Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsCampingKayak LaunchLightingConcessions

Best Time to Visit

Union County Dock

Sharps Chapel, TN · Bank Access · Public

Union County Dock is a public bank access on Powell River - Norris Lake near Sharps Chapel, Tennessee. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Bank Access

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Yes

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 Powell River - Norris Lake in Tennessee. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Sharps Chapel.

Paddlers visiting Powell River - Norris Lake in Tennessee can launch from Union County Dock, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

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 restrooms and camping and kayak launch and lighting and concessions.

Getting here from Sharps Chapel takes about 5 min, putting Union County Dock within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Union County Dock ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • 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.
  • Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Union County Dock?
Union County Dock is a public bank access in Tennessee. The entrance fee is Yes.
What activities are available at Union County Dock?
Union County Dock 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 Union County Dock?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, camping, kayak launch, lighting, concessions. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Union County Dock?
The best time to paddle at Union County Dock is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Union County Dock?
Water conditions at Union County Dock include calm, sheltered.
Is Union County Dock good for beginners?
Yes, Union County Dock 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: 36.4056, -83.8437

Quick Facts

Region
Southeast
Getting There
~5 min from Sharps Chapel
Get Directions

36.4056, -83.8437

Best Paddling in Tennessee

Read our complete guide →

Paddler Reviews

Write a Review

0/5,000 characters

Sign in to add photos to your review.

Trip Reports

Share a trip report

Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Union County Dock

Sign In

Paddle Routes from Here

No paddle routes from this location yet.

Be the first to create one!