Paint Rock Refuge

Directions and Description

Directions to lake access: From US 70 in Kingston, take Hwy 58 south 3.6 miles to River Road (Hwy 304), turn right, and follow River Road along the eastern shore. Also, from Rockwood, take US 27/ Hwy 29 south to Spring City for access to the western shore. Lat: 35.78624°N Long: -84.48919°WHours: daylight hours Boat Ramp access is on the west side of the river.  

The WMA is open year-round during daylight hours, note hunting seasons.   License fees may apply.  

TWRA Contact Information: Region 3 Office: 1-931-484-9571, Toll-Free: 1-833-402-4698, E-mail the office, TWRA Area Manager: Rob Klippel 1-423-693-6791

Forest, shrub edges, and fields are found on this Roane County Tennessee WMA, adjacent to Watts Bar Lake. In spring and summer, Osprey are common nesting birds across the lake. They nest on poles and structures and can be viewed best by boat; however please keep a safe distance from nesting pairs to avoid disturbing them and their young. In winter, waterfowl and Bald Eagles are common. Great Blue Heron, Black-crowned Night-heron, and Great Egret nest on islands in the lake. White-tailed deer, raccoon, muskrat, fox, and coyote are common around the lake. 

Regulations & Dates

Big Game and Small Game - same as statewide seasons, except as noted.

Deer - Archery equipment only. Archers must comply with legal blaze orange requirements during muzzleloader and gun seasons.

Small Game - Shotguns only

Quail - Nov. 2, 2024 - Jan. 15, 2025.

Dog Training - Sept. 1, 2024 - March 15, 2025.