green and brown trees beside river during daytime
Photo by Michael S on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Friendship Marina

Shady Valley, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

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

Region
Southeast
Getting There
~10 min from Shady Valley
Get Directions

36.5533, -82.0286

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