Welcome to Tailwaters Lodge, your premier destination for cabins on the South Holston River, located in beautiful Bristol, Tennessee. Set on over 500 feet of private river frontage, our lodge offers unmatched access to world-class fly fishing, breathtaking mountain views, and the peaceful charm of East Tennessee.
If you're searching for cabins along the South Holston for a quiet escape or a weekend of adventure with friends, Tailwaters Lodge offers a refined, nature-focused retreat in one of the region’s most beautiful settings.
Owners Bruce and Paula Cote discovered this special stretch of river while thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail. During their 2,184-mile journey, they unknowingly passed by the very land that would one day become Tailwaters Lodge. Years later, drawn back by the beauty of the South Holston River and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, they returned—not just to visit, but to stay.
Inspired by their journey, the lodge was created as a place where guests could experience that same sense of discovery, peace, and connection to the outdoors.
Our riverfront property features six thoughtfully appointed cabins: Hatch, Midge, Pheasant Tail, Bufflehead, Osprey, and Woodpecker. Each cabin offers:
The beautiful sights and sounds of the Appalachian Mountains
Comfortable, modern-rustic interiors with space to unwind
Private porches just steps from the water
Easy access to fishing, hiking, and relaxing in nature
Visit our accommodations tab at the top to learn about each cabin.
Bruce grew up in New Hampshire and have been saying that Tennessee feels like a kinder, gentler New Hampshire - similar mountains, rivers, lakes and foliage, yet less snow and less cold! Paula grew up in upstate New York (Albany area) and spent much of her childhood in the Adirondack Mountains, so we both feel at home in the high-country. We were married in 1985 and have two children - Jessica, who is now in heaven, and our son Joshua, who lives in Boston, MA. We believe that this new venture allows us to use our talents, skills, gifts, and experiences for God's glory. We look forward to your stay with us and we feel confident that you'll be blessed during your time here.