Frequently Asked Questions - Norris Lake
How do I get to the Lake?
From Norris: Powell Valley Resort is about 33 miles away from Norris. Take US-441 (in Norris) toward Alley Road. Turn right on Bethel Road, and then take another right on TN-61. One more right, and you'll merge onto I-75 N, which you'll drive for about 12 miles. Take exit 134 and merge onto TN-63 E/US-25 W N/Veterans Memorial Hwy toward La Follette/Jacksboro. You'll be on TN-63 E after the merge - drive this road for 17 miles. Turn right at Doaks Creek Rd, then take a left at Old Middlesboro Highway. Take a right at Rogers Dock road and find the marina at 600 Powell Valley Marine Rd., La Follette, TN.
From Knoxville: Powell Valley Resort is about 50 miles from Knoxville. Take Henley Street toward W Cumberland Ave SW, and then take the I-40 E ramp toward Asheville. You'll reach a fork - continue left, following the signs for Lexington/I-275 N and merge onto I-275 N, which will become I-75 N. You'll drive I-75 N for 26 miles. Take exit 134 and merge onto TN-63 E/US-25 W N/Veterans Memorial Hwy toward La Follette/Jacksboro. You'll be on TN-63 E after the merge - drive this road for 17 miles. Turn right at Doaks Creek Rd, and then take a left at Old Middlesboro Highway. Take a right at Rogers Dock road and find the marina at 600 Powell Valley Marine Rd., La Follette, TN.
Click here to see a map and directions for Norris Lake.
When do I pick up the boat?
The houseboats at Norris Lake can be picked up between 2 and 5 PM and are due back by 11 AM.
How many people are allowed on the boat?
Maximum capacity on the Admiral is 10 people. The maximum capacity on the Elite is 14 people, and on the Atlantis it is 18 people.
What will the temperatures be like on my trip?
The lake is warm from mid-summer through late fall and pleasantly cool in the shoulder seasons. Winter and early to mid-spring water temperatures are too cold for extended swimming without a wetsuit. View a month-by-month list of temperatures here.
How difficult is driving a houseboat?
Driving a houseboat is different than driving a car, but is not that difficult. The marina staff will walk you through driving the boat when you pick it up. Most people get the hand of maneuvering the boat within a few minutes.
If you’re concerned about your ability to handle the boat, you may arrange for a captain to guide you out of the marina or drive you to a specific destination on the lake.
What is the billing schedule?
A $500 damage deposit via credit card is due at the time of booking; the full rental amount is due by cashiers check, travelers check or cash upon arrival.
How do I check availability or reserve a houseboat?
Give us a call at 888-454-8825, and one of our reservation agents will be happy to check availability for you. It’s helpful if you already have an idea of when you want to go and what boat you’re most interested in when you call.
Alternatively, you can contact us online with your availability request, and one of our agents will be happy to get back to you with the information you need.
How early do I need to reserve?
Norris Lake is a very popular. Some of our boats have been known to book out more than two years in advance. The earlier the better is a good rule to follow, particularly if you have an exact date in mind for your trip, or if you’re planning a trip over a holiday weekend.
However, if you’re flexible with your dates or the exact houseboat model, we can almost always find a trip for you even a few weeks before hand.
Are linens included with my houseboat rental?
Yes, linens are provided on all boats. However you will need to bring your own bath and beach towels.
Are pets allowed on my houseboat?
The marina cannot allow pets of any kind. You will need to find alternative accommodations for your pets.
Where is the nearest grocery store so I can stock up before my trip?
There is a grocery store just 10 minutes from the marina. The Food Lion is located nearby on highway 63.
How old do you have to be to rent the houseboats?
All renters must be 20 with a valid drivers license.
Do I need a license to operate the houseboats, or is a skipper provided?
There is no special license needed to operate our houseboats. There are rules for operating houseboats on the waterways, and we will explain them to you upon your arrival.
Will I get seasick on a houseboat?
Houseboats are on pontoons and there is very little motion. Seasickness is basically unheard of on fresh water.
What is the best time of year to go houseboating?
It is always a good time to go houseboating! Summer is the most popular and busiest season. Fall offers Indian Summer days and cooler nights. Springtime is good for viewing abundant wildflowers, waterfalls, and wildlife. Winter is favorable for the anglers, when fishing is at its best. And the rates are significantly lower between September and May.
Can I fish from the houseboat?
Yes! Fishing is a very popular activity on the lake. The most popular fish in Lake Norris are three species of black bass - largemouth, smallmouth and spotted (Kentucky) bass. Striped bass are also sought after, as are crappie and walleye. Fishing is especially good from November to April, when water temperatures are cooler. The marina stores sell a good variety of bait and tackle for optimizing your chances of catching fish, whether you’re a novice or an expert.
