green and brown trees beside river during daytime
Photo by Michael S on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Smith Springs Creek

Antioch, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Smith Springs Creek is a public boat ramp on Stones River - J. Percy Priest Lake near Antioch, 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

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 Stones River - J. Percy Priest Lake near Antioch, Tennessee. calm and sheltered conditions.

Smith Springs Creek provides shoreline access to Stones River - J. Percy Priest Lake in Tennessee, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Antioch takes about 5 min, putting Smith Springs Creek within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Smith Springs Creek ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
  • 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Smith Springs Creek?
Smith Springs Creek is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Smith Springs Creek?
Smith Springs Creek 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 Springs Creek?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Smith Springs Creek?
The best time to paddle at Smith Springs Creek is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Smith Springs Creek?
Water conditions at Smith Springs Creek include calm, sheltered.
Is Smith Springs Creek good for beginners?
Yes, Smith Springs Creek 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: 36.0906, -86.6024

Quick Facts

Region
Southeast
Getting There
~5 min from Antioch
Get Directions

36.0906, -86.6024

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