Boating At Lake Barkley In Tennessee

Free Public Boating & Watersport Activities

Lake Barkley, located in western Tennessee, is a stunning reservoir that spans into neighboring Kentucky. Situated along the Cumberland River, this picturesque lake offers a serene escape amidst the rolling hills and lush forests of the region. Its proximity to Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, a vast wilderness with hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and historical sites, makes it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Boating is a favorite pastime at Lake Barkley, with its vast expanse of clear blue waters inviting boaters to explore and enjoy the scenic surroundings. From leisurely cruises to thrilling water sports, the lake offers opportunities for a wide range of boating experiences.

Several marinas dot the shoreline of Lake Barkley, providing boaters with convenient access to various amenities and services. From boat rentals and fueling stations to boat repairs and equipment, the marinas cater to the needs of both seasoned boaters and newcomers to the lake.

Water sports enthusiasts will find plenty of excitement at Lake Barkley, with water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing being popular choices for those seeking adventure on the water.

For those bringing their own boats, Lake Barkley features well-maintained boat launch ramps scattered around the lake, ensuring easy access to the water and a smooth start to a day of boating fun.

The boating season at Lake Barkley typically runs from spring to late fall, offering ample time for visitors to make the most of their boating experiences throughout the warmer months.

Fishing is another highlight of Lake Barkley, with anglers coming from near and far to try their luck at catching the lake's abundant fish species, including bass, crappie, catfish, and more.

While camping opportunities may not be directly on the lake, nearby campgrounds and recreational areas allow visitors to extend their stay and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding natural landscapes after a day of boating and fishing adventures.

Boating, camping and fishing.

With only a third of this great boating lake in the state of TN, Lake Barkley provides excellent water sports and fishing in northwest Tennessee. This 58,000-acre lake in Kentucky and Tennessee is split by the northern border of TN, just north of Dover. Boat launch ramps, marinas, shopping, camping, dining, rental boats and lodging are all easily accessible around the lake. Barkley Lake has a long-standing reputation as an excellent fishery, especially for bass. Considered one of the best bass lakes in the southeast US. In addition, this is an excellent crappie lake, considered by many as one of the best in the country. Catfish, white bass, stripers, sunfish, paddlefish, walleye and sauger also roam these waters in bragging size schools.

Area Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Camping

Bumpus Mills Campground - 931 232-8831

Gatlin Point Self Service Campground - 270 924-2000

LBL Whispering Pines Campground & Cabins - 931 232-4570

Barkley Lake Map

Fishing

Fish species found in Lake Barkley include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, blue catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, bluegill, redear sunfish, warmouth, white bass, yellow bass, striped bass, hybrid striped bass, paddlefish and sauger.

Largemouth bass Smallmouth bass Spotted bass Channel catfish Flathead catfish Blue catfish Black crappie White crappie Walleye Redear Sunfish Warmouth Sunfish White Bass Yellow Bass Striped bass Hybrid Striped Bass Paddlefish Sauger