If you’ve never made your way out to Lake Watauga, then you need to hop in the car and get yourself on a road trip – ASAP. This gorgeous spot is located in East Tennessee, a hidden lake with a haunting story that is sure to bring your greatest summer dreams to life. Think we’re wrong? Try us.

Decaseconds - Flickr Watauga Lake was formed after the completion of the TVA Watauga Dam in 1948. It has since provided eastern Tennessee with a span of water that runs clean and clear.

Adam Caudil - Flickr It’s a popular spot for vacation rentals, and many find themselves staying throughout the summer and spending the rugged winters somewhere a bit further south.

Robert Karma - Flickr Located in the Cherokee National Forest, the land is protected and maintains quite a bit of its original integrity.

DM - Flickr Boating, canoeing, paddleboarding and jet skiing are among some of the most popular activities on the lake. There’s also a plethora of options if you’re looking to go hiking.

Brent Moore - Flickr A beautiful spot, a bit of calm in the storm of life, you’ll fall in love with Watauga Lake. And believe us - you’re never going to want to leave. Ever.

You’re planning a trip now, aren’t you? Yep. You’re welcome.

Decaseconds - Flickr

Watauga Lake was formed after the completion of the TVA Watauga Dam in 1948. It has since provided eastern Tennessee with a span of water that runs clean and clear.

Adam Caudil - Flickr

It’s a popular spot for vacation rentals, and many find themselves staying throughout the summer and spending the rugged winters somewhere a bit further south.

Robert Karma - Flickr

Located in the Cherokee National Forest, the land is protected and maintains quite a bit of its original integrity.

DM - Flickr

Boating, canoeing, paddleboarding and jet skiing are among some of the most popular activities on the lake. There’s also a plethora of options if you’re looking to go hiking.

Brent Moore - Flickr

A beautiful spot, a bit of calm in the storm of life, you’ll fall in love with Watauga Lake. And believe us - you’re never going to want to leave. Ever.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.