Monroe County, Tennessee
Monroe County sits in southeastern Tennessee, right along the North Carolina border. The landscape has a little bit of everything, from rugged mountains in the east to lakes and rolling countryside farther west.
Tellico Lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and other water activities. Madisonville serves as the county seat and has a charming downtown that feels like a step back in time. Much of the southeastern part of the county is covered by Cherokee National Forest, giving outdoor lovers plenty of room to explore.
History buffs can visit Fort Loudoun State Park, a historic site connected to the French and Indian War. Dairy farming is also an important part of the local landscape, and you’ll see plenty of farms and grazing cattle along the country roads. Monroe County is scenic, peaceful, and easygoing—the kind of place where you can slow down and enjoy the surroundings.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Monroe County |
| County Seat | Madisonville |
| Population | Approximately 48,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Madisonville, Sweetwater, Tellico Plains, Vonore, Coker Creek |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 411, State Highway 68 |
| FIPS Code | 47-123 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 653 square miles (636 sq mi land, 17 sq mi water) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Loudon County (North), Blount County (Northeast), Graham County, North Carolina (East), Cherokee County, North Carolina (Southeast), Polk County (Southwest), McMinn County (West) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (EST) |
| State | Tennessee |
| Coordinates | 35°31’N, 84°21’W |
| Etymology | Named after James Monroe, the fifth President of the United States |
| Major Landmarks | Cherokee National Forest, Tellico Plains, Sequoyah Birthplace Museum, Fort Loudoun State Historic Park |
