Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Friendship Marina
Friendship Marina is a public boat ramp on Sharp Creek - South Holston Lake near Shady Valley, 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
Launch into Sharp Creek - South Holston Lake near Shady Valley, Tennessee. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.
Friendship Marina is a public access point on Sharp Creek - South Holston Lake in Tennessee, giving paddlers a convenient entry to 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.
You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
Located about 10 min from Shady Valley, Friendship Marina is a convenient option for Shady Valley-area paddlers.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make Friendship Marina ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
Paddling Tips
- •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.
- •Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
- •Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Friendship Marina?
- Friendship Marina is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Friendship Marina?
- Friendship 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 Friendship Marina?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Friendship Marina?
- The best time to paddle at Friendship Marina is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at Friendship Marina?
- Water conditions at Friendship Marina include calm, sheltered.
- Is Friendship Marina good for beginners?
- Yes, Friendship 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: 36.5533, -82.0286
Quick Facts
- State
- Tennessee
- Region
- Southeast
- Getting There
- ~10 min from Shady Valley
36.5533, -82.0286
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!
Nearby Paddling

Hwy 421 Access Area
Tennessee · 0.9 mi
Baumgardner
Tennessee · 2.3 mi
Painter Creek Marina
Tennessee · 2.3 mi

South Holston Dam
Tennessee · 4.4 mi

Osceola Island
Tennessee · 5.0 mi
Emmett Bridge
Tennessee · 5.0 mi