Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Dickerson Chapel

Castalian Springs, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Dickerson Chapel is a public boat ramp on Cumberland River - Old Hickory Lake near Castalian Springs, Tennessee. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. 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

Limited

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

About This Location

Public launch on Cumberland River - Old Hickory Lake in Tennessee. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Castalian Springs.

Paddlers visiting Cumberland River - Old Hickory Lake in Tennessee can launch from Dickerson Chapel, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

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

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

Dickerson Chapel sits about 10 min from Castalian Springs, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Dickerson Chapel 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 Dickerson Chapel?
Dickerson Chapel is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Dickerson Chapel?
Dickerson Chapel 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 Dickerson Chapel?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Dickerson Chapel?
The best time to paddle at Dickerson Chapel is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Dickerson Chapel?
Water conditions at Dickerson Chapel include calm, sheltered.
Is Dickerson Chapel good for beginners?
Yes, Dickerson Chapel 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: 36.3049, -86.2338

Quick Facts

Region
Southeast
Getting There
~10 min from Castalian Springs
Get Directions

36.3049, -86.2338

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