Union County: Water, Forests and History

Union County in Tennessee brings together waterscapes, forest areas and regional culture. Big Ridge State Park is located on the Clinch River and Norris Lake Reservoir; the Maynardville/Norris Lake region is 15 miles north of Knoxville. A visit can include activities on the water, trails in the forest, historic sites, a winery and events in Maynardville.

Water, Trails and Nature

Activities at Big Ridge State Park include birdwatching, fishing, kayaking and boating. The Old Mill Trail runs along Big Ridge Lake to Norton Gristmill, connecting the lake with a specific destination in the park. Norris Reservoir was created when Norris Dam was completed in 1936. Water sports on Norris Lake include waterski boats, houseboats and personal watercraft, as well as canoeing and kayaking.

The lake also offers anglers plenty to explore: More than 56 fish species live in Norris Lake, including a walleye fishery considered one of the better ones in the region. If you would rather plan a day around a variety of nature activities, Big Ridge State Park offers the birdwatching and fishing opportunities mentioned above, as well as time on the water.

Forest Areas and Designated Trails

Chuck Swan State Forest is located in Union and Campbell counties and is bordered by Norris Lake on three sides. Opportunities there include hunting, fishing, horseback riding and mountain biking. The use map, updated in May 2026, identifies roads and trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding or motorized use; others are reserved exclusively for authorized vehicles. When planning an activity, follow the designation for the road or trail in question.

The permitted uses show that the forest offers a range of ways to spend time there, from hiking and biking to motorized activities. At the same time, the designations are important for planning: not every road or trail is designated for the same use.

Historic Sites and Regional Culture

Historic Oak Grove School is located in Sharps Chapel. The WPA project was built in the Rosenwald style and restored by volunteers from Preservation Union County. The school is one of the few publicly operated schools of its kind to remain in nearly original condition. It brings together a specific architectural history and the preservation of a historic school building.

The Union County Heritage Festival celebrates Appalachian heritage in Maynardville each year. Participants of all ages can compete in the Heritage Olympics. The Union County Museum and Genealogical Library offers another look at local history: It displays memorabilia related to the music of Union County musicians, houses artifacts from the American Civil War and provides genealogical information. The Roy Acuff Union Museum & Library is also one of three points of interest on the Tennessee Civil War Trail in the Maynardville/Norris Lake region.

Wine, Market and More Places to Visit

The Winery at Seven Springs Farm is located in the rolling hills of Union County. The farm includes vineyards, vegetable gardens, greenhouses and grazing Black Angus cattle. Visitors can taste eight wines or put together their own wine tasting. On the White Lightning Trail, The Winery at Seven Springs Farm is a side trip along Thunder Road in Maynardville.

The Union County Farmers Market runs from May through October on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Farmers Market Pavilion in Maynardville: 115 Durham Drive. Since seasonal schedules may change, check the hours before your visit. Wilson Park has a large playground, a walking path and picnic tables. Motorsport fans can also check out Knoxville Dragstrip near Maynardville; the Union County track is affiliated with IHRA.

Discover more destinations: Sharps Chapel, Marion County, Morgan County, Greene, Haywood County, Cheatham County, Lawrence County, Giles County.

For the broader travel overview: Tennessee.