Watauga Lake for Scenic History

Watauga Lake is rich with colors this fall and holds a history beneath the lake that has been passed down for generations.

History of the Lake

Watauga Lake is a man-made reservoir with an interesting backstory! The Watauga Dam was constructed in 1942, shortly after the US entered World War II. Due to the war effort, construction was put on hold and resumed in 1946. On New Year’s Eve of 1948, the Tennessee Valley Authority flooded the town of “Old Butler” and relocated it to higher ground, generating hydropower downstream in Northeast Tennessee.

Old Butler was originally settled in 1786, now sitting at the bottom of the lake. It was known as a place where pioneers and Native Americans interacted and farmed together for decades. When the dam was built, the town moved to higher ground and formed “New” Butler, which is now home to the Butler Museum.

The name “Watauga” is from the Native American word Wata’gi. Though the word’s original meaning has been lost over the centuries, it’s thought to translate to “beautiful waters,” or “clear waters.”

Top Things to Do

Now that you know the area’s fascinating backstory, it’s time to start planning activities for your visit.

Here are the top things to do around the area:

1. Camp in Cherokee National Forest

Much of the shoreline of Watauga Lake is within the Cherokee National Forest, making it a haven for hiking and camping. Some great nearby options for an overnight trip are Cardens Bluff Campground, Dennis Cove Recreation Area, and along the Appalachian Trail.

2. Paddling

Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, or rent a pontoon for the day! Watauga Lake hosts a great location for sailing, just ask our friends of the Watauga Lake Sailing Club.

3. Cast a Line

With more than a dozen species of game fish including bass, trout, catfish, and bluegill, Watauga Lake is a destination for anglers. Fish from your own boat, a rented boat, or one of the many access points surrounding the lake.

4. Enjoy a Hike

Watauga Lake is surrounded by trail systems that cater to hikers of all skill levels. Venture onto the Appalachian Trail to the north or south from the Shook Branch area or explore the rugged trails within Pond Mountain Wilderness.

5. Visit Watauga Lake Winery

Enjoy live music, wine or cocktails with a scenic mountain backdrop at this one of a kind hidden winery.

6. Visit Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park

Learn more about the region’s history at this timeless state park. Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park offers an abundance of parking, walking trails, and historical information on the relationship between English settlers and Cherokee dating back to the 1700s.

7. Visit the Butler Museum

“New” Butler is home to a fascinating museum that chronicles the town that now lies at the bottom of Watauga Lake. Visitors can learn about Old Butler’s history and residents through photographs, artifacts, exhibits, and other memorabilia.

There’s More Up Here!

Check out Holidays on Main Street in Elizabethton, just down the road!

Originally written by Madison Eubanks in April 2020 for Matcha in partnership with NETTA, Revised by Allie Bynum October 2023.