake gracefully extends 57 miles from Melton Hill Dam to Norris Dam, weaving through the picturesque counties of Anderson, Knox, Roane, and Loudon. This sprawling lake has become a magnet for diverse water activities, offering a serene escape.

Easy Access to Urban Centers

Major roadways, including Interstate 40, Interstate 75, and Oak Ridge Highway, serve as gateways to the lake area. Knoxville, a mere 15 to 20 miles east of Melton Hill, boasts prominent landmarks such as McGhee Tyson Airport, Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center, and the University of Tennessee.

Scenic Wonders at Every Turn

Encompassing 5,470 acres and boasting 173 miles of shoreline, Melton Hill Lake captivates with its tranquil beauty. The dam, a monumental feat completed in 1903, stands 103 feet tall and spans 1,020 feet across. Tree-covered hillsides grace the lake’s contours, creating a serene backdrop for activities like walking, jogging, and biking along the reservoir’s paths.

Recreational Paradise

Melton Hill Lake’s glassy waters offer ideal conditions for competitive racing, establishing it as one of the nation’s premier regatta venues. Beyond racing, the lake invites enthusiasts to partake in boating, fishing, water skiing, tubing, paddle boarding, kayaking, and canoeing.

Fishing aficionados will find a variety of species, including musky, largemouth, smallmouth, hybrid, and striped bass, crappie, and skipjack herring. The warm water outflow from the Bull Run Steam Plant is a hotspot for anglers.

Diverse Attractions

Explore the vastness of Haw Ridge Park, a 780-acre haven on one of Melton Hill’s peninsulas, offering over 30 miles of mountain biking trails suitable for hiking, jogging, and horseback riding. Geocaches scattered throughout the park add a treasure hunt element, while a small BMX track enhances the recreational offerings.

Lakeside parks like Melton Lake Park, Bull Run Park, and Melton Hill Park further enrich the experience. Nearby Oak Ridge hosts attractions like the University of Tennessee Arboretum, the Children’s Museum of Oak Ridge, and the Oak Ridge Art Center.

Urban Charms and Lake Living

Knoxville, with its abundance of shops, boutiques, restaurants, and bars, stands as a vibrant hub. Prominent landmarks such as the Knoxville Zoo, Sunsphere Tower, and Market Square add to the city’s allure.

Whether seeking a full-time residence, weekend retreat, or rental property, Melton Hill Lake offers a quintessential lake living experience.

Lake Information

  • Shoreline: 193 miles
  • Acreage: 5,960 acres
  • Water Level: Full Pool Year Round
  • Dam: Melton Hill Dam
  • Ownership: Public
  • Dam Managed By: Tennessee Valley Authority
  • Dam Year Built: 1960
  • Public Boat Ramps: 2
  • Counties: Anderson County, Knox County, Loudon County, Roane County
  • Fish: Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Striped Bass, White Crappie
  • Sailing Clubs: Yes
  • Condos Available: No
  • Notable Events: Rowing regattas
  • Permit is not required to use the lake.
    Jet skis are allowed.
    Motorized boats are allowed.
    Houseboats are allowed with restrictions. — Must be navigable
    Boating restrictions (Yes). — Age restrictions, PFD’s, noise level (See https://www.tn.gov/twra/article/boating-regulations)
    Dock restrictions (Yes). — Must obtain permit to construct or enhance (See https://www.tva.gov/Environment/Shoreline-Construction)

  • Resources Nearby

    Nashville International Airport

    Phone: (615) 275-1675
    Address: 1 Terminal Dr, Nashville, TN 37214

    McGhee Tyson Airport

    Phone: (865) 342-3000
    Address: 2055 Alcoa Hwy, Alcoa, TN 37701

    Melton Hill Dam Campground

    Phone: (865) 361-0436
    Address: 201 Campground Rd Lenoir City, TN 37771

    Sportsman's Campground and RV Park

    Phone: (865) 435-6009
    Address: 300 Hoskins Gap Rd Oliver Springs, TN 37840

    Windrock Park Campground

    Phone: (865) 435-1251
    Address: 555 Windrock Park Ln Oliver Springs, TN 37840

    Centennial Golf Course

    Phone: (865) 483-2291
    Address: 101 Centennial Blvd Oak Ridge, TN 37830

    Des Mahoney Golf Academy

    Phone: (865) 919-2126
    Address: 101 Centennial Blvd Oak Ridge, TN 37830

    Oak Ridge Country Club

    Phone: (865) 482-2436
    Address: 150 Gum Hollow Rd Oak Ridge, TN 37831

    Melton Hill Lake Marina

    Phone: (865) 927-0071
    Address: 9133 Solway Ferry Rd Oak Ridge, TN 37830

    Fort Loudoun Medical Center

    Phone: (865) 271-6000
    Address: 550 Fort Loudoun Medical Center Dr Lenoir City, TN 37772