How do I access Gilmore Docks?

Gilmore Docks is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. The entrance fee is Yes.

What activities are available at Gilmore Docks?

Gilmore Docks supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

When is the best time to visit Gilmore Docks?

The best time to paddle at Gilmore Docks is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Gilmore Docks?

Water conditions at Gilmore Docks include calm, sheltered.

Is Gilmore Docks good for beginners?

Yes, Gilmore Docks 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.

a body of water with trees in the background

Photo by carlos veliz on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsFish Cleaning StationCampingKayak LaunchConcessions

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Gilmore Docks

Bean Station, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Gilmore Docks is a public boat ramp on Holston River - Cherokee Lake near Bean Station, 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

Limited

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

About This Location

Boat Ramp accessing Holston River - Cherokee Lake near Bean Station, Tennessee. calm and sheltered conditions.

Gilmore Docks provides shoreline access to Holston River - Cherokee Lake in Tennessee, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.

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 and restrooms and fish cleaning station and camping and kayak launch and concessions.

Located about 10 min from Bean Station, Gilmore Docks is a convenient option for Bean Station-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Gilmore Docks ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

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 Gilmore Docks?: Gilmore Docks is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. The entrance fee is Yes.
What activities are available at Gilmore Docks?: Gilmore Docks 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 Gilmore Docks?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, fish cleaning station, camping, kayak launch, concessions. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Gilmore Docks?: The best time to paddle at Gilmore Docks is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Gilmore Docks?: Water conditions at Gilmore Docks include calm, sheltered.
Is Gilmore Docks good for beginners?: Yes, Gilmore Docks 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: 36.2702, -83.3937