How do I access Stark Knob?

Stark Knob is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Stark Knob?

Stark Knob 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 Stark Knob?

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

When is the best time to visit Stark Knob?

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

What are the water conditions at Stark Knob?

Water conditions at Stark Knob include calm, sheltered.

Is Stark Knob good for beginners?

Yes, Stark Knob 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.

a river running through a lush green forest

Photo by Gigin Krishnan on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingDockADA AccessibleLighting

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Stark Knob

Hendersonville, TN · Boat Ramp · Public

Stark Knob is a public boat ramp on Cumberland River - Old Hickory Lake near Hendersonville, Tennessee. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. 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 Hendersonville, Tennessee. calm and sheltered conditions.

Stark Knob provides shoreline access to Cumberland River - Old Hickory 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 and dock and ada accessible and lighting.

Getting here from Hendersonville takes about 5 min, putting Stark Knob within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

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 Stark Knob?: Stark Knob is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Stark Knob?: Stark Knob 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 Stark Knob?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, ada accessible, lighting. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Stark Knob?: The best time to paddle at Stark Knob is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Stark Knob?: Water conditions at Stark Knob include calm, sheltered.
Is Stark Knob good for beginners?: Yes, Stark Knob 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: 36.2817, -86.5754