How do I access Refuge Ramp #3?

Refuge Ramp #3 is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Refuge Ramp #3?

Refuge Ramp #3 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 Refuge Ramp #3?

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

When is the best time to visit Refuge Ramp #3?

The best time to paddle at Refuge Ramp #3 is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Refuge Ramp #3?

Water conditions at Refuge Ramp #3 include calm, sheltered.

Is Refuge Ramp #3 good for beginners?

Yes, Refuge Ramp #3 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 RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Refuge Ramp #3

Indian Mound, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Refuge Ramp #3 is a public boat ramp on South Cross Creek - Lake Barkley near Indian Mound, 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

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 South Cross Creek - Lake Barkley in Tennessee. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Indian Mound.

Paddlers visiting South Cross Creek - Lake Barkley in Tennessee can launch from Refuge Ramp #3, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

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 Indian Mound, Refuge Ramp #3 is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Indian Mound area.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Refuge Ramp #3 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 Refuge Ramp #3?: Refuge Ramp #3 is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Refuge Ramp #3?: Refuge Ramp #3 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 Refuge Ramp #3?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Refuge Ramp #3?: The best time to paddle at Refuge Ramp #3 is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Refuge Ramp #3?: Water conditions at Refuge Ramp #3 include calm, sheltered.
Is Refuge Ramp #3 good for beginners?: Yes, Refuge Ramp #3 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: 36.4512, -87.7498