TOP 5 PLACES TO COOL OFF IN THE SUMMER HEAT

Beat the heat this summer with these fun ways to cool off in Anderson County! Check out our list of the Top places to cool down that won't break the bank.

Anderson County Park, located on Norris Lake, is a great place to enjoy a day of sun and cool off in the refreshing water of Norris Lake. The park is open to the public and has a great swimming area to offer visitors. In addition, there is a playground and several areas to enjoy a picnic lunch. If you’re interested in making it an overnight camping trip, be sure to make your reservations on line.

Splash pads are the perfect place to take the little ones to cool off and enjoy an afternoon of fun. They can spend hours splashing around and beating the summer heat. Lakefront Park Splash Pad, located in Clinton is open daily from 10 am to 8 pm. While you’re in Clinton, we highly recommend stopping by the soda fountain at Hoskins Drugstore in Downtown Clinton for a delicious milkshake or Apple Blossom Cafe for a delicious lunch! Rocky Top Splash Pad, located in Rocky Top is another fun place to cool off from the summer sun and let the kids burn some energy! As a bonus, the splash pads are free which means both the kids and your wallet will be happy. Pack a lunch, grab the sunscreen and enjoy a splashin’ good time! Or skip the lunch packing and head over to Nanny's Kitchen for a delicious lunch while you're in Rocky Top.

The Norris Watershed offers a canopy of shade with acres of wooded trails and miles of creeks that provide a refreshing treat on a hot summer day. Splash around in the ankle and knee deep waterwhile searching for frogs and other water critters along the way. It’s a great way to entertain the whole family during those hot summer days. And did we mention it’s free? Be sure to check Norris Dam State Park’s program schedule for a fun class with a Park Ranger. You can learn about creek critters, frogs, snakes and more!

Hop on a paddleboard or kayak and paddle your way through the cool water of MeltonHill Lake at Adventures Outdoors in Oak Ridge or their second location, Norris Paddling located at Norris Dam Marina on Norris Lake. Both locations offer paddleboards, kayaks, and hydro-bike rentals. All are great ways to stay cool on a hot summer day.

The Oak Ridge Pool is another great place to beat the heat. The pool is spring water fed and considered to be one of the largest in the nation. There are 25 and 100 meter courses, an off-shore island, mommy/baby room, float rentals and a large grassed beach area to relax. Tip: seating is limited, so you may want to bring your own pool chair.

For other fun things to do in Anderson County, visit our website at www.adventureanderson.com.