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South Holston River Lodge

Relax in cabins at South Holston River Lodge, a 4.9-star resort hotel near Cherokee National Forest with free Wi-Fi, parking, and guided fishing trips in Bristol, TN.

1509 Bullock Hollow Rd, Bristol, TN 37620, United States View on map
9.8/10
Exceptional Based on 92 recent guest reviews
Free Wi-Fi Parking Kid-friendly Smoke-free
What recent guests emphasize

Exceptional fishing lodge experience with attentive service

Guests commonly highlight the high-quality guided fishing trips, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and inclusive meals, making this riverside lodge a top choice for fishing enthusiasts seeking a relaxed, immersive getaway.

Guests often praise

  • Outstanding fishing guides who are patient, experienced, and provide helpful instruction.
  • Welcoming and attentive staff that create a personalized and valued guest experience.
  • Delicious, inclusive meals that complement the all-inclusive stay.
  • Comfortable and cozy cabins situated on a pristine stretch of river.
  • Well-organized trips with clear communication and attention to individual skill levels.

Worth knowing

  • The resort does not have a pool, fitness center, or onsite restaurant beyond the inclusive meals.
  • Located on the South Holston River, adjacent to Cherokee National Forest, about 10 miles from Bristol Motor Speedway.
  • Free Wi-Fi and parking are available, and the property maintains a smoke-free environment.
  • The focus is strongly on fishing and peaceful nature rather than extensive resort amenities.
  • Best suited for guests who appreciate an outdoors-centered vacation with quality service rather than luxury hotel facilities.

Best for

  • Anglers and fly fishing enthusiasts of all levels looking for guided trips and expert advice.
  • Visitors seeking a laid-back retreat immersed in nature by a scenic river location.
  • Travelers who value personalized service and an inclusive dining experience.
  • Families and groups desiring a kid-friendly, smoke-free environment close to outdoor activities.
  • Guests prioritizing a quiet, fishing-focused lodge rather than typical resort amenities.
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About this property

Welcome to South Holston River Lodge

South Holston River Lodge is a laid-back resort hotel set along the banks of the South Holston River, adjacent to the Cherokee National Forest. The property features relaxed cabins within a riverside lodge, providing a rustic and comfortable atmosphere that appeals especially to fishing enthusiasts. Guests benefit from inclusive meals and guided fishing trips, enabling a focused and convenient outdoor experience without the need for additional planning.

The lodge does not offer a pool, restaurant, or fitness center, but it provides essential services such as free Wi-Fi, parking, and a smoke-free environment. It is also kid-friendly, making it suitable for families interested in nature-focused activities rather than on-site amenities. The check-in time is 3 PM, facilitating afternoon arrivals.

Guests have praised the attentive and knowledgeable staff, noting the exceptional fishing guides who cater to both novice and experienced anglers. Meals are frequently described as satisfying, complementing the all-inclusive fishing trips. The atmosphere is welcoming and comfortable, based on feedback highlighting personalized service and a sense of being valued beyond standard hospitality.

Located roughly 10 miles from the Bristol Motor Speedway, South Holston River Lodge serves as a quiet retreat for visitors seeking outdoor recreation rather than urban attractions. Nearby lodging options vary, with some campgrounds and inns within five miles, though none match the lodge's fishing-focused experience. This property is well suited for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the natural surroundings of Tennessee’s river landscape.

Summary compiled by GoHotelly editors from verified guest reviews, partner descriptions and editorial notes.
Facilities & essentials

What's on-site and what you should know before you arrive

The short version: what's available day-to-day, and the key practical details most travelers search for.

Most popular facilities

Free Wi-Fi
Parking
Kid-friendly
Smoke-free

Not available at this property

Pool
Restaurant
Fitness center
Verified guest reviews

What recent guests are actually saying

Reviews from travelers who stayed here in the last 12 months, grouped to help you spot the pattern quickly.

DM
David M Apr 04, 2026
10

What an amazing trip! This three day fishing trip was my first experience fly fishing for trout. Our guide, Braydon, not only provided excellent service but also gave us pointers along the way. We caught more rainbows and browns than I ever thought possible. The river is pristine and the lodge very comfortable welcoming. I was blown away by how we really were treated as valued guests by the entire staff as opposed to simply being customers. We will return! Thank you Jon, Matthew and everyone else involved who made this trip memorable and quite frankly the best experience one could hope for.

MC
Mario Campos Mar 10, 2026
10

Great staff, great location, great guides and awesome fly fishing. Travis was amazing, he help my buddy lots, gave him pointers and ensure we had a good day on the river. The food!! YUMMY. Thanks and I’ll back in the future.

NV
Nicole Vivoda Mar 01, 2026
10

Such a great all inclusive fishing experience, the lodge is cozy, food is great, staff is AMAZING and the fishing was fun. Bonus is that I was able to drive and enjoy the great scenery as I went. I will be going back in the future!

RM
Ryan Mount Feb 28, 2026
10

Wonderful Trip! Stayed for 3 days of fishing. Staff and Guides were fabulous. Andrew was our guide and did a great job. He was patient and awesome if you need instruction too. We caught a lot of trout. We had a group of 8 and all our friends also said their guides were great as well. The food was also first class.

RS
Ryan Sanok Jan 24, 2026
10

If you’re looking for a top notch lodge to fly fish with phenomenal guides and lodge staff, this is definitely the place you for you! The food was incredible, staff is super friendly, and the guides are extremely knowledgeable. I’ve traveled to many fishing lodges and this is by far my favorite. Highly recommend and will be back this season!

KH
Kreg Huffer Jan 18, 2026
10

The team at South Holston River Lodge, were phenomenal. Their attention to detail, communication and organization was unprecedented. Their knowledge of the rivers and the guides adaptability to a novice first time beginner , or an experienced flyfisherman was impressive. The food prepared by the kitchen staff along with service was great. There’s a reason why 85% of their customers are return clientele, and I’ll definitely be one of them! Dr. Kreg Huffer

LU
Larry Urban Jan 15, 2026
10

Five Star is an understatement, Three years ago they taught us to Fly Fish and every year we return for the fishing, food and friendship of guests and staff. What an experience! Guides are exceptional, patient with vast knowledge of the areas fishing. Don't miss your chance at this lodge....

CK
Chris Kuehn Dec 23, 2025
10

5-stars does not do this lodge justice! Jon and his crew provide excellent service and the meals were nothing short of outstanding. Guides were second to none and the fish were scared when we hit the water. Definitely an experience I will do again, thanks SHFL/Orvis!

Location & neighborhood

Where you'll find South Holston River Lodge

Bristol, Tennessee, USA

Set on the South Holston River, this laid-back fishing lodge is adjacent to Cherokee National Forest and 10 miles from Bristol Motor Speedway.

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