Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Poor Valley
Poor Valley is a public bank access on Poor Valley Creek - Cherokee Lake near Mooresburg, Tennessee. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.
At a Glance
Water Body
Lake
Launch Type
Bank Access
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
Bank Access accessing Poor Valley Creek - Cherokee Lake near Mooresburg, Tennessee. calm and sheltered conditions.
Poor Valley provides shoreline access to Poor Valley Creek - Cherokee Lake in Tennessee, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.
This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.
Conditions here tend to be calm and sheltered, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
At about 5 min from Mooresburg, Poor Valley is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Mooresburg area.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make Poor Valley ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
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 Poor Valley?
- Poor Valley is a public bank access in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Poor Valley?
- Poor Valley 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 Poor Valley?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Poor Valley?
- The best time to paddle at Poor Valley is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at Poor Valley?
- Water conditions at Poor Valley include calm, sheltered.
- Is Poor Valley good for beginners?
- Yes, Poor Valley 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: 36.3418, -83.2051
Quick Facts
- State
- Tennessee
- Region
- Southeast
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Mooresburg
36.3418, -83.2051
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