Lake Chickamauga is a reservoir along the Tennessee River dating back to the completion of the Chickamauga Dam under the Tennessee Valley Authority in 1940. The lake’s southern end serves as a hub for many recreational and outdoor activities. Chickamauga Lake derived its name from the ‘Chickamauga,’ a Cherokee Nation people who once inhabited the region.

Positioned just downstream from Watts Bar Lake and upstream from Nickajack Lake, Chickamauga Lake spans an impressive 58.9 miles, stretching from Watts Bar Dam to Chickamauga Dam.

The lake operates within a normal range until the end of March when it gradually rises to its summer levels by mid-May. Full pool levels are maintained through the end of August, followed by a gradual decrease toward the end of November. Actual lake levels may fluctuate due to various factors, including weather conditions.