Watauga Point Picnic Area

Area Status: Open

Watauga Point Picnic 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 gravel trail that loops through the nearby forest. A large pavilion and large shady area with tables are available to rent for your family gatherings or other events. There is not a designated swim area. Swimming is at your own risk.

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	Watauga Point Recreation Area has closed reservations for the season. The bathrooms are closed and have been winterized for the season. The area is open for you to drive through, but note that the bathrooms have been closed and winterized. Watauga Point plans to re-open to reservations on Monday, April 3, 2023. The bathrooms plan to be de-winterized and water turned on ON OR AFTER April 3, 2023, depending on weather.
Operational Hours:	The area is open between dawn and dusk. Please note the bathrooms are CLOSED for the winter season.
Reservations:
Area Amenities:	Accessible,Fee charged for some activities,Picnic tables,Toilets,Drinking water,Parking
Fees:	There is no day-use fee charged at this site. To reserve the covered pavilion or the grassy area, for $30 each per day, contact Recreation.gov
Open Season:	4/3/2023 - 10/10/2023
Restrictions:	Watauga Point is for Day-use only, from sunrise to sunset. No overnight camping. Alcohol is prohibited. No burning of plastic or other non-wood products except charcoal in grills. Pets must be on a maximum 6 ft. leash at all times, and pick up after them. Food storage restrictions apply at all areas on the Cherokee National Forest. All food and beverages must be stored in an approved bear-proof container or your locked vehicle at all times unless being eaten, prepared, or transported. It is your responsibility to read, know, understand, and follow all specific rules and regulations which are also posted at the day-use area.
Closest Towns:	Elizabethton, TN and Hampton, TN
Water:	Drinking Water
Restroom:	Flush Toilets
Operated By:	US Forest Service

General Information

Directions: From Elizabethton, take US 19E/321 south for five miles to Hampton. Turn left on US 321/TN 67 south for five miles, then turn left into Watauga Point.

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Picnicking

A picnic area with large shade trees helps keep you cool from the summer sun.

No. of Sites	There are 41 picnic tables.
Reservation Info	The pavilion, and grassy area, can each be reserved for $30 a day by calling 877-444-6777, or by going online at recreation.gov.

Group Picnicking

Looking for a place for a group picnic? A portion of Watauga Point can be reserved for one-day group gatherings. Make your reservations at www.Recreation.gov