Johnson County, TN Real Estate

If you’re interested in Johnson County, TN real estate, chances are you’re wondering what life is like in this high country region in Tennessee. Whether you’re just looking for a vacation spot on your way from the nearby state park or are looking for a permanent place to retire or raise a family, Johnson County has a lot to offer.

In this article, we break down the top reasons why you’ll want to move to Johnson County. Whether you’re a musician, a hiker, an artist, or a historian, chances are Johnson County has something to interest you!

Reason #1: Elk Knob State Park

You don’t have to be an avid outdoorsman to appreciate the panoramic views of Elk Knob State Park. One of the newer parks in the area, this outdoor recreation location is open to hikers, mountain bikers, backpackers, and campers beginning in 2003. Local authorities make an effort to keep Elk Knob open all year round—so bring your snowshoes and sleds for extended wintertime play! Once you explore the backpacking trails of Elk Knob State Park, it’s hard not to fall in love with this gorgeous snapshot of the Appalachian Mountains. If the view from Elk Knob doesn’t get you interested in Johnson County, TN real estate, we don’t know what will!

Reason #2: Doe Mountain Recreation Area

While Elk Knob State Park is known for its spectacular views, it’s not the only nature conserve around worth visiting! With nearly 9,000 acres of forested land to explore, Doe Mountain offers hikers, mountain bikers, and dirt bikers the opportunity to connect with the natural beauty Appalachia has to offer! Be sure to check their website before heading out for relevant trail info, weather updates, pass information, and more!

Reason #3: The Area's Rich History

If you’re at all interested in Appalachian history or Native American culture, there’s a lot to appreciate about Johnson County. While the county’s written history goes back as early as the turn of the 19th century, ancient nomadic people may have passed through the area as early as 6,000 years ago. With annual celebrations like Trade Days and the Mountain City Fiddler’s Convention, the people of Johnson County keep history and the arts alive with year-round creative engagement. If you are a musician, artist, creative person, or simply an appreciator of the arts, you will love the culture of Johnson County!

Reason #4: Cherokee National Forest

Cherokee National Forest spans 650,000 acres in Tennessee and reaches into Georgia, North Carolina, and Virginia. Created in 1920, this expansive national forest has long attracted hikers, backpackers, mountain bikers, hunters, and even snorkelers to explore its rugged landscape and clear waters. Right in Johnson County’s backyard, Cherokee National Forest is an incredible resource accessible to those who opt for a permit to either utilize the trails, hunt, or harvest firewood.

Reason #5: Watauga Lake

As if there weren’t enough natural attractions in Johnson County, Watauga Lake is often referred to as the “crown jewel” of eastern Tennessee. With clear, greenish-blue waters that are said to be the third cleanest of any lake in the United States, Watauga Lake attracts boaters, swimmers, and walkers each year to its meandering shores. For more information about what it’s like to visit Watauga Lake, click here.

Reason #6: Johnson County Public Schools and Continued Education

Especially in Mountain City, public schools are rated above the national average. This is just part of what makes Johnson County a great place to raise a family. If you have already achieved standard schooling, Johnson County also offers classes at local art schools. Some of these classes are free to the public or are available online and all are open to all ages.

Reason #7: Mountain City is the County Seat

If you are a musician, especially a fiddler player, Mountain City is an excellent place to sink your roots. With annual festivals revolving around Appalachian music as well as a proximity to several nearby Appalachian music schools, Mountain City has a history as a meeting place for those who enjoy music. With over 10 murals packed into Mountain City’s charming downtown, Mountain City enjoys a relatively central location in Johnson County, further making it an excellent place to meet up. If you are fond of the experience of living in a small town, Mountain City will win you over!