How do I access Raccoon Mountain?

Raccoon Mountain is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Raccoon Mountain?

Raccoon Mountain supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

When is the best time to visit Raccoon Mountain?

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

What are the water conditions at Raccoon Mountain?

Water conditions at Raccoon Mountain include calm, sheltered.

Is Raccoon Mountain good for beginners?

Yes, Raccoon Mountain 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 RampParkingRestroomsDockFishing PierKayak LaunchADA AccessibleLighting

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Raccoon Mountain

Whiteside, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Raccoon Mountain is a public boat ramp on Tennessee River - Nickajack Lake near Whiteside, 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

Public launch on Tennessee River - Nickajack Lake in Tennessee. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Whiteside.

Paddlers visiting Tennessee River - Nickajack Lake in Tennessee can launch from Raccoon Mountain, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

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.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and dock and fishing pier and kayak launch and ada accessible and lighting.

Getting here from Whiteside takes about 5 min, putting Raccoon Mountain within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Raccoon Mountain 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 Raccoon Mountain?: Raccoon Mountain is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Raccoon Mountain?: Raccoon Mountain 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 Raccoon Mountain?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock, fishing pier, kayak launch, ada accessible, lighting. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Raccoon Mountain?: The best time to paddle at Raccoon Mountain is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Raccoon Mountain?: Water conditions at Raccoon Mountain include calm, sheltered.
Is Raccoon Mountain good for beginners?: Yes, Raccoon Mountain 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: 35.0598, -85.4168