How do I access Hillman's Ferry?

Hillman's Ferry is a public boat ramp in Kentucky. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Hillman's Ferry?

Hillman's Ferry 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 Hillman's Ferry?

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 Hillman's Ferry?

The best time to paddle at Hillman's Ferry is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Hillman's Ferry?

Water conditions at Hillman's Ferry include calm, sheltered.

Is Hillman's Ferry good for beginners?

Yes, Hillman's Ferry 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.

woman in blue shirt and blue denim jeans riding orange kayak on water during daytime

Photo by Christian Bowen on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsDockCampingPicnic AreaADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Hillman's Ferry

Gilbertsville, KY · Boat Ramp · Public

Hillman's Ferry 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

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Hillman's Ferry offers lake paddling on Tennessee River - Kentucky Lake in Kentucky. Located near Gilbertsville.

Lake paddlers in Kentucky will appreciate Hillman's Ferry, which offers direct access to Tennessee River - Kentucky Lake and its surrounding waters.

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.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and dock and camping and picnic area and ada accessible.

Getting here from Gilbertsville takes about 5 min, putting Hillman's Ferry within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Hillman's Ferry ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•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.
•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Hillman's Ferry?: Hillman's Ferry is a public boat ramp in Kentucky. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Hillman's Ferry?: Hillman's Ferry 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 Hillman's Ferry?: 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 Hillman's Ferry?: The best time to paddle at Hillman's Ferry is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Hillman's Ferry?: Water conditions at Hillman's Ferry include calm, sheltered.
Is Hillman's Ferry good for beginners?: Yes, Hillman's Ferry 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: 36.9473, -88.1888