Wheeler Dam

Wheeler Dam is a gravity dam spanning the Tennessee River between Lauderdale and Lawrence Counties. The structure creates a large reservoir and includes two navigation locks to allow boats to pass through the system.

The dam was built between 1933 and 1936 by the Tennessee Valley Authority as part of a major flood control and navigation improvement program. The project emerged during economic hardship and helped develop the region.

The National Register of Historic Places recognizes Wheeler Dam for its contribution to regional development during the Great Depression employment initiatives.

The dam is open to the public with viewpoints where you can see the full span of the structure and surrounding waters. Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures for exploring the area on foot.

The construction required the acquisition of 103,400 acres of land and employed 4,700 workers, making it the second major dam project by TVA.

Location: Lauderdale County

Location: Lawrence County

Inception: 1933

Length: 1,933 m

GPS coordinates: 34.80690,-87.38190

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:57