Normandy Lake is a 3,048-acre reservoir located in south-central Tennessee, primarily in Coffee County. Completed in 1976, the lake has a full pool elevation of 875 feet above sea level and a winter pool elevation of 864 feet. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) owns and operates the reservoir.

Four public boat access sites are available at no cost: Wards Chapel, Barton Springs, Boyds Branch, and Normandy Dam. The Barton Springs access site features two public fishing piers. Bank fishing access is available at the Normandy Dam site.

Paddlers should be aware of the lake's seasonal water level fluctuations. TVA provides daily water level information through their website and mobile app. The lake experiences thermal stratification during summer months, with the thermocline typically occurring between 12-15 feet deep in the lower reservoir and 10-12 feet in the upper section.

Normandy Lake supports diverse fish populations, including largemouth bass, spotted bass, crappie, and walleye. Thirty-five fish attractor sites maintained by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) are scattered throughout the lake, potentially creating submerged hazards for paddlers.

The lake's environment changes seasonally. In early spring, particularly April, fish move to shallow areas. During summer, fish tend to occupy deeper waters. Night fishing with lights to attract baitfish is popular in summer months, especially near the Barton Springs Bridge.

Two campgrounds, Barton Springs and Cedar Point, are managed by TVA near the lake. Paddlers should be prepared for potential interactions with motorized boat traffic, especially during peak fishing seasons.