How do I access Smith's Branch?

Smith's Branch is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Smith's Branch?

Smith's Branch 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 Smith's Branch?

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

When is the best time to visit Smith's Branch?

The best time to paddle at Smith's Branch is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Smith's Branch?

Water conditions at Smith's Branch include calm, sheltered.

Is Smith's Branch good for beginners?

Yes, Smith's Branch 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.

green trees beside body of water during daytime

Photo by Susanne Alexander on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingKayak Launch

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Smith's Branch

Clarksville, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Smith's Branch is a public boat ramp on Cumberland River - Lake Barkley near Clarksville, Tennessee. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, kayak launch. 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

Limited

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

About This Location

Smith's Branch offers lake paddling on Cumberland River - Lake Barkley in Tennessee. Located near Clarksville.

Lake paddlers in Tennessee will appreciate Smith's Branch, which offers direct access to Cumberland River - Lake Barkley and its surrounding waters.

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 kayak launch.

Getting here from Clarksville takes about 5 min, putting Smith's Branch within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Smith's Branch 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 Smith's Branch?: Smith's Branch is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Smith's Branch?: Smith's Branch 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 Smith's Branch?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, kayak launch. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Smith's Branch?: The best time to paddle at Smith's Branch is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Smith's Branch?: Water conditions at Smith's Branch include calm, sheltered.
Is Smith's Branch good for beginners?: Yes, Smith's Branch 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: 36.4865, -87.4363