An escape to the "sea" in East Tennessee

October 15, 11:06 PMKnoxville Day Trips ExaminerClayton Hensley

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The shores of the "Loyston Sea" provide a quiet refuge.  Photo by C. Hensley

Gentle waves wash up on a sandy beach surrounded by tall trees and high ridges.  In the distance is an island with no signs of human life.  No, this isn't the ocean, it's Norris Lake.   More precisely it's Loyston Point Recreation Area, a TVA governed refuge overlooking what locals refer to as the "Loyston Sea," the widest point on Norris Lake.

Here at Loyston Point the waters of Norris Lake are crystal clear (at least on the day of my visit).   Dozens of small fish begin jumping from the water creating circles as they frolic.   Further up the shore,  a Blue Heron fishes from a small bend in the shoreline before taking flight and gliding high above the water toward the island in the middle of the lake.

At Loyston Point it is easy to forget that in the distance is a well developed marina and condominiums, a rare site on this massive TVA lake.   Loyston Point has a campground, picnic facilities and the Hemlock Bluff National Recreation Trail as well as a sandy beach for use during the summer months.  

Before TVA built Norris Dam, the space between the shores belonged to the small community of Loyston.  The people of the community opted to stay close by when the land buyouts came, and the result was "New Loyston" nearby.   Even with the freeflowing Clinch River gone, it's easy to understand from the view at Loyston Point, why the people didn't want to leave, you won't either. 

Directions: To get to Loyston Point, just take Highway 61 East off I-75 at Exit 122.   When you get into Andersonville, look for a sign to Loyston Point.  You'll take a left there on Park Road following it to Boy Scout Road (not Old Boy Scout Road).   Another sign points you in the direction of Loyston Point, which is about another 3 miles.  The views from the road make the drive worthwhile.To use other templates select the template button to the right of the source button above.

For more info:  TVA Camping Info at Loyston Point