The Ocoee powerhouses, dams and flume line are part of an ambitious hydroelectric power project that began in 1910. Constructed by Eastern Tennessee Power Company, this series of historic hydroelectric structures are tucked into the narrow Ocoee River Gorge, all located within a stretch of only 12 miles. Ocoee Dam Number One was built over the site of the old…
Nancy Ward, Beloved Woman of the Overhill Cherokees, and her son Fivekiller are buried here. Their graves overlook the pastoral landscape along the Ocoee River, near where she operated an inn at Womankiller Ford in her later years. The site is owned by the State of Tennessee and managed by the Hiwassee/Ocoee Hiwassee State Park. See the Nancy Ward…
The Hiwassee/Ocoee State Park straddles both sides of the Hiwassee and Ocoee Rivers. The Hiwassee is great for canoeing, rafting, and fishing, while the Ocoee provides Class III and IV whitewater rapids. For river-side camping, check out Gee Creek Campground. Hiwassee/Ocoee State Park Brochure | Hiwassee/Ocoee State Park Map Hiwassee/Ocoee State Park 423-263-0050 or 888-867-2757 www.tnstateparks.com/parks/about/hiwassee-ocoee
Ocoee Recreational Area The oldest man-made lake in the Cherokee National Forest, it was created in 1910-11 with the building of Ocoee Dam Number One (Parksville Dam). Sometimes known as Lake Ocoee, this 1,930-acre is popular for water skiing, pontoon boating, jet skiing, swimming, and picnicking. It has two public boat launches located along Hwy 64. Just below the dam…
Cherokee National Forest is located in the Southern Appalachian Mountains of east Tennessee. The 600-acre forest is the largest tract of public land in Tennessee and is divided into northern and southern sections by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The southern portion of the Cherokee National Forest forms the heart of the Tennessee Overhill. This vast playground is known…
Site of the 1996 Olympic Canoe and Kayak Slalom Races, the Ocoee River hosts several whitewater events each year. Commercial river outfitters offer expert guides to help you capture the excitement of the Class III and Class IV rapids. Whitewater enthusiasts can now take guided trips on the Olympic Race Channel, located at the Ocoee Whitewater Center. Check with the…
