CHEROKEE LAKE: A Staple for Grainger County. COURTESY OF GRAINGER COUNTY JOURNAL, May 22, 2025.
Felix Valdes, owner of Cherokee Lake Realty, presents a $1,000 Scholarship to Michael B. Denton of Grainger High School for writing the winning essay on “How Cherokee Lake has changed the Grainger County area, for better or worse.”
Denton’s essay appears below.
Cherokee Lake, with its shimmering waters and breathtaking scenery, has been more than a local `destination for Grainger County—it has been a catalyst for transformation.
Formed in the 1940s by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) to generate hydroelectric power and manage flood control, Cherokee Lake has since evolved into a dynCherokee Lake, with its shimmering waters and breathtaking scenery, has been more than a local destination for Grainger County—it has been a catalyst for transformation.
Formed in the 1940s by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) to generate hydroelectric power and manage flood control, Cherokee Lake has since evolved into a dynamic engine for economic development, tourism, recreation, and environmental education. While no large-scale project comes without drawbacks, the benefits Cherokee Lake has brought to Grainger County far outweigh the challenges. Cherokee Lake has given the Grainger County area a boost in economic development, a valuable recreational outlet for residents, and a beautiful community connection.
Cherokee Lake has significantly boosted Grainger County’s economy, especially in the tourism and service industries. According to the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, lakeside tourism contributes millions of dollars annually to local economies across the state[1]. For Grainger County, this has translated into job creation in sectors like hospitality, real estate, and retail. From family-owned marinas and bait shops to new housing developments with lakefront views, the lake has breathed economic life into an area once dependent primarily on agriculture and small-scale manufacturing. Furthermore, property values near the lake have steadily increased. Cherokee Lake Realty and other agencies report a strong market for lake-adjacent properties, attracting both retirees and seasonal visitors. This growth not only benefits property owners, but also contributes to county revenue through property taxes, which can then be reinvested in public services such as schools and infrastructure.
Cherokee Lake offers more than economic promise—it provides a valuable recreational outlet for residents. Fishing tournaments, boating, kayaking, camping, and lakeside picnics enrich the quality of life for local families. Cherokee Park, one of several TVA-managed areas, has become a popular community hub. These outdoor activities promote physical and mental well-being, encourage youth engagement, and foster a deeper connection between the community and the natural environment. In schools, the lake has even become an educational resource. Local science classes and environmental groups use it for water quality testing and ecological studies, turning Cherokee Lake into a living classroom.
Beyond economic gains and recreational perks, Cherokee Lake has also become a symbol of community identity and pride for the people of Grainger County. Events like lake festivals, fishing tournaments, and Fourth of July fireworks over the water have become cherished traditions that unite residents across generations. These shared experiences help strengthen community bonds and create a sense of belonging rooted in place and heritage. When a natural resource becomes part of a community’s story, people are more likely to protect and preserve it. This in turn adds to contributions toward the Grainger County area. In this way, Cherokee Lake doesn’t just serve Grainger County—it defines it.
Cherokee Lake has been a powerful force for good in Grainger County. It has boosted the local economy, created recreational and educational opportunities, fostered a strong sense of community pride, and become a symbol of natural beauty and cultural identity. From supporting local businesses to inspiring art and traditions, the lake has enhanced nearly every aspect of life in the area. As a treasured part of Grainger County’s past, present, and future, Cherokee Lake continues to bring people together and serve as a shining example of how a community can thrive around its natural resources.
