How do I access Pillow State Historic Area?

Pillow State Historic Area is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Pillow State Historic Area?

Pillow State Historic Area supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Pillow State Historic Area?

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

When is the best time to visit Pillow State Historic Area?

The best time to paddle at Pillow State Historic Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Pillow State Historic Area?

Water conditions at Pillow State Historic Area include mild current, sheltered.

Is Pillow State Historic Area good for beginners?

Yes, Pillow State Historic Area is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

a large waterfall with lots of water running over it

Photo by Brice Cooper on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

CreekMild CurrentSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Pillow State Historic Area

Burlison, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Pillow State Historic Area is a public boat ramp on Cold Creek near Burlison, Tennessee. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Creek

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

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

About This Location

Pillow State Historic Area offers creek paddling on Cold Creek in Tennessee. Located near Burlison.

For a quieter experience on the water, Pillow State Historic Area in Tennessee puts you on Cold Creek with its gentle current.

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.

Water conditions are generally mild current and sheltered. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Burlison takes about 10 min, putting Pillow State Historic Area within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

Paddling Tips

•A shorter kayak or canoe (under 12 feet) handles creek turns more easily.
•Creek levels can rise quickly after rain — avoid paddling during or after storms.
•Bring bug spray — shaded creeks can have active mosquitoes.
•Go slow and enjoy the scenery — creeks offer some of the most intimate paddling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Pillow State Historic Area?: Pillow State Historic Area is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Pillow State Historic Area?: Pillow State Historic Area supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Pillow State Historic Area?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Pillow State Historic Area?: The best time to paddle at Pillow State Historic Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Pillow State Historic Area?: Water conditions at Pillow State Historic Area include mild current, sheltered.
Is Pillow State Historic Area good for beginners?: Yes, Pillow State Historic Area is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered 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: 35.6482, -89.8349