How do I access Little Bear?

Little Bear is a public boat ramp in Kentucky. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Little Bear?

Little Bear 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 Little Bear?

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 Little Bear?

The best time to paddle at Little Bear is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Little Bear?

Water conditions at Little Bear include calm, sheltered.

Is Little Bear good for beginners?

Yes, Little Bear 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.

green and white mountains beside body of water under blue sky during daytime

Photo by Sheri Slaughter on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsDockPicnic AreaADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Little Bear

Gilbertsville, KY · Boat Ramp · Public

Little Bear 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

Lake access at Little Bear near Gilbertsville, Kentucky. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Situated on Tennessee River - Kentucky Lake in Kentucky, Little Bear is a launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and SUP enthusiasts.

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. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

Conditions here tend to be calm and sheltered, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and dock and picnic area and ada accessible.

At about 5 min from Gilbertsville, Little Bear is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Gilbertsville area.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Little Bear ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

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 Little Bear?: Little Bear is a public boat ramp in Kentucky. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Little Bear?: Little Bear 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 Little Bear?: 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 Little Bear?: The best time to paddle at Little Bear is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Little Bear?: Water conditions at Little Bear include calm, sheltered.
Is Little Bear good for beginners?: Yes, Little Bear 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: 36.9581, -88.2366