How do I access Nancy Ward?

Nancy Ward is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Nancy Ward?

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

What amenities are at Nancy Ward?

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

When is the best time to visit Nancy Ward?

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

What are the water conditions at Nancy Ward?

Water conditions at Nancy Ward include mild current.

Is Nancy Ward good for beginners?

Yes, Nancy Ward 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 black swan swimming in a large body of water

Photo by Barbara Burgess on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingKayak Launch

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Nancy Ward

Benton, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Nancy Ward is a public boat ramp on Ocoee River near Benton, 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

Launch into Ocoee River near Benton, Tennessee. Beginner level with mild current water.

Nancy Ward is a public launch site on Ocoee River in Tennessee, serving as a popular put-in for paddlers exploring this section of the river.

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 Benton, Nancy Ward is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Benton area.

Paddling Tips

•River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
•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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Nancy Ward?: Nancy Ward is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Nancy Ward?: Nancy Ward supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Nancy Ward?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, kayak launch. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Nancy Ward?: The best time to paddle at Nancy Ward is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Nancy Ward?: Water conditions at Nancy Ward include mild current.
Is Nancy Ward good for beginners?: Yes, Nancy Ward 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: 35.1643, -84.6784