Harrison Bay State Park SUP

Great paddling is accessible from at least five different launching points in and around Harrison Bay State Park. John Patten Island and the surrounding smaller islands were created in 1940 when TVA completed Chickamauga Dam, flooding a good portion of the town of Harrison, Tennessee. Particularly during low water in the winter, modern day paddlers can see old building foundations, roads, and guardrails that have been trapped in time under the water. On Patten Island itself, one can find more evidence of the old town, as well as the Bell cemetery.   Those willing to brave this rather eerie history can find free, primitive camping on the Island on a first-come, first-served basis. Tent and RV camping is available at Harrison Bay State Park, so don't worry about being relegated to sleeping on the cemetery island if you are, indeed, faint of heart! While there is much to see and explore in this area any time of the year, I personally enjoy paddling here during the winter months, when the water is low and solitude is a guarantee. During these times, I find it's easy to get lost in my imagination as I paddle along, peering into the depths at the submerged remnants of an old town.