a couple of boats that are sitting in the water
Photo by Melissa on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingDockRestrooms

Best Time to Visit

Whippoorwill Sportsman's Lodge

Hosford, FL · Boat Ramp · Public

Whippoorwill Sportsman's Lodge is a public boat ramp on Ochlockonee River - Lake Talquin near Hosford, Florida. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. Best visited in spring and summer and fall and winter.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

3

Hours

24 Hours

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Public launch on Ochlockonee River - Lake Talquin in Florida. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Hosford.

Paddlers visiting Ochlockonee River - Lake Talquin in Florida can launch from Whippoorwill Sportsman's Lodge, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. Year-round is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and dock and restrooms.

Getting here from Hosford takes about 15 min, putting Whippoorwill Sportsman's Lodge within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Whippoorwill Sportsman's Lodge ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
  • Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
  • Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Whippoorwill Sportsman's Lodge?
Whippoorwill Sportsman's Lodge is a public boat ramp in Florida. The entrance fee is 3. Hours: 24 Hours.
What activities are available at Whippoorwill Sportsman's Lodge?
Whippoorwill Sportsman's Lodge supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Whippoorwill Sportsman's Lodge?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, restrooms. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Whippoorwill Sportsman's Lodge?
The best time to paddle at Whippoorwill Sportsman's Lodge is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Whippoorwill Sportsman's Lodge?
Water conditions at Whippoorwill Sportsman's Lodge include calm, sheltered.
Is Whippoorwill Sportsman's Lodge good for beginners?
Yes, Whippoorwill Sportsman's Lodge is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 30.4211, -84.6258

Quick Facts

State
Florida
Region
Southeast
Getting There
~15 min from Hosford
Get Directions

30.4211, -84.6258

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