Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingKayak Launch

Best Time to Visit

Sugar Tree

Harriman, TN · Bank Access · Public

Sugar Tree is a public bank access on Little Emory River - Watts Bar Lake near Harriman, 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

Bank Access

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

Sugar Tree offers lake paddling on Little Emory River - Watts Bar Lake in Tennessee. Located near Harriman.

Lake paddlers in Tennessee will appreciate Sugar Tree, which offers direct access to Little Emory River - Watts Bar Lake and its surrounding waters.

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.

You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and kayak launch.

Located about 5 min from Harriman, Sugar Tree is a convenient option for Harriman-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Paddling Tips

  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
  • 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Sugar Tree?
Sugar Tree is a public bank access in Tennessee. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Sugar Tree?
Sugar Tree 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 Sugar Tree?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, kayak launch. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Sugar Tree?
The best time to paddle at Sugar Tree is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Sugar Tree?
Water conditions at Sugar Tree include calm, sheltered.
Is Sugar Tree good for beginners?
Yes, Sugar Tree 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: 35.9031, -84.4802

Quick Facts

Region
Southeast
Getting There
~5 min from Harriman
Get Directions

35.9031, -84.4802

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