Watauga Point Recreation Area
Cherokee National Forest, Tennessee
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As of September 2026, Watauga Point Recreation Area is a campground in Tennessee with 2 campsites. Watauga Point Recreation Area is booked through Recreation.gov.
- PermitSnag checks Watauga Point Recreation Area for availability and alerts watchers when a site opens up.
- Watauga Point Recreation Area is located at 36.3208° N, 82.0856° W.
Watauga Point Recreation Area reservations and next available dates
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September 2026
Campsites at Watauga Point Recreation Area
- Group 2
- Accessible 1
Amenities
- restrooms
- potable water
- boat ramp
At a glance: Setting: Mountain · Access: Gravel road.
Things to do: boating, hiking, photography.
All sites at Watauga Point Recreation Area, as listed by Recreation.gov
Every site is in the WATAUGA POINT RECREATION AREA loop.
| Site | Type | Access |
|---|---|---|
| Watauga Point Recreation Area - Pavilion | Group | Accessible |
| Watauga Point Recreation Area - Shady area | Group | - |
About Watauga Point Recreation Area
Overview
Watauga Point Recreation Area is open for the 2026 season. Watauga Point Recreation Area is located on the southern shore of Watauga Lake in Carter County. Large shade trees scattered throughout grassy areas provide a park setting for picnicking and sunbathing. In addition to picnic facilities, there is a lake and a gravel trail that loops through the nearby forest.
Recreation
Boaters, anglers, and picnickers all enjoy Watauga Point. There is a wooded trail on site as well.
Facilities
Watauga Point Recreation Area has one pavilion with electricity, a shady area, accessible flush toilets, and several other picnic tables and pedestal grills spread throughout. There are six picnic tables and two large grills at the pavilion. The shady area has five picnic tables and two grills. The pavilion and shady area are both reservable. Please make sure you are reserving the right thing (either the pavilion or the shady area) when making your reservation.
Natural Features
At more than 1,900 feet in elevation, Watauga is the highest reservoir in Tennessee. This scenic 6,400-acre reservoir is managed for flood management, power generation, aquatic ecology and recreation. Watauga Point overlooks the reservoir and the Big Laurel Branch Wilderness Area on the opposite shore.
Nearby Attractions
Both water-based and land-based recreation activities abound near Watauga Point Recreation Area. Forest Service facilities within three miles include Cardens Bluff Campground, Rat Branch Boat Ramp, and Pond Mountain Shooting Range.
Contact Info
This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (423) 735-1500.
Recreation.gov permit and campground cancellations →
Watauga Point Recreation Area FAQ
How hard is it to get a campsite at Watauga Point Recreation Area?
Watauga Point Recreation Area is rated "Very Hard to Book" based on historical demand. This campground is popular and often books out weeks in advance. Your best strategy is to monitor cancellations.
How do I find last-minute availability at Watauga Point Recreation Area?
Cancellations happen frequently at Watauga Point Recreation Area, especially 1-2 weeks before check-in dates. PermitSnag monitors availability 24/7 and sends instant alerts when sites open up due to cancellations. This is often the best way to snag popular campsites.
How many campsites does Watauga Point Recreation Area have?
Watauga Point Recreation Area has 2 campsites.
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