Caney Creek Marina
Directly on the waterA large off-channel working marina up Caney Creek, gated and practical, with over 200 slips and a ship store that actually has what you need.
Caney Creek is a working marina that takes its infrastructure seriously. The slip count tops 200, gated access keeps the docks secure, and the pumpout stations are wireless and free, which is the kind of detail that matters to anyone running a multi-day cruise. The ship store is stocked as a real resource: ice, drinks, snacks, bait, water toys, and Caney Creek branded merchandise, with a staff that is consistently friendly and knowledgeable about the lake.
The off-channel location is the defining navigation fact. From the main lake at river mile 562.5, the run up Caney Creek is two miles. There is a fixed bridge with a 22-foot maximum vertical clearance; anything with significant air draft needs to check this before arrival. The marina monitors Channel 16 and can provide current depth and clearance information. Inside the creek, the water handling is easy and the cove is well-protected. Once you're in, you're in a calm marina with low wind exposure and quiet water.
Pontoon rentals are a significant part of the operation. Families and groups book them for full-day excursions; the boats are clean and adequately powered. Weekend availability requires a reservation, especially in summer. The on-site Oakley's restaurant and bar opens on weekends with a grill and live music. The catfish is the strongest order; food quality across the menu can vary, so order on the conservative side if you have not been before. The bar is beer-only with no liquor license, worth knowing if your party expects a full bar.
The marina is 3.3 miles from I-40 Exit 350 by land, which puts it within easy range of Rockwood, Harriman, and Kingston for supplies and services. Tuesday through Sunday operation, closed Mondays.
Tips
- Check bridge clearance before arrival: 22-foot maximum vertical clearance on the Caney Creek approach; call ahead or monitor Channel 16 for current conditions.
- Pumpout is free and wireless; no token required.
- Pontoon rentals book up fast on summer weekends; reserve in advance.
- The ship store is a real resource for lake supplies, ice, and snacks; it's worth stopping even if you don't have a slip.
- The weekend grill and bar hours are not uniform throughout the season; confirm food service before planning a meal stop.
What people love
- Friendly, knowledgeable staff willing to help with anything lake-related.
- The gated, secure slip arrangement with over 200 options.
- Free wireless pumpout at every dock.
- The pontoon rental experience: easy to book and affordable.
- The well-stocked ship store.
What to know
- The off-channel location requires a two-mile run up Caney Creek with a 22-foot bridge clearance limit; not appropriate for tall-mast vessels without verification.
- The bar operates beer-only; no liquor license.
- Food quality at the on-site restaurant is inconsistent; some visits are excellent, others disappointing. Confirm food service before making the trip specifically for a meal.
- The marina is closed on Mondays.
Best time
Weekday mornings and afternoons for a calm docking experience and attentive staff. Weekends bring the grill and music crowd. Spring and fall offer the marina's practical utility without summer congestion.
First visit
By water: look for river mile marker 562.5 on Watts Bar Lake and turn up Caney Creek. The two-mile run is marked; call Channel 16 to confirm bridge clearance before approaching. By land: take I-40 Exit 350 west on US 70 for approximately 4 miles.
With kids
Pontoon rentals with a full day on the lake are well-suited for families. The ship store has water toys and snacks. The weekend music and grill setup is family-friendly.
Location
Frequently asked
When is Caney Creek Marina open?
Open Tuesday through Sunday; closed Mondays. Weekend grill and bar hours are seasonal and vary; confirm food service before making the trip specifically for a meal.
Is Caney Creek Marina good for families with kids?
Pontoon rentals with a full day on the lake are well-suited for families. The ship store has water toys and snacks. The weekend music and grill setup is family-friendly.
How do I get to Caney Creek Marina?
By water: look for river mile marker 562.5 on Watts Bar Lake and turn up Caney Creek. The two-mile run is marked; call Channel 16 to confirm bridge clearance before approaching. By land: take I-40 Exit 350 west on US 70 for approximately 4 miles.
What should I know before visiting Caney Creek Marina?
The off-channel location requires a two-mile run up Caney Creek with a 22-foot bridge clearance limit; not appropriate for tall-mast vessels without verification.
Last updated: April 30, 2026