Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Devil's Elbow
Devil's Elbow is a public boat ramp on Cumberland River - Lake Barkley near Cadiz, 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
Boat Ramp accessing Cumberland River - Lake Barkley near Cadiz, Kentucky. calm and sheltered conditions.
Devil's Elbow provides shoreline access to Cumberland River - Lake Barkley in Kentucky, 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.
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 camping and picnic area and ada accessible.
Located about 10 min from Cadiz, Devil's Elbow is a convenient option for Cadiz-area paddlers.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make Devil's Elbow ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
Paddling Tips
- •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.
- •Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Devil's Elbow?
- Devil's Elbow is a public boat ramp in Kentucky. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Devil's Elbow?
- Devil's Elbow 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 Devil's Elbow?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock, camping, picnic area, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Devil's Elbow?
- The best time to paddle at Devil's Elbow is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at Devil's Elbow?
- Water conditions at Devil's Elbow include calm, sheltered.
- Is Devil's Elbow good for beginners?
- Yes, Devil's Elbow 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: 36.7948, -87.9964
Quick Facts
- State
- Kentucky
- Region
- Southeast
- Getting There
- ~10 min from Cadiz
36.7948, -87.9964
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