NEW - Campsite Reservation System
Online reservations for campsites are now available. This service will offer visitors more ease and convenience when it comes to their park stay.
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Harrison Bay Campground Reservations
The 1,200-acre Harrison Bay State Park, with approximately 40 miles of Chickamauga Lake shoreline, was originally developed as a Tennessee Valley Authority recreation demonstration area in the 1930's. Its name is derived from a large bay at the main channel of the Tennessee River that covers the old town of Harrison, and the last Cherokee Campground. The parklands are of historic significance because the Cherokee Campground consisted of three villages which were ruled by one of the last great Cherokee Chieftains, Chief Joe Vann. This beautiful wooded park is a haven for campers, boaters and fishermen, as well as picnickers and other day-use visitors from Chattanooga and the surrounding tri-state area.
Dragonfly and Damselfly Checklist
Biking
Harrison Bay offers a 4.5 mile loop trail that was built with assistance from the Southeast Off-road Bicycle Association. The trail features nice uphill climbs with some fast downhill opportunities as well. The trail is fun and rated for all abilities.
Boating/Marina
All types of boats and water recreation vehicles are allowed at the park. Boats are not available for rent. A boat ramp is available to the general public and there is no fee. The marina can accomodate 20 ft. - 60 ft. boats. The park also has a marina that features 161 covered slips, 28 uncovered slips and four sailboat slips. There is no transit or overnight slip rental available. Fuel is available at the dock.
There is a pump out charge of $5 if you are not docked at our marina. The pump out station is closed after November 1 when the dock is winterized.
A privately owned restaurant is located at the marina. More information.
Tennessee Boating Regulations (exit TDEC)
Camping
NEW – Harrison Bay Campground Reservations are now available online.
There are 128 RV campsites with water and electrical hookups and a limited number that can accomodate RV's up to 65 ft. There is one centralized dumping station. Bathhouses are located in each of the 4 camping areas as well as a playground.
There are 21 tent only campsites that do not have electrical/water hookups. Tents can be put up beside the RV but is limited to one family unit per site.
For more information call: 423-344-7966
Fishing
Enjoy lake fishing at the park. Expect catches of bass, bluegill and catfish. A valid TN fishing license is required.
Tennessee Fishing Regulations (exit TDEC)
Tennessee State Parks fishing policies
Golf
The Bear Trace at Harrison Bay is characterized by the presence of both water and heavily-wooded land with soaring pine and hardwood trees.
This popular location is often noted as “the best natural piece of land for a golf course" and a reflection of the traditional Jack Nicklaus emphasis on overall integrity and playability for golfers of all ability. The Bear Trace at Harrison Bay is also one of the most highly recognized environmentally sensitive courses in the nation. It is certified by Audubuon International for its conservation and habitat practices and also registered as the first Groundwater Guardian Green Site in Tennessee. This outstanding course is just 20 minutes north of downtown Chattanooga. Call 1-888-800-BEAR (2327) to contact the pro shop.
Tee times may be reserved by calling the golf course or you may make Online Tee
Time Reservations at The Bear Trace Golf Course at Harrison Bay.
Learn more about the Bear Trace Golf Course at Harrison Bay on the Tennessee Golf Trail.
Group Camping
The park's group camp consists of 24 rustic cabins that can accommodate up to 144 persons. The group camp kitchen is fully equipped with utencils, commercial stove and oven (gas), household size refrigerator/freezer and a walk-in cooler. A common bathhouse houses both men's and women's restrooms and showers. Each section has six showers.
For more information call: 423-344-2272
Hiking Trails
There are three hiking trails at the park. There is a 4.5 mile trail, a .5 mile trail and 1 mile trail. Trails are open year-round. There is a biking trail available at the marina.
Meeting Facility
The park has one large meeting room available that is capable of seating 100 people. For more information contact the park office: 423-344-6214.
Picnic Facilities
The park has 3 large pavilions to accommodate large groups. Pavilions may be reserved up to one year in advance. Grills and water spigots are provided.
There are four individual picnic areas, each equipped with a grill.
Restaurant
A privately owned restaurant is located at the Harrison Bay marina, Dockside Cafe. Enjoy the view of Tennessee River and the marina while eating a wonderful meal. Visit the web at http://www.dockside-cafe.com/ for more information or call 423-344-9998.
Swimming
The park has an olympic size swimming pool and a wading pool for small children. The pool is open from Memorial Day through late summer. A lifeguard is on duty.
All park public pools will be closed on Monday and Tuesday, except Holiday weeks. Please call the park for those schedules. Camping guests will pay half price for admission to the pool.
Other Activities
All activities are seasonal, the park recreator has activities five days a week during the season. Activities to enjoy at the park include basketball, softball, volleyball, tennis and horseshoes. Equipment can be checked out at camper check-in during the off season.
Tour Buses
Tour buses are welcome.