How do I access Carters Ferry?

Carters Ferry is a public boat ramp in Georgia. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Carters Ferry?

Carters Ferry 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 Carters Ferry?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Carters Ferry?

The best time to paddle at Carters Ferry is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Carters Ferry?

Water conditions at Carters Ferry include calm, sheltered.

Is Carters Ferry good for beginners?

Yes, Carters Ferry 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.

brown wooden house on lake during daytime

Photo by Brian Lundquist on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Carters Ferry

Hartwell, GA · Boat Ramp · Public

Carters Ferry is a public boat ramp on Savannah River - Lake Hartwell near Hartwell, Georgia. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

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 Savannah River - Lake Hartwell in Georgia. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Hartwell.

Paddlers visiting Savannah River - Lake Hartwell in Georgia can launch from Carters Ferry, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

Conditions here tend to be calm and sheltered, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

At about 5 min from Hartwell, Carters Ferry is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Hartwell area.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Carters Ferry ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
•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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Carters Ferry?: Carters Ferry is a public boat ramp in Georgia. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Carters Ferry?: Carters Ferry 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 Carters Ferry?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Carters Ferry?: The best time to paddle at Carters Ferry is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Carters Ferry?: Water conditions at Carters Ferry include calm, sheltered.
Is Carters Ferry good for beginners?: Yes, Carters Ferry 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: 34.4097, -82.8641