Activity
Conditions
Amenities
James H. Floyd State Park - Upper
James H. Floyd State Park - Upper is a public boat ramp on Upper Lake near Summerville, 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
Good
Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
About This Location
James H. Floyd State Park - Upper offers lake paddling on Upper Lake in Georgia. Located near Summerville.
Lake paddlers in Georgia will appreciate James H. Floyd State Park - Upper, which offers direct access to Upper Lake and its surrounding waters.
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. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.
Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
James H. Floyd State Park - Upper sits about 5 min from Summerville, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make James H. Floyd State Park - Upper 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 James H. Floyd State Park - Upper?
- James H. Floyd State Park - Upper is a public boat ramp in Georgia. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at James H. Floyd State Park - Upper?
- James H. Floyd State Park - Upper 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 James H. Floyd State Park - Upper?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit James H. Floyd State Park - Upper?
- The best time to paddle at James H. Floyd State Park - Upper is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at James H. Floyd State Park - Upper?
- Water conditions at James H. Floyd State Park - Upper include calm, sheltered.
- Is James H. Floyd State Park - Upper good for beginners?
- Yes, James H. Floyd State Park - Upper 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: 34.4392, -85.3377
Quick Facts
- State
- Georgia
- Region
- Southeast
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Summerville
34.4392, -85.3377
Best Paddling in Georgia
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Share a trip report
Sign in to write a detailed trip report for James H. Floyd State Park - Upper
Sign InPaddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
Nearby Paddling
James H. Floyd State Park - Lower
Georgia · 0.1 mi

Rocky Mountain Public Fishing Area - Antioch East
Georgia · 5.3 mi

Rocky Mountain Public Fishing Area - Antioch West
Georgia · 5.4 mi

Rocky Mountain Public Fishing Area - Heath Lake
Georgia · 6.7 mi
State Highway 140
Georgia · 12.9 mi
Old River Road
Georgia · 13.2 mi