Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Watauga Lakeshores Marina
Watauga Lakeshores Marina is a public boat ramp on Watauga River - Watauga Lake near Elizabethton, 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
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Fee
Yes
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
Watauga Lakeshores Marina offers lake paddling on Watauga River - Watauga Lake in Tennessee. Located near Elizabethton.
Lake paddlers in Tennessee will appreciate Watauga Lakeshores Marina, which offers direct access to Watauga River - Watauga Lake and its surrounding waters.
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.
You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and dock and camping and kayak launch and ada accessible and lighting and concessions.
Located about 10 min from Elizabethton, Watauga Lakeshores Marina is a convenient option for Elizabethton-area paddlers.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make Watauga Lakeshores Marina ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
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 Watauga Lakeshores Marina?
- Watauga Lakeshores Marina is a public boat ramp in Tennessee. The entrance fee is Yes.
- What activities are available at Watauga Lakeshores Marina?
- Watauga Lakeshores Marina 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 Watauga Lakeshores Marina?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock, camping, kayak launch, ada accessible, lighting, concessions. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Watauga Lakeshores Marina?
- The best time to paddle at Watauga Lakeshores Marina is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at Watauga Lakeshores Marina?
- Water conditions at Watauga Lakeshores Marina include calm, sheltered.
- Is Watauga Lakeshores Marina good for beginners?
- Yes, Watauga Lakeshores Marina 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: 36.3125, -82.0985
Quick Facts
- State
- Tennessee
- Region
- Southeast
- Getting There
- ~10 min from Elizabethton
36.3125, -82.0985
Best Paddling in Tennessee
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Paddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
More Paddling on Watauga Lake
2 other launches on this water body
Nearby Paddling
Watauga Dam
Tennessee · 1.2 mi
Rat Branch
Tennessee · 1.3 mi
Fish Springs Marina
Tennessee · 1.9 mi

Wilbur Dam Access
Tennessee · 2.5 mi
Cove Ridge Yacht Club and Marina
Tennessee · 3.6 mi
Mallard Cove Road
Tennessee · 4.2 mi