Shook Branch Beach

Area Status: Open

Shook Branch Recreation Area is located on the southern shore of Watauga Lake in Carter County. This 20-acre site includes a large, grassy area for picnicking, picnic tables with grills, and a designated swimming area in the lake. Some shade is provided by large trees that border grassy areas. The Appalachian Trail (#1) passes through Shook Branch Recreation Area.

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	Shook Branch Swim Area is open for the 2024 season. Other picnic areas nearby include Watauga Point and The Laurels. Other swim areas include Jacobs Creek Day Use Area.
Operational Hours:	Shook Branch Swim Area is open for the 2024 season. Other picnic areas nearby include Watauga Point and The Laurels. Other swim areas include Jacobs Creek Day Use Area.
Area Amenities:	Fee charged for some activities, Picnic tables, Toilets, Drinking water, Parking
Fees:	Fee is $2 per vehicle, per day, or a Cherokee National Forest Pass for $30 per year. Contact the Watauga Ranger District for more information at 423-735-1500. The day-use permit can also be purchased online. See info below in Passes.
Open Season:	5/13/2024 - 9/9/2024
Restrictions:	Shook Branch is for Day-use only, from sunrise to sunset. No overnight camping. Alcohol is prohibited. No burning plastic or other non-wood products except charcoal in the grills. Pets must be on a maximum 6 ft. leash at all times, and pick up after them. For safety and sanitary reasons, pets are not allowed on the beach and not allowed within the designated swimming area. Food storage restrictions apply at all areas on the Cherokee National Forest. All food and beverages must be stored in an approved bear-proof container or your locked vehicle at all times unless being eaten, prepared, or transported. It is your responsibility to read, know, understand, and follow all specific rules and regulations which are also posted at the day-use area.
Closest Towns:	Elizabethton, TN and Hampton, TN
Water:	Drinking Water
Restroom:	Flush Toilets
Passes:	To purchase your Day-Use pass for this location online, click below.
Operated By:	US Forest Service

General Information

Directions: From Elizabethton, take US 19E/321 south for five miles to Hampton. Turn left onto US 321/TN 67 for three miles, then turn left into Shook Branch.