Oakdale Weekend Guide: River Bends and Small-Town Quiet

This weekend is for people who want the quiet turned all the way up. Oakdale is a small Morgan County town on the bends of the Emory River, and the whole itinerary is built on a simple idea: water, back roads, and a sky full of stars.

Day One: The River Town

Morning: Start at the Emory River. The river bends around town, and the banks are good for fishing, skipping rocks, or just sitting with coffee. Bring a rod or a kayak if you have one.

Afternoon: Drive the back roads. Hwy 62, Hwy 27, and the county roads between them are curvy and scenic, with river views that open up around every bend. This is peak Sunday-driver territory.

Evening: In fall, this is Friday-night football country. Oakdale High School games are the town's living room from late August through October. Off season, head to Harriman, about 15 minutes south, for dinner.

Day Two: Watts Bar Lake

Morning: Drive south to Watts Bar Lake, roughly 30 minutes away. Boating, fishing, and swimming when the water is warm. Launch ramps and marinas ring the lake.

Afternoon: Picnic on the shoreline or rent a pontoon for a slow cruise. The lake is wide and the coves are quiet.

Evening: Dinner back in Harriman or one of the grill spots along Roane State Highway before heading home.

Where to Stay

Oakdale has no hotels. Most visitors book a vacation rental in town or stay in Harriman, about 15 to 20 minutes south on Hwy 27, where the national chain hotels are. Oak Ridge is another 20 minutes past that.

Good to Know

Plan your meals: Dining inside Oakdale is very limited. Stock up on groceries in Harriman or Oliver Springs before settling in.

Fuel up: Fill the tank in town before heading to the lake or the trailheads.

Cell service: Spotty in the river valleys. Download maps and save your lake ramp pins ahead of time.

How far is Watts Bar Lake from Oakdale?

About 30 minutes south by car, depending on which launch ramp or marina you aim for.

Is there dining in Oakdale?

Very little. Most visitors eat in Harriman or Oliver Springs, or cook at their rental.

Can you swim in the Emory River?

People do, especially in the calmer bends near town. Check water conditions first, and stick to the slow stretches.

When is football season?

High school football runs late August through October. Games are Friday nights.