Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Elm Hill - South
Elm Hill - South is a public boat ramp on Stones River - J. Percy Priest Lake near Hermitage, 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
Good
Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
About This Location
Lake access at Elm Hill - South near Hermitage, Tennessee. Good for kayaking and canoeing.
Situated on Stones River - J. Percy Priest Lake in Tennessee, Elm Hill - South is a launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and SUP enthusiasts.
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.
Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and dock and camping and kayak launch and ada accessible and lighting and concessions.
Elm Hill - South sits about 5 min from Hermitage, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make Elm Hill - South ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
Paddling Tips
- •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.
- •If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Elm Hill - South?
- Elm Hill - South is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. The entrance fee is Yes.
- What activities are available at Elm Hill - South?
- Elm Hill - South 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 Elm Hill - South?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock, camping, kayak launch, ada accessible, lighting, concessions. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Elm Hill - South?
- The best time to paddle at Elm Hill - South is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at Elm Hill - South?
- Water conditions at Elm Hill - South include calm, sheltered.
- Is Elm Hill - South good for beginners?
- Yes, Elm Hill - South 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: 36.1275, -86.6214
Quick Facts
- State
- Tennessee
- Region
- Southeast
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Hermitage
36.1275, -86.6214
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 J. Percy Priest Lake
6 other launches on this water body
Elm Hill - North
Tennessee · 0.4 mi
Hamilton Creek
Tennessee · 1.1 mi
Hamilton Creek
Tennessee · 1.2 mi
Smith's Spring Park
Tennessee · 1.4 mi
Cook Recreation Area
Tennessee · 1.5 mi
Hermitage - West
Tennessee · 1.5 mi
Nearby Paddling
Elm Hill - North
Tennessee · 0.4 mi
Hamilton Creek
Tennessee · 1.1 mi
Hamilton Creek
Tennessee · 1.2 mi
Smith's Spring Park
Tennessee · 1.4 mi
Cook Recreation Area
Tennessee · 1.5 mi
Hermitage - West
Tennessee · 1.5 mi