TVA closes more public recreation areas, including boat ramps

KNOXVILLE – In response to enhanced public health guidance from federal and state authorities, the Tennessee Valley Authority is closing additional public recreation areas to help slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus. The closures will begin on Friday morning, April 3, and will continue indefinitely.

Image by Jeaneane Payne

TVA recreation areas at Chatuge, Cherokee, Fort Loudoun, the south side of Guntersville, Normandy, Norris, Tellico and Watts Bar dams, as well as all recreation areas at Raccoon Mountain, will be closed. They join the previously closed recreation areas at Chickamauga and South Holston dams, and the Rockpile area near Muscle Shoals, Ala.

Boat ramps within the impacted areas will also be closed, as well as all picnic areas, restrooms, beaches, and pavilions. The public is asked not to bypass gates, fences, or barricades to access the closed areas. Law enforcement officers will be patrolling closed areas.

TVA river access points located at locations outside the affected recreation areas remain open at this time. Trails on the more than 200,000 acres of undeveloped public land TVA manages also remain open at this time.

TVA will continue to monitor the evolving COVID-19 outbreak and will take additional actions, as necessary, to help protect public health and safety.

Published April 2, 2020