How do I access Cardinal Cove Resort?

Cardinal Cove Resort is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. The entrance fee is Yes.

What activities are available at Cardinal Cove Resort?

Cardinal Cove Resort 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 Cardinal Cove Resort?

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

When is the best time to visit Cardinal Cove Resort?

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

What are the water conditions at Cardinal Cove Resort?

Water conditions at Cardinal Cove Resort include calm, sheltered.

Is Cardinal Cove Resort good for beginners?

Yes, Cardinal Cove Resort 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.

a river running through a lush green forest

Photo by Gigin Krishnan on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsCampingKayak LaunchConcessions

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Cardinal Cove Resort

Rutledge, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Cardinal Cove Resort is a public boat ramp on Holston River - Cherokee Lake near Rutledge, Tennessee. 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

Yes

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

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

About This Location

Lake access at Cardinal Cove Resort near Rutledge, Tennessee. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Situated on Holston River - Cherokee Lake in Tennessee, Cardinal Cove Resort is a launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and SUP enthusiasts.

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 restrooms and camping and kayak launch and concessions.

Getting here from Rutledge takes about 5 min, putting Cardinal Cove Resort within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•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.
•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Cardinal Cove Resort?: Cardinal Cove Resort is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. The entrance fee is Yes.
What activities are available at Cardinal Cove Resort?: Cardinal Cove Resort 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 Cardinal Cove Resort?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, camping, kayak launch, concessions. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Cardinal Cove Resort?: The best time to paddle at Cardinal Cove Resort is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Cardinal Cove Resort?: Water conditions at Cardinal Cove Resort include calm, sheltered.
Is Cardinal Cove Resort good for beginners?: Yes, Cardinal Cove Resort 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: 36.2619, -83.4141