Fort Patrick Henry Reservoir

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Fort Patrick Henry Reservoir: Description

Fort Patrick Henry Reservoir is an impoundment of the South Fork Holston River near Kingsport, TN. Extending ten miles upstream from Fort Patrick Henry Dam to Boone Dam, the reservoir has become a popular fishing destination.

Owned and operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority, construction on Fort Patrick Henry Dam began in 1951 and was completed in 1953. Built primarily for hydroelectric power, the dam also ensures that there is enough cooling water for TVA's John Sevier Fossil Fuel Plant, a coal burning electric generating plant. All the water that moves through Fort Patrick Henry Reservoir comes through Watauga, South Holston, and Boone Reservoir as well making Fort Patrick Henry Reservoir a fast moving narrow reservoir. It has maintained most of its riverine characteristics, and its shore is rimmed with steep bluffs and just a few coves.

Fishing on the reservoir is exceptional. There are healthy populations of large mouth, small mouth, and rock bass along with blue gill and crappie. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency stocks Fort Patrick Henry Reservoir with rainbow trout, and anglers are sure to find plenty of fish to challenge them. Stripers aren't stocked in Fort Patrick Henry Reservoir, but several of the ones stocked upstream in Boone Reservoir drift downstream to Fort Patrick Henry Reservoir and grow exceptionally large in its cool clear waters.

Warrior's Path State Park on the shores of Fort Patrick Henry Reservoir is a 950 acre state park with plenty of outdoor activities. The park, established in 1952 is named after the nearby ancient warpath used by the Cherokee. The park has a full service marina and several public boat ramps available free of charge for anglers, pleasure boaters and water skiers. There are biking and hiking trails through the Eastern Tennessee forest and wetlands and around Duck Island. There is also a stable with trail horses to rent and plenty of trails to ride them on. The park also boasts one of the best disc golf courses in the state. There is camping in the park both for RV's and tents with full modern services including a bathhouse with hot showers and an Olympic sized swimming pool.

Fort Patrick Henry Reservoir is named after the Revolutionary War era fort situated near Long Island at present day Kingsport. The fort, named for four time Virginia Governor Patrick Henry, was instrumental in several battles against the Cherokee. It housed the men from Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia that eventually defeated the Cherokee leading to the Avery Treaty, signed in 1777 on the Long Island of the Holston River.

The area's rich history only enhances what is sure to be a peaceful relaxing outdoor getaway. With its plentiful fish, beautiful water and scenery, and popular state park, Fort Patrick Henry Reservoir is sure to please the entire family.