Norris Dam State Park installs kayak launch at Oak Grove

Norris Dam State Park has installed a free kayak/ canoe launch on Norris Lake at the Oak Grove Boat Ramp in Campbell County.

A ribbon-cutting was held this week for the new floating dock and kayak launch.

The state park team took over management of the TVA access ramp over the last year.

“This launch greatly improves accessibility for paddlers and will be a major asset to our area,” the park team posted on social media. “In addition, TVA has repaved and repainted the parking area, TDEC has installed an automatic gate, and we have been slowly working on managing the vegetation as well as removing trailer loads of trash.

“We are so excited to get this area cleaned up and make it safer and more accessible to Campbell County residents and other visitors alike.

“Now that it’s open, come use it! The free launch is open daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. We can’t wait to see you there.”

Norris Dam State Park is managed from a headquarters at 125 Village Green Circle in Rocky Top, Tennessee (formerly Lake City). Phone 1-865-425-4500. Park office hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The park manager is Nathaniel Housley.

Concept plan for Karns launch

Karns launch on Beaver Creek ahead

“Super excited to share that construction has officially started on Karns Landing, the newest access point on Beaver Creek. This creekside park and BoardSafe kayak launch will be located at 8051 Oak Ridge Hwy. at the Tennessee Rugby Park, directly across the road from the Knox County Sportspark.” The announcement came April 10, 2026, from Charlie Austin, president of the Beaver Creek Kayak Club.

“Huge thanks to Knox County government and the Legacy Parks Foundation for your continued support of a Clear, Clean, Cared for … and Connected Beaver Creek.”

The Beaver gets a song

Meanwhile, Seth Merrill has written a song about “Floating Down Beaver Creek” and posted two lines on Facebook here. Take a listen and give Seth some encouragement. Maybe he will come and sing at the next Flotilla.

West Hills plans All-American potluck picnic

Kids and their grownups cool off under the spray at previous year’s picnic.

West Hills neighbors are invited this Saturday, June 20, 2026, to West Hills Park gazebo (Winston Road park entrance). Festivities start at 4:45 p.m. with food served at 5 p.m. The West Hills Community Association will provide Dead End BBQ, Chick-fil-A sandwiches and nuggets, and all-beef hot dogs – plus water, lemonade and iced tea. Neighbors should bring their favorite side or dessert.

During dinner, there will be live music, kids activities, and a spraying water fountain from West Hills Fire Station 20. Also, the Knoxville Police Department’s mounted police and bicycled officer will escort the parade. Plus, free American flags for all parade participants.

At 7 p.m. the parade will start – round trip on the greenway from West Hills Park Gazebo to the old AMC Theatre parking lot. Participants can walk, jog or bike. Also, folks can ride trikes, wagons, strollers, walkers, etc. with USA colors. Have fun – be creative.

The weather forecast looks great – 83 degrees and clear skies – but if rain or unsafe weather conditions exist the day of the event, it will be canceled. Check the WH Community Association digital outlets or your email for cancellation notice.

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