Watauga Lake Area
Federal / Recreation.gov
Water recreation is abundant in this area, featuring Watauga Lake; the Doe, Elk and Watauga rivers; several streams and seven waterfalls. Highly developed recreation areas along Watauga Lake provide facilities for fishing, picnicking, swimming and boat launching. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail runs through the area's backcountry. Camp on the lakeshore at Cardens Bluff or in the backcountry along Laurel Fork Creek at Dennis Cove. Watuaga Lake Area Map Watuaga Lake Area Guide
Location
Research the approach roads and terrain here. When you're ready to drive, open directions in your preferred app below.
Research map · not turn-by-turn nav
36.32096, -81.97887
Get directions
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Tip: download offline maps before you lose cell service in the woods.
Trip-ready check
Live · National Weather Service · updated 9:10 AMWhat to check the night before you leave — forecast, alerts, and daylight for Butler, TN.
Today
86°F
Sunny
1% rain · wind 0 to 5 mph
Tonight
65°F
Partly Cloudy then Slight Chance Rain Showers
18% rain · wind 0 to 5 mph
Friday
87°F
Chance Rain Showers then Chance Showers And Thunderstorms
46% rain · wind 0 mph
Friday Night
64°F
Chance Showers And Thunderstorms then Partly Cloudy
32% rain · wind 0 mph
Saturday
84°F
Showers And Thunderstorms
89% rain · wind 0 mph
Saturday Night
65°F
Showers And Thunderstorms
89% rain · wind 0 mph
Forecast: weather.gov point forecast. Conditions change — re-check the morning you leave.
Everything you need to know
- Drive time (set your own plan)
- Not estimated for this listing — map it from your home
- Access
- See details
- Hike-in
- Confirm on site / map
- Pass required
- Check the facility page (day-use fees vary; many federal sites are free)
- Parking
- See facility details
- Camping
- No camping here (facility) — camp nearby
- Max stay
- Check local rules
- Reservation
- None for day use
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