Big Bear Public Use Area

Big Bear Public Use Area is a well-developed boat launch on Kentucky Lake (Tennessee River) near Benton in Marshall County. The facility features a wide concrete ramp with two slips, a courtesy dock, vehicle and trailer parking, and restroom facilities—making it a convenient access point for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboaters. The site's amenities make it suitable for paddlers of varying experience levels launching onto this large, relatively calm reservoir.

Kentucky Lake is a major impoundment of the Tennessee River, offering expansive water for recreational use. Paddlers should note that as a large reservoir, conditions can vary depending on dam operations and weather. The nearby Clarks River National Wildlife Refuge provides additional paddling exploration opportunities in the region, and the site's proximity to other recreation areas makes it a good base for extended paddling trips. Check current water levels and dam release schedules before launching, as reservoir conditions can affect paddling safety and access.