Rhea County, TN FAQs
What is the history of Rhea County, TN and what are its notable landmarks?
- The first inhabitants of Rhea County were Cherokee and Chickamauga Native American tribes, who lived in the area for centuries before the arrival of European settlers.Â
- In the 18th century, the area became a popular destination for Scottish and Irish immigrants, who were drawn to the fertile land and mild climate.Â
- During the Civil War, Rhea County was heavily divided, with many residents supporting the Confederacy and others remaining loyal to the Union.
Notable Landmarks:
- Rhea County Courthouse
- the most famous landmark in Rhea County
- the site of the famous Scopes Monkey Trial in 1925. The trial pitted the teachings of evolution against those of creationism, and it drew national attention at the time.
- Watts Bar Lake
- a popular destination for boating, fishing, and other water activities.Â
- The lake is fed by the Tennessee River and spans more than 39,000 acres, making it one of the largest lakes in the state.
- Fort Southwest Point
- a historic site located in nearby Kingston, TN
- built in 1797 as a military outpost to protect against Native American attacks and served as an important trading post during the early days of settlement in the area.
- Spring City Depo
- a restored train station that dates back to the early 1900s
- erves as a museum and community center
- features exhibits on local history and railroad culture.
- Laurel-Snow State Natural Area
- a popular destination for hiking and camping
- features several trails, including the 2.7-mile Laurel Falls Trail, which leads to a stunning waterfall.
What are the recreational activities available in Rhea County, TN?
- Boating and Fishing: Rhea County has several lakes and rivers where visitors can enjoy boating and fishing. The most popular spots include Watts Bar Lake, Tennessee River, and Piney River.
- Hiking: The Cumberland Trail, which is a scenic footpath that extends from the Tennessee River Gorge to the Cumberland Gap, passes through Rhea County. There are several hiking trails in the area that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Wildlife Viewing: Rhea County is home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and bald eagles. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing at one of the many wildlife management areas in the county.
- Golfing: Rhea County has several golf courses that offer challenging layouts and stunning scenery. Some of the most popular courses include Dayton Golf and Country Club, Springbrook Golf and Country Club, and Lake Tansi Golf Course.
- Camping: There are several campgrounds and RV parks in Rhea County that offer a variety of camping experiences, from primitive camping to full RV hookups. Some of the most popular campgrounds include Chickamauga Dam Recreation Area, Cumberland Trail State Park, and Fall Creek Falls State Park.
- Water Sports: Rhea County’s many lakes and rivers also offer opportunities for water sports such as swimming, kayaking, and water skiing. Several marinas in the area provide boat rentals and other water sports equipment.