Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingCampingKayak LaunchADA AccessibleLightingConcessions

Best Time to Visit

City of Kingsport

Mount Carmel, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

City of Kingsport is a public boat ramp on South Fork Holston River near Mount Carmel, Tennessee. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, camping. 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

Good

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

About This Location

City of Kingsport offers river paddling on South Fork Holston River in Tennessee. Located near Mount Carmel.

Located in Tennessee, City of Kingsport puts you on South Fork Holston River with room to explore upstream or downstream from the launch.

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.

You can expect mild current water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and camping and kayak launch and ada accessible and lighting and concessions.

Located about 5 min from Mount Carmel, City of Kingsport is a convenient option for Mount Carmel-area paddlers.

Paddling Tips

  • River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
  • 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access City of Kingsport?
City of Kingsport is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at City of Kingsport?
City of Kingsport supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at City of Kingsport?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, camping, kayak launch, ada accessible, lighting, concessions. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit City of Kingsport?
The best time to paddle at City of Kingsport is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at City of Kingsport?
Water conditions at City of Kingsport include mild current.
Is City of Kingsport good for beginners?
Yes, City of Kingsport 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: 36.5504, -82.6100

Quick Facts

Region
Southeast
Getting There
~5 min from Mount Carmel
Get Directions

36.5504, -82.6100

Best Paddling in Tennessee

Read our complete guide →

Paddler Reviews

Write a Review

0/5,000 characters

Sign in to add photos to your review.

Trip Reports

Share a trip report

Sign in to write a detailed trip report for City of Kingsport

Sign In

Paddle Routes from Here

No paddle routes from this location yet.

Be the first to create one!