Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Clifton Marina
Clifton Marina is a public boat ramp on Tennessee River - Kentucky Lake near Clifton, 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
Free
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 Tennessee River - Kentucky Lake near Clifton, Tennessee. calm and sheltered conditions.
Clifton Marina provides shoreline access to Tennessee River - Kentucky Lake in Tennessee, 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 restrooms and dock and fishing pier and lighting and concessions.
Getting here from Clifton takes about 5 min, putting Clifton Marina within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make Clifton Marina ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
Paddling Tips
- •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.
- •Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Clifton Marina?
- Clifton Marina is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Clifton Marina?
- Clifton Marina 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 Clifton Marina?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock, fishing pier, lighting, concessions. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Clifton Marina?
- The best time to paddle at Clifton Marina is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at Clifton Marina?
- Water conditions at Clifton Marina include calm, sheltered.
- Is Clifton Marina good for beginners?
- Yes, Clifton Marina 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: 35.3860, -88.0065
Quick Facts
- State
- Tennessee
- Region
- Southeast
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Clifton
35.3860, -88.0065
Best Paddling in Tennessee
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Paddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
More Paddling on Kentucky Lake
6 other launches on this water body
Clifton
Tennessee · 0.7 mi
Old Clifton Ferry
Tennessee · 0.8 mi
Beech Creek
Tennessee · 2.8 mi
Riverstone Marina
Tennessee · 3.0 mi
Wilkinson Ferry
Tennessee · 10.8 mi
Saltillo Landing
Tennessee · 11.0 mi
Nearby Paddling
Clifton
Tennessee · 0.7 mi
Old Clifton Ferry
Tennessee · 0.8 mi

Glenkirk Landing
Tennessee · 2.7 mi
Beech Creek
Tennessee · 2.8 mi
Riverstone Marina
Tennessee · 3.0 mi
Rivers Edge Drive
Tennessee · 3.5 mi