How do I access Big Bear Public Use Area?

Big Bear Public Use Area is a public boat ramp in Kentucky. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Big Bear Public Use Area?

Big Bear Public Use Area 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 Big Bear Public Use Area?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock, picnic area, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Big Bear Public Use Area?

The best time to paddle at Big Bear Public Use Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Big Bear Public Use Area?

Water conditions at Big Bear Public Use Area include calm, sheltered.

Is Big Bear Public Use Area good for beginners?

Yes, Big Bear Public Use Area 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.

a group of young boys paddling canoes on a lake

Photo by Tommy Fogelberg on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsDockPicnic AreaADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Big Bear Public Use Area

Gilbertsville, KY · Boat Ramp · Public

Big Bear Public Use Area is a public boat ramp on Tennessee River - Kentucky Lake near Gilbertsville, Kentucky. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Free

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

Launch into Tennessee River - Kentucky Lake near Gilbertsville, Kentucky. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

Big Bear Public Use Area is a public access point on Tennessee River - Kentucky Lake in Kentucky, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.

You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and dock and picnic area and ada accessible.

Located about 5 min from Gilbertsville, Big Bear Public Use Area is a convenient option for Gilbertsville-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Big Bear Public Use Area ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•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.
•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Big Bear Public Use Area?: Big Bear Public Use Area is a public boat ramp in Kentucky. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Big Bear Public Use Area?: Big Bear Public Use Area 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 Big Bear Public Use Area?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock, picnic area, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Big Bear Public Use Area?: The best time to paddle at Big Bear Public Use Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Big Bear Public Use Area?: Water conditions at Big Bear Public Use Area include calm, sheltered.
Is Big Bear Public Use Area good for beginners?: Yes, Big Bear Public Use Area 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: 36.8957, -88.2226