Norris Dam State Park
PARK WEATHER
Notification Alert

Campgrounds Closed for Renovations

Norris Dam State Park

The East and West Campgrounds are currently closed for renovation with an intended reopening in 2026. 

We apologize for any inconvenience.

Trailhead Temporarily Closed Due to Construction

Norris Dam State Park

Due to construction associated with the campground renovation on the west side of the park, the trailhead at the Canteen Camp Store is currently inaccessible.

Thank you for your patience and understanding, and please contact the park office if you have any questions.

  • Norris
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    Escape to Norris Dam State Park, a sprawling 4,018-acre haven nestled between the Cumberland and Appalachian Ranges. The park offers a blend of historical significance and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), hike scenic trails, and enjoy the pristine waters along the renowned Norris Lake.
    More About the Park

    Explore the Park

    Safety and Accessibility

    • Safety  

      Norris Dam State Park is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors. The lake area presents potential safety risks due to the steep drop-offs near the shoreline; visitors are advised to exercise caution, especially inexperienced swimmers. The park also recommends wearing a life jacket and checking for cell phone service. In case of an emergency, visitors should call 911 first, then the Ranger duty number at 1-865-809-7888. All Rangers are EMR or EMT certified and can assist with minor injuries.  

    • Accessibility  

      Norris Dam State Park is committed to providing accessible facilities and experiences for all visitors. Accessible parking and restrooms are available throughout the park. For exploring the park's history, the Grist Mill and Lenoir Museum are accessible. Check out our ADA-qualified overnight accommodations.  

      More Accessibility Information

    • Responsible Recreation  

      Tennessee State Parks are dedicated to promoting responsible recreation — encouraging visitors to enjoy the parks’ natural beauty while minimizing their own impact. By practicing Leave No Trace principles and respecting park rules, visitors can help preserve these precious resources for future generations.  

      Find Out How

    Want to Stay Overnight?

    Grist Mill Gift Shop

    Take a step into history at the Grist Mill. The Grist Mill Gift Shop is the perfect place to pick up a map, learn about the park, or find a souvenir. You’ll find an assortment of apparel and keepsakes to remember your trip to the park.

    Open Seasonal Hours. 

    A Step Back in Time

      • Cozy vintage dining room with wooden table set for breakfast.

      Lenoir Museum

      The Lenoir Museum contains artifacts from Early Americana. For over 60 years, Will G. and Helen H. Lenoir gathered and preserved these treasures which were donated to the State of Tennessee. Admission is free. 

      Hours: 
      Wednesday - Sunday
      9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

      Learn More
      • historical watermill surrounded by green trees in the spring

      18th Century Rice Grist Mill

      Originally constructed in 1798 along Lost Creek, this mill was operated by four generations of the Rice family. The mill has had many changes throughout its history: rigged to power a sawmill, a cotton gin, a trip hammer, and even to operate a dynamo that supplied electrical lights for the Rice home in 1899.  

      • Rustic wooden barn by a small creek, surrounded by lush green trees.

      Caleb Crosby Threshing Barn

      Oxen once powered the threshing machine inside the main building. The barn stood for about 100 years along the north side of the Holston River. The land was to be flooded by the building of Cherokee Dam, so the family donated the barn to the National Park Service. The barn remained there dismantled for 34 years. In 1978, the barn was reconstructed at its present site.

    Park Activities

    Park Amenities

    • Bike Trails
    • Birding
    • Boat Ramp
    • Boat Rentals
    • Boat Access
    • Cabins
    • Campground
    • Canoe Access
    • Horseback Riding
    • Fishing
    • Gift Shop
    • Trails
    • Laundromat
    • Marina
    • Meeting Rooms
    • Museum
    • Playground
    • Snack Bar
    • Swimming
    • Visitor Center

    Inspiration

    More Inspiration

    Park Venues

      • theatre

      Amphitheater

      Outdoor Venue 

      The amphitheater is included in the cost for the Tea Room. It has a stone stage surrounded by stone benches.  

      • Spacious wooden hall with high ceiling, stone fireplace, and large windows.

