Sitting next to the quiet and calm waters on a lakeside shore has to be one of the most peaceful places in the whole world to be. The simple rhythm of the water gently lapping the shore, the sun sparkling off the ripples, and the stillness and tranquility found beside the water are some of my favorite things. The quiet and small town of Hampton, Tennessee, might not seem all that special at first glance, but upon further review, you'll see this is actually one of the prettiest towns in our state. Not only does it have access to Lake Watauga, but there's a treasure trove of hidden gems within this Tennessee town.
Simply put, the best part about Hampton is one of the most obvious: Lake Watauga.
There are a lot of beautiful lakes around our country, but with the Cherokee Mountains in the background, this lake is perfectly framed. It provides a stunning lush green backdrop to an already beautiful body of water. You take a boat out and enjoy the whole lake or simply park along the water’s edge, bring a lunch, and have a picnic. There is even a beach area to enjoy some sunbathing and swimming in the cool water. Check out this video from Adventuring in the Moment to see the lake and a trail leading to a hidden beach.
As previously stated, one of the best ways to experience Hampton is to lace up your hiking shoes and take off into the woods.
One of the best trails in the area leads to Laurel Falls. This gorgeous waterfall is well worth the trip alone. The trail is almost as fun as the end destination. We hiked this trail with some friends and it was one of the highlights of the year. There are plenty of other trails that connect within the woods and one of them is the ever-popular Appalachian Trail. Here's a video from our experience at this lovely waterfall:
Another hidden gem is located within a campground in the mountains.
Doe River Gorge is a great place for kids to get away for summer camp, retreats, and other events throughout the year, but something else drew us in. The camp is located along a historic railroad that blasted its way through the mountains and you can hike through the tunnels and along the train tracks into the mountains. This trail is such a unique adventure you can take right in Hampton. To learn more about how to take advantage of this trail check out our Adventuring in the Moment video of when we hiked it.
All this hiking can really work up an appetite and fortunately, you don’t need to travel very far to find some of the best food in Tennessee!
Amber's Country Cooking is located just down the road from the lake and they are always serving up delicious Tennessee classics to enjoy, from fried catfish to delicious breakfast dishes.
If you can’t pull yourself away from this lakeshore town, we can’t blame you.
There were many times we have been as a family where we never wanted to leave. This lakeside dream doesn’t have to end because you can camp right along the water at Cardens Bluff Campground. Many of the sights are located right along the water and the rates are incredibly reasonable.
We have spent many evenings finishing off the day by heading to the lake to watch the sunset.
Taking a blanket and laying on the shore while anticipating the changing skies is a great way to end the day. The sunsets behind the mountains are always dynamic and light the heavens up with the most brilliant hues of pink, orange, and yellow. Every time we watch the last fading sliver of daylight disappear over the mountains it reminds me of how incredible this town really is.
Hampton, Tennessee, is certainly a special little town within the mountains and on the shores of one of the best lakes in the state. Digging into this Eastern Tennessee gem can be a blast and well worth the trip. I highly encourage you to explore this nature lover paradise. Have you ever been to Hampton?
The town next door, Butler, Tennessee, has much in common with Hampton and has a fascinating history involving Lake Watauga. Learn more about “The town that wouldn’t drown”.
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