Map location of South Holston Dam

South Holston Dam

South Holston Dam is a shore-access freshwater reservoir dive.

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Freshwater shore dive in a reservoir setting with forested shoreline, simple access, and conditions that shift with water-level changes.

About South Holston Dam

South Holston Dam is a shore-access freshwater reservoir dive in the Cherokee National Forest, with a forested shoreline and a broad lake feel. It suits divers who want a simple shoreline entry, deeper water away from shore, and a fishy freshwater profile instead of reef structure. Plan around seasonal water-level swings, which can change shoreline access and nearshore comfort even when the lake looks calm.

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Research Estimate At South Holston Dam

Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.

VisibilityVisibility: 5.5m
AccessModerate entry effort
Aquatic LifeGreat variety
FacilitiesBasic facilities

Where Is South Holston Dam?

Map location of South Holston Dam
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Community sourced coordinates.

South Holston Dam Planning Details

Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.

Reported Depth

30m - 40m

Depth Note

Maximum depth reported as 121–130 ft (30–40 m).

Best Season

Late spring through summer.

Typical Conditions

Average visibility is about 5-6 m, and winter drawdowns can drop lake levels enough to change shore access.

Safety & Access At South Holston Dam

Hazards, restrictions, and access requirements.

Key Hazards

Low visibility

Safety Notes

Seasonal drawdowns can significantly lower water levels and change shoreline access and conditions.

Access Restrictions

Shore entry depends on water level and access point conditions.

Legal Notes

Use caution near the dam and follow release warnings and posted safety rules.

Local Intel For South Holston Dam

Community notes to help plan your visit.

Scuba Diving

Freshwater scuba diving with depths reported up to about 30–40 m.

Freediving

Not a strong freedive option because the site is deep and average visibility is modest.

Snorkeling

Not a dedicated snorkel site.

South Holston Dam Dive Conditions Planner

Use the planner to scan this week, inspect today in local time, and understand how exposure shapes conditions at South Holston Dam.

Current Snapshot
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Great
Sea State
Swell No data Β· Period unavailable
Great
Visibility Outlook
Rain chance No data
Great
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Swell
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Exposure Profile at South Holston Dam

Directional shelter context for incoming swell.

Exposure Note

Hourly forecast data is not available yet.

Recent Logged Visits At South Holston Dam

Community dive logs and visit reports for this site.

No Dive Logs Yet

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Dive Spot Log Averages At South Holston Dam

Average conditions based on logged dives & visits.

Conditions
Avg. Visibility5.5m
Activity
No dive activity logged yet.
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South Holston Dam Guide - Frequently Asked Questions

Planning answers for access, conditions, timing, and site logistics.

South Holston Dam Guide - Sources and Updates

Last Updated

Research Sources

tva.com Β· Official

Official TVA reservoir facts and shoreline context.

Published May 1, 2024

Regional tourism page describing South Holston Lake amenities and scuba diving.

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