The 1,200-acre Harrison Bay State Park, with approximately 40 miles of Chickamauga Lake shoreline, was originally developed as a Tennessee Valley Authority recreation demonstration area in the 1930's. Its name is derived from a large bay at the main channel of the Tennessee River that covers the old town of Harrison, and the last Cherokee Campground. The parklands are of historic significance because the Cherokee Campground consisted of three villages which were ruled by one of the last great Cherokee Chieftains, Chief Joe Vann. This beautiful wooded park is a haven for campers, boaters and fishermen, as well as picnickers and other day-use visitors from Chattanooga and the surrounding tri-state area.
All activities are seasonal, the park recreator has activities five days a week during the season. Activities to enjoy at the park include basketball, softball, volleyball, tennis and horseshoes. Equipment can be checked out at camper check-in during the off season.
There are three hiking trails at the park. There is a 4.5 mile trail, a .5 mile trail and 1 mile trail. Trails are open year-round. There is a biking trail available at the marina.
Directions:
From Chattanooga: Take Exit 4 off I-75 onto State Route 153. Travel North on Hwy 153 and at the sixth exit, Hwy 58, turn north. Travel approximately 12 miles to Harrison Bay Road on the left. Follow the signs to the park entrance. The park is approximately one mile on the left.
From Knoxville: From I-75, take Exit 25, Hwy 60. Travel on Hwy 60 approximately nine miles to Hwy 58. Turn South at Highway 58 and travel approximately 15 miles to Harrison Bay Road. Turn right onto Harrison Bay Road. The park entrance is approximately one mile on the left.
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This site was last updated 05/31/06