South Holston Lake

Just a 20 minute drive outside of Abingdon's town limits, South Holston Lake stretches over miles of open water, surrounded by pristine mountain ridges. About 60% of the shoreline is bordered by the Cherokee National Forest, and much of the shoreline is undeveloped, making it one of the most scenic lakes in Virginia. (The 7580-acre reservoir straddles the VA/TN border.)

The lake offers plenty of amenities for visitors, including boat, kayak and jetski rentals, an aqua park, stand up paddleboarding, fishing and even scuba diving.

Check out our directory listings for information on The Sportsman's Marina, Painter Creek Marina, and Friendship Resort and Marina, as well as numerous outfitters and gear shops that offer guided fishing trips and fishing gear.

South Holston Lake panorama credit Jason Barnette