How do I access Lick Creek?

Lick Creek is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Lick Creek?

Lick Creek 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 Lick Creek?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock, fishing pier, ada accessible, lighting. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Lick Creek?

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

What are the water conditions at Lick Creek?

Water conditions at Lick Creek include calm, sheltered.

Is Lick Creek good for beginners?

Yes, Lick Creek 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 river running through a lush green forest

Photo by Gigin Krishnan on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsDockFishing PierADA AccessibleLighting

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Lick Creek

Dover, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Lick Creek is a public boat ramp on Cumberland River - Lake Barkley near Dover, 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

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

Launch into Cumberland River - Lake Barkley near Dover, Tennessee. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

Lick Creek is a public access point on Cumberland River - Lake Barkley 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. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and dock and fishing pier and ada accessible and lighting.

Lick Creek sits about 5 min from Dover, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

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 Lick Creek?: Lick Creek is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Lick Creek?: Lick Creek 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 Lick Creek?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock, fishing pier, ada accessible, lighting. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Lick Creek?: The best time to paddle at Lick Creek is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Lick Creek?: Water conditions at Lick Creek include calm, sheltered.
Is Lick Creek good for beginners?: Yes, Lick Creek 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: 36.4897, -87.8152