How do I access Gunnels Camp?

Gunnels Camp is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Gunnels Camp?

Gunnels Camp 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 Gunnels Camp?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, camping, concessions. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Gunnels Camp?

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

What are the water conditions at Gunnels Camp?

Water conditions at Gunnels Camp include calm, sheltered.

Is Gunnels Camp good for beginners?

Yes, Gunnels Camp 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.

green trees beside body of water during daytime

Photo by Susanne Alexander on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingCampingConcessions

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Gunnels Camp

Byrdstown, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Gunnels Camp is a public boat ramp on Obey River - Dale Hollow Lake near Byrdstown, Tennessee. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, camping. 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

Gunnels Camp offers lake paddling on Obey River - Dale Hollow Lake in Tennessee. Located near Byrdstown.

Lake paddlers in Tennessee will appreciate Gunnels Camp, which offers direct access to Obey River - Dale Hollow Lake and its surrounding waters.

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 camping and concessions.

Located about 5 min from Byrdstown, Gunnels Camp is a convenient option for Byrdstown-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

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 Gunnels Camp?: Gunnels Camp is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Gunnels Camp?: Gunnels Camp 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 Gunnels Camp?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, camping, concessions. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Gunnels Camp?: The best time to paddle at Gunnels Camp is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Gunnels Camp?: Water conditions at Gunnels Camp include calm, sheltered.
Is Gunnels Camp good for beginners?: Yes, Gunnels Camp 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: 36.6098, -85.1487