
Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Paint Lick
Paint Lick is a public boat ramp on Kentucky River near Bryantsville, Kentucky. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. 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
Limited
Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.
About This Location
River access at Paint Lick near Bryantsville, Kentucky. Good for kayaking and canoeing.
Paint Lick offers access to Kentucky River in Kentucky. This stretch of river draws paddlers looking for mild current conditions.
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. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.
Conditions here tend to be mild current, 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 camping and picnic area and concessions and ada accessible.
At about 10 min from Bryantsville, Paint Lick is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Bryantsville area.
Paddling Tips
- •Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
- •Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
- •Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
- •River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Paint Lick?
- Paint Lick is a public boat ramp in Kentucky. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Paint Lick?
- Paint Lick supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at Paint Lick?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, camping, picnic area, concessions, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Paint Lick?
- The best time to paddle at Paint Lick is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at Paint Lick?
- Water conditions at Paint Lick include mild current.
- Is Paint Lick good for beginners?
- Yes, Paint Lick 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: 37.7684, -84.5254
Quick Facts
- State
- Kentucky
- Region
- Southeast
- Getting There
- ~10 min from Bryantsville
37.7684, -84.5254
Best Paddling in Kentucky
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Paddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
More Paddling on Kentucky River
6 other launches on this water body

John Nickell Boat
Kentucky · 0.1 mi
Poosey Ridge
Kentucky · 3.1 mi

Palisades Adventures
Kentucky · 11.3 mi
High Bridge
Kentucky · 11.5 mi
Nonesuch
Kentucky · 16.3 mi
Boonesborough State Park
Kentucky · 16.9 mi
Nearby Paddling

John Nickell Boat
Kentucky · 0.1 mi
Poosey Ridge
Kentucky · 3.1 mi

Hunter's Ferry
Kentucky · 3.2 mi

Valley View Carrydown (Jessamine Co.)
Kentucky · 7.3 mi

Valley View Carrydown (Madison Co.)
Kentucky · 7.3 mi

Lake Mingo
Kentucky · 8.5 mi