How do I access Big Eddy?

Big Eddy is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Big Eddy?

Big Eddy supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Big Eddy?

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

When is the best time to visit Big Eddy?

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

What are the water conditions at Big Eddy?

Water conditions at Big Eddy include mild current.

Is Big Eddy good for beginners?

Yes, Big Eddy 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.

a red kayak sitting on top of a lake next to a fallen tree

Photo by Barbara Burgess on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Big Eddy

Mercer, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Big Eddy is a public boat ramp on Hatchie River near Mercer, Tennessee. 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

Limited

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

Launch into Hatchie River near Mercer, Tennessee. Beginner level with mild current water.

Big Eddy is a public launch site on Hatchie River in Tennessee, serving as a popular put-in for paddlers exploring this section of the river.

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

Expect mild current conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Big Eddy sits about 10 min from Mercer, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

Paddling Tips

•Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
•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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Big Eddy?: Big Eddy is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Big Eddy?: Big Eddy supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Big Eddy?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Big Eddy?: The best time to paddle at Big Eddy is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Big Eddy?: Water conditions at Big Eddy include mild current.
Is Big Eddy good for beginners?: Yes, Big Eddy 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: 35.4709, -89.1396