The Maclellan Island Sanctuary is located in the middle of downtown Chattanooga on the Tennessee River.

Owned and managed by the Chattanooga Audubon Society, the sanctuary contains a very large Great Blue Heron rookery, numerous waterfowl nesting sites and also serves as a home to muskrat, river otters, and the occasional white-tailed deer.

The public can access the island via a power boat dock on the southwest side or a canoe and kayak launch on the northeast side. The island contains a system of hiking trails, a group campground and is a designated campsite for the Tennessee River Blueway paddling trail. Day and overnight usage fees apply.

The best launch for canoes, kayaks and SUP’s in downtown Chattanooga is located on the north shore of the Tennessee River in Coolidge Park, under the John Ross (Market St.) Bridge.