Frequently Asked Questions

Planning your perfect Norris Lake getaway should be easy and stress-free. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the most commonly asked questions about Dockside Dreaming—from amenities and check-in details to what to bring and what to expect.

If you don’t see your question answered here, please don’t hesitate to reach out! We’re always happy to help and we welcome your questions, feedback, and suggestions. Our goal is to ensure your stay is relaxing, memorable, and exactly what lake life should be.

How many people can stay at the house?

The property comfortably accommodates up to 28 guests across 8 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, making it perfect for family reunions, group retreats, or large gatherings. There are a total of 17 beds - (1) King, (3) Queens, (8) Doubles & (5) Twins.

What on-site & outdoor amenities are provided?

Double‑deck dock with slide, jump platform, lounge chairs and picnic tables
Complimentary kayaks
Outdoor propane BBQ grill & accessories
Hot tub and out-door tables and chairs on all deck levels
Arcade game, air hockey table, Cornhole boards & lots of board games
Smart TV's, Internet, whole home sound system
Access to community pool, basketball court, and private boat ramp
On‑site parking and trailer storage

Where is Dockside Dreaming located?

The home is located inside the gated Lakeside Estates neighborhood. Lakeside Estates is on the shores of Norris Lake behind the Cedar Creek Bridge (jumping bridge), surrounded by beautiful mountains. Dockside Dreaming is tucked into the wooded mountainside facing the lake for a spectacular panoramic view of the mountains and water. Norris Lake a premier destination for boating, watersports, and swimming because the water is calm, clear, deep & clean. LaFollette is a 10 minute drive from the house and Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg is only a 90 minute drive - making the perfect day trip!

Is boating equipment included or available?

While boat rentals are not included, we partner with Oasis Power Sports, and rented boats can be delivered directly to your dock, free of charge. Kayaks are provided free of charge. Please bring your own life jackets for all your guests!

Do you allow pets?

Although we are pet lovers ourselves, pets are not allowed due to the many pet allergies that other guests can have and there is not a great place for them to go on walks to use the bathroom.

How does parking work? Are boat trailers allowed?

There is plenty of room for 4-5 cars right out front of the house. Any additional cars can utilize the neighborhood overflow parking lot. If you're bringing a boat, please drop it off before driving to the house. Blue Water Lane is a dead-end road with no space to turn a trailer around — attempting to do so will cause difficulty and possible damage, so we kindly ask that you do not take your boat down that road. Trailer parking is also in the overflow lot.

How are check‑in and check‑out handled?

Check-in is at 4pm and Check-out is at 10am. We often get requests to arrive early and/or leave out a bit later. We will try our best to accommodate these requests, but in the busy season we often have groups coming in the same day as others are checking out, in which case we are unable to accommodate. If we are not back-to-back on your particular day, we are happy to be flexible.

What should guests bring or expect to bring?

We provide:

Bath towels, hand towels and wash cloths
Linens, blankets and pillows
Starter toilet paper roll in each bathroom, starter trash can liners in each trash can
Starter dishwashing packets and starter paper towel rolls in each kitchen
Plenty of chairs on decks and dock
Kitchens are fully stocked, and BBQ grill has propane and utensils

What you need to bring:

Beach towels
Life vests for all your guests!! SUPER IMPORTANT
Float toys or noodles
Trash bags - tall kitchen, and medium for bathroom cans
Paper products (toilet paper, paper towels, napkins, etc.)
Dishwashing and laundry detergent
Personal bath products (soap, shampoo, etc.)

Are there safety considerations visitors should know?

Stairs can be steep—though multi-generational guests have managed safely
Cell service may be spotty but the Wi‑Fi is very reliable
Dock activity requires appropriate supervision, especially around children
Life Jackets are strongly suggested at all times around the dock & lake.

Are there nearby grocery, medical, or dining options?

Yes, the house is located 10 minutes from LaFollette which has grocery stores, restaurants, fast food, pharmacies, urgent care, and a hospital.

Is someone local available to help us if something goes wrong?

Yes! We have the best and most responsive house manager who lives local and has managed this house along with many others in the neighborhood for 8+ years. She is absolutely great to work with, and her contact information is provided in the welcome email sent a few days before arrival.