
Activity
Conditions
Amenities
South Lick Fork
South Lick Fork is a public boat ramp on Patoka Lake near Celestine, Indiana. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.
At a Glance
Water Body
Lake
Launch Type
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Fee
Lake Permit Required
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
Boat Ramp accessing Patoka Lake near Celestine, Indiana. calm and sheltered conditions.
South Lick Fork provides shoreline access to Patoka Lake in Indiana, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.
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. Midwestern waterways provide reliable paddling through the warmer months, with vast open spaces and uncrowded conditions.
Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and dock.
South Lick Fork sits about 5 min from Celestine, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make South Lick Fork ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
Paddling Tips
- •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.
- •If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access South Lick Fork?
- South Lick Fork is a public boat ramp in Indiana. The entrance fee is Lake Permit Required.
- What activities are available at South Lick Fork?
- South Lick Fork 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 South Lick Fork?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit South Lick Fork?
- The best time to paddle at South Lick Fork is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at South Lick Fork?
- Water conditions at South Lick Fork include calm, sheltered.
- Is South Lick Fork good for beginners?
- Yes, South Lick Fork 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: 38.3729, -86.6959
Quick Facts
- State
- Indiana
- Region
- Midwest
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Celestine
38.3729, -86.6959
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More Paddling on Patoka Lake
6 other launches on this water body

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Newton-Stewart
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Jackson
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Osborne
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Little Patoka
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Nearby Paddling

Lick Fork
Indiana · 2.4 mi
Patoka Lake South
Indiana · 3.4 mi
Newton-Stewart
Indiana · 4.4 mi

Jackson
Indiana · 4.9 mi

Osborne
Indiana · 5.6 mi

Little Patoka
Indiana · 5.9 mi