How do I access Highway 18?

Highway 18 is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Highway 18?

Highway 18 supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Highway 18?

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

When is the best time to visit Highway 18?

The best time to paddle at Highway 18 is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Highway 18?

Water conditions at Highway 18 include mild current.

Is Highway 18 good for beginners?

Yes, Highway 18 is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

a red kayak sitting on top of a lake next to a fallen tree

Photo by Barbara Burgess on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingKayak Launch

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Highway 18

Bolivar, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Highway 18 is a public boat ramp on Hatchie River near Bolivar, Tennessee. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, kayak launch. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Free

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

Highway 18 offers river paddling on Hatchie River in Tennessee. Located near Bolivar.

Located in Tennessee, Highway 18 puts you on Hatchie River with room to explore upstream or downstream from the launch.

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. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

Conditions here tend to be mild current, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and kayak launch.

At about 5 min from Bolivar, Highway 18 is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Bolivar area.

Paddling Tips

•Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
•Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
•Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
•Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Highway 18?: Highway 18 is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Highway 18?: Highway 18 supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Highway 18?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, kayak launch. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Highway 18?: The best time to paddle at Highway 18 is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Highway 18?: Water conditions at Highway 18 include mild current.
Is Highway 18 good for beginners?: Yes, Highway 18 is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 35.2812, -88.9739