How do I access Powerhouse Side?

Powerhouse Side is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Powerhouse Side?

Powerhouse Side 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 Powerhouse Side?

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

When is the best time to visit Powerhouse Side?

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

What are the water conditions at Powerhouse Side?

Water conditions at Powerhouse Side include calm, sheltered.

Is Powerhouse Side good for beginners?

Yes, Powerhouse Side 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.

person riding yellow kayak on river during daytime

Photo by Joshua J. Cotten on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsFish Cleaning StationKayak Launch

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Powerhouse Side

Carthage, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Powerhouse Side is a public boat ramp on Cumberland River - Old Hickory Lake near Carthage, 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

Boat Ramp accessing Cumberland River - Old Hickory Lake near Carthage, Tennessee. calm and sheltered conditions.

Powerhouse Side provides shoreline access to Cumberland River - Old Hickory Lake in Tennessee, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle. 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 fish cleaning station and kayak launch.

Powerhouse Side sits about 5 min from Carthage, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

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 Powerhouse Side?: Powerhouse Side is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Powerhouse Side?: Powerhouse Side 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 Powerhouse Side?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, fish cleaning station, kayak launch. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Powerhouse Side?: The best time to paddle at Powerhouse Side is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Powerhouse Side?: Water conditions at Powerhouse Side include calm, sheltered.
Is Powerhouse Side good for beginners?: Yes, Powerhouse Side 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: 36.2824, -85.9369