How do I access Cable Cove?

Cable Cove is a public boat ramp in North Carolina. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Cable Cove?

Cable Cove 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 Cable Cove?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, concessions. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Cable Cove?

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

What are the water conditions at Cable Cove?

Water conditions at Cable Cove include calm, sheltered.

Is Cable Cove good for beginners?

Yes, Cable Cove 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.

red and white kayak on lake during daytime

Photo by Leslie Cross on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingConcessions

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Cable Cove

Fontana Dam, NC · Boat Ramp · Public

Cable Cove is a public boat ramp on Little Tennessee River (Fontana Lake) near Fontana Dam, North Carolina. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, concessions. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

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

Boat Ramp accessing Little Tennessee River (Fontana Lake) near Fontana Dam, North Carolina. calm and sheltered conditions.

Cable Cove provides shoreline access to Little Tennessee River (Fontana Lake) in North Carolina, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.

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.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and concessions.

Getting here from Fontana Dam takes about 5 min, putting Cable Cove within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
•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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Cable Cove?: Cable Cove is a public boat ramp in North Carolina. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Cable Cove?: Cable Cove 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 Cable Cove?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, concessions. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Cable Cove?: The best time to paddle at Cable Cove is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Cable Cove?: Water conditions at Cable Cove include calm, sheltered.
Is Cable Cove good for beginners?: Yes, Cable Cove 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: 35.4378, -83.7479