      Tea Room

      The Tea Room is popular for weddings, receptions, company dinners, and other catered events. It features a two-tier floor plan, cathedral ceilings, and a massive stone fireplace.  

      Learn More
      • conference

      Conference Room

      The Norris Dam Conference Room is a great place to escape from the office, but still get work done. With room to seat 15 comfortably, this room can help get the ideas flowing. Refreshments can be provided for an additional charge.  

      Learn More
      • Large conference room with long tables, black chairs, and quilt art on walls.

      Appalachian Center

      The Appalachian Center is a perfect venue for large business meetings, bridal and baby showers, and family reunions. The center is close to the recreation hall, basketball court, tennis court, and a small playground.  

      Learn More
      • Rustic wooden barn by a small creek, surrounded by lush green trees.

      Cosby Threshing Barn

      Outdoor Venue 

      This historic barn is located next to the Grist Mill and creek.  

      Capacity: 50 

      Availability: 4:00 PM – Dark 

      Rates: $121 

    • Wooden shelter in a sunny forest clearing.

    Pavilions

    Norris Dam State Park offers two picnic pavilions in the beautiful historic district near Norris Lake. Both pavilions have electricity and are ideal for your next family gathering or celebration. 

    Capacity: 25 - 80 
    Amenities: picnic tables, grill, access to restrooms, and an accessible playground 
    Rates: $90 - 130 

    Full day shelter reservations may be made online or by calling the park. Picnic pavilions may be reserved online up to one year in advance with a paid reservation fee.  

    There is a $5 cancellation fee for picnic pavilion reservations cancelled eight days or more in advance of the reserved date. Reservations cancelled seven days or less in advance of the reserved date forfeit all paid fees. 

    Reservations may be made by calling the park at 1-865-425-4500 ext. #0.

    Reserve Now

    Lenoir Museum Gift Shop

    The Will G. and Helen H. Lenoir Museum Gift Shop is the perfect place to pick up a book on the area's history and a keepsake to remember your trip to the park.

    2121 Norris Fwy 
    Norris, TN 87828

    Hours: 
    Wednesday - Sunday 
    9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

    For Schools

    Engage your students in a hands-on learning experience with Ranger-led or teacher-led programs at Tennessee State Parks. 

    Request a Program

    Junior Ranger Camp 2026 (SOLD OUT)

    Norris Dam State Park
    bird surrounded by flowers in blue highlight

    PLATINUM

    More Sustainability Information

  • Energy Efficiency

    Building envelope upgrades such as insulation, more efficient lighting, and more energy efficient appliances in cabins. Addition of reflective window film.  

  • Eco-Friendly Practices

    Campground is a Tennessee Valley Camp-Right Campground which means we voluntarily meet and promote environmentally-friendly campground practices for energy efficiency, water conservation, natural resource protection and plant and tree management.  

  • Recycling

    The campground has installed strategically placed trash and recycling dumpsters, removing all individual trash cans and placing signs informing visitors of these locations.  

    • Gift Shops and Stores

    • Lenoir Museum Gift Shop  

      2121 Norris Fwy 
      Norris, TN 37828
      United States

      1-865-494-9688
      Hours

      Wednesday - Sunday
      9:00 AM - 5:00 PM EST  

    • Park Headquarters Gift Shop 

      125 Village Green Circle
      Rocky Top, TN 37769
      United States

      1-865-425-4500
      Hours

      8:00 AM - 4:30 PM EST

    • Gristmill Gift Shop

      Lower Clear Creek Road 
      Norris, TN 37828
      United States

      Hours

      Seasonal

    • Park Canteen

      West Campground
      Andrews Ridge Rd
      Rocky Top, TN 37769
      United States

      Hours

      Seasonal

    Contact Information

    Norris Dam State Park (Main)  

    125 Village Green Circle 
    Rocky Top, TN 37769
    United States

    1-865-425-4500
    Hours

    Park Office Hours:
    8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

    Additional Information

    Reservations & Information 
    1-888-TN-PARKS
    1-888-867-2757
     

    Ranger Duty 
    1-865-809-7888