Meeman-Shelby Paddling

Warning Alert
Warning

Road Closed Due to Erosion

Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park

Due to erosion issues, One Way Road, past the campground at Meeman-Shelby, is closed. Please don't try to access these areas for your safety.

Thank you for your patience and understanding. If you have any questions about your upcoming reservation, please call 1 (888) 867-2757.

  • Calm lake reflecting a forest with green and yellow foliage under a clear sky.
  • Three people canoeing on a calm river surrounded by trees.

    Paddling at Meeman-Shelby Forest

    Poplar Tree Lake is the perfect place to relax with a paddle.

    The park rents canoes, kayaks, tandem kayaks, and paddleboards, but you can also bring your own. Pedal boats are also available.  

    An accessible kayak ramp is available. The park offers Ranger-led canoe and pontoon boat tours. Check our Happenings section for these guided paddles and tours.

    Skip photo gallery
    Media Crowdriff

    Paddling Rental Information

    Boat rentals are cash or credit card.

    Kayak - Single: $10 hourly 
    Kayak - Tandem: $15 hourly 
    Paddleboard: $8 hourly 

     

    • Kayakers on a calm river at sunset, surrounded by silhouettes of trees.
    • Autumn trees reflected in a calm lake under a vibrant blue sky.

    Water Trail

    Poplar Tree Lake 

    GPS: 35.30717, -90.06601 

    Poplar Tree Lake is located in Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park in Shelby County, Millington, Tennessee. 

    Enjoy fishing and wildlife viewing in a serene park setting. Bald eagle sightings are not uncommon. Put in at the park boat launch ramp and follow the shoreline. Watch for motorboats at the widest or west end of the lake. Access into inlets on the southern side of the lake is determined by water levels. The lake may be difficult to navigate during periods of high wind. 

    Directions to Access Point

    From US-51S, follow the signs into the park then continue to the lake. The asphalt parking lot accommodates approximately 30 vehicles. The closest restroom is located at the Nature Center adjacent to the nearby picnic area. The park is closed from sunset to 8:00 AM. Boat rentals are available or launch your personal boat for a $2.00 fee. All TWRA fishing and boating rules apply. There is a separate fee for fishing.

    Visitor Center Gift Shop

    The Visitor Center Gift Shop is the perfect place to pick up a map, learn about the park, or find a souvenir. You’ll find an assortment of apparel and keepsakes to remember your trip to the park.

    Address:
    910 Riddick Road, Millington TN, 38053

    Hours: 
    Monday - Friday
    7:00 AM - 7:00 PM

    Saturday and Sunday
    7:00 AM - 6:00 PM 

    Happenings
    view of the bottom a rocky cliff with some trees