(865) 426-2838 Mon – Fri, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
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(865) 426-2838 Mon – Fri, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM 195 South Main Street, Rocky Top, TN 37769
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Welcome to Rocky Top, Tennessee

A Proud Past. A Bright Future.

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  • 72KAcres of Trails
  • 800Miles of Shoreline
  • 30 minFrom Knoxville
  • 135+Years of History

Thank you for visiting the City of Rocky Top's official website. Whether you are a resident, business owner, or visitor, we appreciate your interest in our community. This site is designed to provide clear, accurate, and accessible information about City services, programs, and operations.

Our goal is to maintain a user-friendly platform with current information and convenient online services, including the ability to view and pay utility bills electronically.

The City of Rocky Top operates under a council–manager form of government and provides a full range of municipal services, including:

  • Police and Fire Protection
  • Public Works
  • Parks and Recreation
  • Planning and Code Enforcement
  • Water and Sewer Utilities

For additional information or assistance, please contact City Hall at (865) 426-2838.

Thanks again for stopping by—we're proud to serve you!

Our Heritage

A Proud Past, A Bright Future

From rebellion to revitalization, Rocky Top's story is one of resilience, courage, and community spirit.

  1. Early 1800s

    Coal Creek is Born

    Founded after the 1798 Treaty of Tellico. Welsh miners arrive in , establishing a thriving coal mining community.

  2. 1891–1892

    The Coal Creek War

    Miners fought the convict lease system. On Halloween 1891, hundreds of masked miners freed 300 convicts and burned stockades. Tennessee became the first Southern state to end convict leasing in 1893.

  3. 1902 & 1911

    Mining Tragedies & Reform

    The Fraterville Mine Disaster killed 216 men and boys, while Cross Mountain claimed 84 lives. These tragedies led to nationwide mining safety reforms.

  4. Lake City Era

    The town becomes Lake City after the TVA completes Norris Dam, creating opportunities for tourism and recreation.

  5. Rocky Top Renaissance

    Embracing the famous Tennessee song, the town becomes Rocky Top, launching revitalization focused on tourism and outdoor recreation.

  6. Today

    Growing & Thriving

    New businesses open regularly, outdoor enthusiasts visit from around the world, and the community spirit lives on stronger than ever.

Outdoor Recreation

Adventure Awaits

From world-class ATV trails to pristine fishing waters, Rocky Top is an outdoor paradise.

  • Windrock Park

    The largest privately-owned off-road recreation area in America! Over 72,000 acres with 300+ miles of trails. Rocky Top is the ONLY place in Tennessee where ATVs can legally ride on highways.

  • World-Class Fishing

    Cove Lake offers 210 acres of prime fishing. Norris Lake features 800 miles of pristine shoreline and 22+ marinas.

  • Cove Lake State Park

    Mountain valley setting with 106 campsites, nature trails, paved bike paths, and Rickards Ridge BBQ on site!

  • Norris Lake

    One of the cleanest lakes in North America with 34,000 acres. Perfect for boating, skiing, kayaking, and swimming.

  • Hiking & Nature

    Explore 11 miles of Cumberland Trail. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is only 30 minutes away.

  • Gateway Location

    Perfect I-75 access, 24 miles to Knoxville. Your ideal basecamp for East Tennessee adventures!

  • Dollywood Theme Park

    World-class entertainment just 30 minutes away! Thrilling rides, award-winning shows, authentic Appalachian crafts, and Southern hospitality at Dolly Parton's legendary theme park in Pigeon Forge.

Local Economy

Downtown & Local Businesses

Rocky Top's economy blends outdoor recreation, manufacturing, retail, and hospitality to serve both residents and thousands of annual visitors.

  • Manufacturing & Industry

    • Advanced manufacturing facilities
    • Distribution centers
    • Industrial suppliers
    • Automotive parts manufacturing

  • Outdoor Recreation

    • ATV/UTV rental companies
    • Off-road equipment sales
    • Adventure tour operators
    • Gear shops & outfitters

  • Dining & Hospitality

    • Local restaurants & BBQ
    • Family diners
    • Coffee shops
    • Food trucks & catering

  • Lodging

    • Hotels & motels
    • Vacation cabin rentals
    • RV parks & campgrounds
    • Lakefront accommodations

  • Retail & Services

    • Convenience stores
    • Auto repair shops
    • Gas stations
    • Hardware stores

  • Professional Services

    • Real estate agencies
    • Financial services
    • Healthcare providers
    • Legal services

Rocky Top is on the rise! Downtown is experiencing genuine revitalization with new businesses, improved infrastructure, and a growing community. Come be part of our story.

Community

Events & Celebrations

Rocky Top comes alive with community events, festivals, and celebrations throughout the year.

  • Christmas Parade

    Annual tradition bringing the community together each December with floats, music, and holiday cheer.

  • Coal Miners Reunion

    Honoring hardworking miners with guided historical tours, live music, and community gatherings.

  • Windrock Events

    Year-round off-road events and races including the famous Spring Shindig bringing riders nationwide.

  • Museum Tours

    Guided tours of Coal Creek Miners Museum and historical sites including Militia Hill and Fraterville Miners' Circle.

  • Fishing Tournaments

    Competitive fishing events on Norris Lake and Cove Lake throughout the year, drawing anglers from near and far.

  • Live Music

    Local venues feature live music on weekends, including performances at Rickards Ridge BBQ and community gatherings.

Get Connected

Contact & Resources

Have questions? Want to learn more? We're here to help connect you with the right people and resources.

City Hall
195 South Main Street, Rocky Top, TN 37769
(865) 426-2838
Mon – Fri, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Chamber of Commerce
(865) 426-9595
Coal Creek Miners Museum
201 South Main Street, Rocky Top, TN 37769
(865) 630-5006

Visit Rocky Top

24 miles north of Knoxville on I-75