Spring Break Fun

Spring break is a beautiful time to visit the 9 Lakes.  Expect warm days averaging the upper 60’s and lower 70’s which are perfect temperatures for that active outdoor adventure hiking, biking, or exploring a favorite attraction.  After the winter season, the  region is already bursting with colorful flowers, tree buds, and greening grass. To get out and enjoy the warmth of the season, we are providing some suggestions for your group to discover new spring break vacation ideas and places to play.

Early season is a great time to visit the lake and explore before the summer season rush.  Try staying in a “tiny home” for a cozy, family experience.  The Cottages at Indian River on Norris Lake offer you a chance to live “tiny” while enjoying the “large” amenities of fishing, boating, and paddling.  Many of the waterside restaurants will be opening for the season as early as mid-April.

Or dust of your camping gear and stock up the RV.  TVA Campgrounds and TN State campgrounds open in mid-March. Melton Hill Campground is one of five TVA campgrounds that features waterside sites plus full hook ups. Equally beautiful is the majesty of mountain camping.  In the 9 Lakes, there are seven state parks to explore. Frozen Head State Park offers wooded sites and miles of hiking trails.  In early season, search for wildflowers, magical waterfalls, or take advantage of uncrowded biking and hiking trails.  At the end of the day, enjoy an evening campfire and the beauty of the night skies.

Try a learning vacation.  The 9 Lakes is home to many historical sites including the Manhattan Project National Historic Park and the newly renovated Sequoyah Birthplace Museum.  Learn about frontier life at James White Fort and Historic Rugby, or explore the future at AMSE.  Absorb the history that this region played in shaping modern America.

Or try a service day vacation.  Each year, local partners host lake clean up days to pull debris from shorelines and lake coves.  Join in and roll up your sleeves in helping these groups keep the lakes beautiful.  These are fun, community events and volunteers are provided gloves, bags, and water transportation.  Events are planned on Norris Lake on March 30 and on Cherokee Lake on April 6.   Student service credit hours are available for youth groups, college groups, and service organizations.