Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingKayak Launch

Best Time to Visit

Duck River Unit Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge

New Johnsonville, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Duck River Unit Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge is a public boat ramp on Tennessee River - Kentucky Lake near New Johnsonville, Tennessee. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, kayak launch. 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 New Johnsonville, Tennessee. calm and sheltered conditions.

Duck River Unit Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge provides shoreline access to Tennessee River - Kentucky Lake in Tennessee, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.

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.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and kayak launch.

Getting here from New Johnsonville takes about 5 min, putting Duck River Unit Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Duck River Unit Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge 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 Duck River Unit Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge?
Duck River Unit Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Duck River Unit Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge?
Duck River Unit Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge 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 Duck River Unit Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, kayak launch. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Duck River Unit Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge?
The best time to paddle at Duck River Unit Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Duck River Unit Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge?
Water conditions at Duck River Unit Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge include calm, sheltered.
Is Duck River Unit Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge good for beginners?
Yes, Duck River Unit Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge 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: 35.9681, -87.9940

Quick Facts

Region
Southeast
Getting There
~5 min from New Johnsonville
Get Directions

35.9681, -87.9940

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