Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Hawesville
Hawesville is a public boat ramp on Ohio River near Cannelton, Kentucky. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.
At a Glance
Water Body
River
Launch Type
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Fee
Free
Activities
Kayaking, Canoeing
Parking
Parking lot available at boat ramp facility
Cell Service
Good
Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.
About This Location
River access at Hawesville near Cannelton, Kentucky. Good for kayaking and canoeing.
Hawesville offers access to Ohio River in Kentucky. This stretch of river draws paddlers looking for mild current conditions.
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.
Water conditions are generally mild current. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
Getting here from Cannelton takes about 5 min, putting Hawesville within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.
Paddling Tips
- •Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
- •River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
- •Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
- •Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Hawesville?
- Hawesville is a public boat ramp in Kentucky. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Hawesville?
- Hawesville supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at Hawesville?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Hawesville?
- The best time to paddle at Hawesville is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at Hawesville?
- Water conditions at Hawesville include mild current.
- Is Hawesville good for beginners?
- Yes, Hawesville is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.
Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 37.9038, -86.7484
Quick Facts
- State
- Kentucky
- Region
- Southeast
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Cannelton
37.9038, -86.7484
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Nearby Paddling

Cannelton
Indiana · 0.4 mi
Vastwood Park
Kentucky · 2.3 mi
Tell City
Indiana · 3.1 mi
Rocky Point Marina
Indiana · 4.2 mi
Millstone Creek
Kentucky · 5.8 mi
Troy Public Site
Indiana · 6.9 mi