Harrison Bay State Park, Tennessee

Harrison Bay State Park is a scenic and well-developed recreational area located on the shores of Chickamauga Lake in Hamilton County, Tennessee. Situated just outside Chattanooga, the park covers approximately 1,200 acres of shoreline, forest, and rolling terrain. As one of the first Tennessee state parks developed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), Harrison Bay is a longstanding favorite for boating, camping, hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing in the southeastern part of the state.

Fishing

Harrison Bay offers excellent fishing opportunities thanks to its location on Chickamauga Lake, one of the top bass fishing lakes in the country. Anglers can expect to catch largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish, and occasional striped bass. Fishing is productive year-round, but spring and fall offer the best conditions, particularly for bass and crappie.

Fishing piers and numerous shoreline access points are available within the park. For boat anglers, the nearby boat ramp allows easy access to wider areas of Chickamauga Lake, known for producing trophy-sized bass.

Boating and Water Recreation

Boating is a major attraction at Harrison Bay State Park. The park’s location on the expansive Chickamauga Lake provides miles of navigable water perfect for pontoon cruising, water skiing, wakeboarding, and paddling. A large marina with slips, boat rentals, fuel, and supplies is located within the park. Kayaks and canoes are also popular for exploring the coves and quiet inlets along the bay’s shoreline.

Camping

Harrison Bay State Park features one of the largest and most popular campgrounds in the Tennessee state park system. With over 150 campsites, many of which include electric and water hookups, the campground accommodates tents, trailers, and RVs. Amenities include modern bathhouses, a dump station, a camp store, and playgrounds.

Many sites are shaded and situated along the water, offering beautiful views and easy lake access. Campers enjoy a peaceful environment with close proximity to hiking trails and picnic areas.

Hiking and Outdoor Exploration

The park offers a network of scenic hiking and biking trails, including the well-loved Bay Point Loop Trail. This 4.5-mile loop meanders along the lake’s shoreline and through forested areas, providing excellent views of the water and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation. White-tailed deer, wild turkeys, herons, and bald eagles are commonly spotted.

Additional trails connect campgrounds and day-use areas, making it easy to explore different parts of the park on foot or by bike.

Golf and Additional Amenities

Harrison Bay is home to the Bear Trace at Harrison Bay, a Jack Nicklaus-designed 18-hole championship golf course. The course is considered one of the best public golf courses in Tennessee and features scenic fairways, challenging layouts, and a driving range.

Other park amenities include group pavilions, picnic shelters, basketball courts, a swimming pool (open seasonally), and a park office with maps and information. Educational programs and ranger-led events are held throughout the year.

Hunting

Hunting is not permitted within Harrison Bay State Park. However, nearby Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) offer seasonal hunting opportunities for deer, turkey, and small game. Hunters should refer to Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) regulations and secure the proper permits before participating.

Best Time to Visit

Harrison Bay State Park is a year-round destination, but the most popular times to visit are spring through fall. Spring offers excellent fishing, blooming wildflowers, and mild temperatures. Summer is peak season for boating, swimming, and family camping. Fall brings vibrant foliage and cooler weather perfect for hiking and golfing. Winter sees fewer crowds, offering a peaceful escape with opportunities for quiet wildlife viewing and off-season camping.

Nearby Attractions

• Chattanooga, Tennessee – A short drive away, offering attractions such as the Tennessee Aquarium, Lookout Mountain, and the Chattanooga Riverwalk.
• Booker T. Washington State Park – Located just across the lake, offering additional trails and picnic areas.
• North Chickamauga Creek Gorge – Popular for hiking and exploring rugged terrain just north of the park.
• Enterprise South Nature Park – Offers mountain biking trails and wooded hiking paths near the Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga.

Conclusion

Harrison Bay State Park combines natural beauty, modern amenities, and easy access to water recreation, making it one of Tennessee’s most family-friendly and accessible state parks. With its location on Chickamauga Lake and proximity to Chattanooga, the park is ideal for weekend getaways, extended camping trips, and day visits. Whether you’re fishing at sunrise, hiking through quiet woods, or teeing off on the golf course, Harrison Bay offers a classic Tennessee outdoor experience.