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The Clinch River, a serene and rugged waterway, flows southwest through the Great Appalachian Valley in Tennessee and Virginia. With its source on Buckhorn Mountain in Virginia, this 337-mile river winds its way to its mouth at the Tennessee River in Kingston, Tennessee. For adventure travelers, the Clinch River offers a paradise of activities. The 13-mile tailwater stretch from Norris Dam to the Highway 61 Bridge near Clinton is a haven for trout fishing, with rainbow, brown, and brook trout awaiting anglers. Kayaking and canoeing are also popular, with the river’s clear waters and majestic scenery making for an unforgettable journey.
Nearby, the American Museum of Science and Energy in Oak Ridge provides a fascinating glimpse into the region’s scientific history. The Norris Dam, the first dam built by the Tennessee Valley Authority, is a historical landmark and engineering marvel. For families, the smooth, slow-moving Class I waters near Norris Dam are ideal for a leisurely drift. Wellness seekers can find tranquility in the river’s scenic beauty and the surrounding Appalachian landscapes, making the Clinch River a multifaceted destination for various types of travelers.
- Surface area (mi)
- 7102.27
- Max depth (ft)
- 209.97
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 0.62
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Cross-country Skiing
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Help us improve by making a suggestion.
Marinas on Clinch River
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Clinch River has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, it is generally safe to swim in the Clinch River in Tennessee. Swimming, boating, and other water-based recreation on the Clinch River are not impacted by significant contaminants, and it is safe to engage in these activities according to the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation and the EPA.
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Clinch River is a popular destination for outdoor activities because it offers kayaking, fishing, and hiking. The river has multiple boat launches and a 100-mile stretch for kayaking, while the surrounding area provides extensive hiking trails and fishing spots.
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In the Clinch River in Tennessee, from December 1 through March 31, the harvest or possession of trout is prohibited, and only catch-and-release fishing is allowed. During this period, only artificial lures such as single hook artificial flies, spinners, and spoons are permitted. Fishing is restricted to one hand-held rod and single hook only.
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There is no public beach at Clinch River State Park. The park focuses on river access for activities like boating, fishing, and hiking, with areas such as the Sugar Hill Unit and Artrip Bent Unit providing river access points but no beaches.
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Towns near Clinch River include Richlands, Virginia, and Clinchport, Virginia. Richlands is located near the river’s origin, while Clinchport is situated along the river in Scott County. Both towns are in the southwestern part of Virginia.
