Calm lake with campground

French Broad River Vacation Rentals

French Broad River

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French Broad River
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Why Rent On French Broad River

The French Broad River, a 213-mile waterway, is a vibrant artery through the heart of Tennessee, offering a diverse array of adventures for travelers of all kinds. Beginning near Rosman, North Carolina, it flows into Tennessee, where it is impounded behind Douglas Dam before converging with the Holston River in Knoxville.

For adventure seekers, the river’s scenic blueway provides numerous access points for kayaking, canoeing, and whitewater rafting, particularly through the Cherokee National Forest. Guided rafting trips and equipment rentals are available, making it accessible to both novices and experienced paddlers.

Wellness enthusiasts will find solace in the river’s tranquil stretches and surrounding natural beauty, including the Seven Islands State Birding Park, a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Families can enjoy picnicking, fishing, and hiking along the extensive trail system, with popular spots like Paint Creek and Brush Creek offering a mix of scenic drives and outdoor activities.

Historical landmarks such as the majestic Douglas Dam, a key piece of American history, add a layer of depth to the area. The nearby city of Knoxville, with its rich cultural scene, offers additional attractions, including various museums and historical sites, making the French Broad River a comprehensive destination for any traveler.

Best time to go
Visit the French Broad River in late spring, particularly May, when wildflowers bloom and the waters are perfect for kayaking and fishing. Mornings are serene, the air fragrant with honeysuckle, while fewer tourists allow for quiet reflections amid stunning landscapes.
Water Quality
The French Broad River in Tennessee exhibits a deep blue to indigo hue, with water clarity ranging from ultra-clear to slightly murky, depending on recent rainfall and seasonal changes.
Surface area (mi)
8245.59
Max depth (ft)
140.09
Elevation (ft)
814.96

Popular activities

  • Kayaking
  • Fishing
  • Boating
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Marinas on French Broad River

Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what French Broad River has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • It is generally not safe to swim in all parts of the French Broad River. While some sections, like those in Madison County, meet the EPA’s safe standard for E. coli, other areas, such as South Asheville’s Shiloh community, exceed safe bacteria levels.

  • The French Broad River is a popular destination for recreation and tourism because it offers a variety of activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, tubing, fishing, hiking, and camping. The river and its surrounding areas also provide scenic driving routes, horseback riding trails, and opportunities for picnicking and wildlife viewing.

  • The creel limit for trout in the French Broad River, Tennessee, is five trout per day from April 1 through November 30. There is no minimum length limit, but only two trout in the creel may be over 22 inches in some areas. Fishing is managed by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.

  • There are no dog-friendly beaches on the French Broad River. The river itself does not have beaches, and leashes are not allowed on the river for safety reasons. However, there are dog-friendly areas and parks along the river, such as the French Broad River Dog Park.

  • Towns near the French Broad River in Tennessee include Newport, Parrottsville, and Del Rio in Cocke County, as well as Sevierville and Kodak in Sevier County. The river also passes through Knox County before merging with the Holston River to form the Tennessee River near Knoxville. These towns are located along the river’s path as it flows through the Appalachian Mountains.