Friendship Marina

Friendship Marina is a full-service boat access point located on South Holston Lake near Bristol in Sullivan County. This is the only marina on the eastern side of the lake and sits within the scenic Cherokee National Forest, offering paddlers and boaters access to protected deep-water coves that provide good shelter from wind and heavy boat traffic. The facility includes fuel service, a general store, restrooms, covered and uncovered slip rentals, and a boat dealership on-site.

For kayakers and canoeists, this location offers convenient access to South Holston Lake's undeveloped shorelines and scenic mountain views. The protected cove positioning makes it a good launching point for paddlers seeking calmer water conditions. The marina's central location between Mountain City and Bristol places it roughly midway along the lake, offering access to both upper and lower sections of the reservoir.

The site also provides pump-out facilities for boaters. While primarily a marina with rental and service amenities, it serves as a practical access point for various watercraft. Nearby camping options include Jacobs Creek Campground and Little Oak Campground, both within 10 miles and offering reservable sites for those planning extended visits to the area.

Rugged mountain solitude can be experienced throughout this area. Long distance backpacking, trout fishing and the shortest tunnel in the world are a few features you can find here.The Osborne Farm offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains from the Appalachian National Scenic Trail (A.T.). From there, take a multi-day backpack trip along the A.T. and Iron Mountain Trail.  Try your...

Rugged mountain solitude can be experienced throughout this area. Long distance backpacking, trout fishing and the shortest tunnel in the world are a few features you can find here.The Osborne Farm offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains from the Appalachian National Scenic Trail (A.T.). From there, take a multi-day backpack trip along the A.T. and Iron Mountain Trail.  Try your hand at trout fishing in Beaverdam and Laurel Creeks.  Camp at Backbone Rock Recreation Area and explore what is known locally as the shortest tunnel in the world.Iron Mountains MapIron Mountains Guide

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