Accessible Paddling

  • A woman in a life vest sits in a yellow kayak, using a launch mechanism on a dock by a lake. She appears focused, with green trees and cloudy skies in the background.
    • several people using accessibility canoes to paddle in a lake

    Accessible Paddling Launches

    Nothing compares to experiencing the world on water.

    Tennessee State Parks has installed accessible paddling launches in several of our parks to help make paddling more accessible for people with disabilities, including those in wheelchairs or with limited mobility. Each launch is fitted with features that make entering and exiting a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboards easier, including a tiered transition bench, roll cage with overhead grab bars, hand straps, and pull bars to enter the water. 

    Tennessee State Parks knows that providing accessible experiences goes beyond just paving a trail. Our lakes, rivers, and streams are preserved to provide joy for everyone. As part of our goal to ensure access for everyone, we have been busy installing accessible paddling launches for kayaks and canoes to help make paddling more accessible for everyone. 

    Accessible Launches at Tennessee State Parks

    Watch this video for more information.

    "People can come here even if they’ve never kayaked before. And try it, and with the assistance of others, or by themselves, or with a ranger."

    - Carly, Knox County ADA Coordinator.

    Parks With Accessible Paddling Launches

    • Booker T. Washington State Park

      Seasonally available to visitors from May through September on Chickamauga Lake when water levels are high.

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    • David Crockett State Park

      Available to visitors throughout the year on Lake Lindsey as water levels permit.

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    • Fall Creek Falls State Park

      Two paddling launches are available to visitors throughout the year on Fall Creek Lake. Accessible parking is available near each launch. 

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    • Indian Mountain State Park

      Available to visitors at the boat dock on Indian Mountain Lake. Accessible Parking is available at the launch.

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    • Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park

      Available to visitors throughout the year on Poplar Tree Lake. Accessible parking is available near the launch.

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    • Montgomery Bell State Park

      Available to visitors on Lake Acorn. Accessible parking is available at the top of the hill.

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    • Pickwick Landing State Park

      Available to visitors throughout the year on Pickwick Lake. Accessible parking is available at the launch.

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    • Reelfoot Lake State Park

      Available to visitors on Reelfoot Lake at Kirby Pocket. Accessible parking is available at the launch.

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    • Seven Islands State Birding Park

      Available to visitors on the French Broad River. Accessible parking is available at the launch. 

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    • Warriors' Path State Park

      Available to visitors throughout the year on Fort Patrick Henry Lake. Accessible parking is available at the launch. 

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    Parks with Accessible Features

    From wheelchair-accessible trails and picnic areas to accessible overnight accommodations and activities, we strive to ensure that everyone can enjoy the beauty of our parks without barriers. Click the link below to view parks with detailed accessibility information and start planning your next trip.

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