green and brown trees beside river during daytime
Photo by Michael S on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsFish Cleaning StationCampingLighting

Best Time to Visit

Cheatham Dam Campground

Chapmansboro, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Cheatham Dam Campground is a public boat ramp on Cumberland River - Cheatham Lake near Chapmansboro, 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

Cheatham Dam Campground offers lake paddling on Cumberland River - Cheatham Lake in Tennessee. Located near Chapmansboro.

Lake paddlers in Tennessee will appreciate Cheatham Dam Campground, which offers direct access to Cumberland River - Cheatham Lake and its surrounding waters.

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 fish cleaning station and camping and lighting.

At about 10 min from Chapmansboro, Cheatham Dam Campground is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Chapmansboro area.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Cheatham Dam Campground ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

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 Cheatham Dam Campground?
Cheatham Dam Campground is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. The entrance fee is Yes.
What activities are available at Cheatham Dam Campground?
Cheatham Dam Campground 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 Cheatham Dam Campground?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, fish cleaning station, camping, lighting. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Cheatham Dam Campground?
The best time to paddle at Cheatham Dam Campground is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Cheatham Dam Campground?
Water conditions at Cheatham Dam Campground include calm, sheltered.
Is Cheatham Dam Campground good for beginners?
Yes, Cheatham Dam Campground 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: 36.3151, -87.1866

Quick Facts

Region
Southeast
Getting There
~10 min from Chapmansboro
Get Directions

36.3151, -87.1866

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