Tennessee Valley Authority
Douglas Reservoir
Douglas Dam is on the French Broad River in east Tennessee. The reservoir extends 43 miles upriver from the dam through the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Set against the backdrop of the Smoky Mountain foothills, Douglas Reservoir is a popular recreation destination, known for picnicking, camping, boating, and fishing.
Douglas and other TVA dams built during World War II made a historic contribution by providing hydropower to drive the war effort. The reservoir remains an integral unit in the overall water control system in the Tennessee Valley.
Birdwatchers enjoy the fall migration of shore birds, wading birds, and other waterfowl that flock to Douglas from late July to early October. The birds rest and feed on the muddy shoreline and in areas of shallow water exposed as the level of the reservoir is lowered to winter flood control levels.