8 Places
Boating & Marinas
Douglas Lake and the waterways around the Smokies offer excellent boating. Rent a pontoon, jet ski, or kayak and spend a day on the water.
Dandridge
Lakeside Resort & Marina + Cowboy's Bar & Grill
Scenic marina and bar with views
Sevierville
Mountain Cove Marina - Pontoon Rentals
Pontoon boat rentals on scenic lake
Sevierville
Mountain Cove Marina
Waterfront marina dining
Dandridge
Douglas Lake Marina Boat Rentals
Pontoon & Fishing Boat Rentals
Dandridge
Smoky Mountain H2O Sports
Boat & Jet Ski Rentals on Douglas Lake
Dandridge
Mountain Harbor Inn Marina
Boat Rentals on Douglas Lake
Dandridge
Vet Adventures Watercraft Rentals
Jet Skis & Party Boats for Fun
Dandridge
Lake Life Pontoon Rentals
Full & Half Day Pontoon Rentals
What to Know
Best Seasons
The boating season runs from spring through fall, with summer the peak for swimming, tubing, and pontoon cruising. Water levels on Douglas Lake drop in late fall by design, so call ahead about ramp access in the off season.
What to Bring
Swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, water shoes, and plenty of drinking water for a day in the sun. Most rentals provide life jackets, which are required. Bring a cooler if the operator allows it, and cash for fuel and tips.
Choosing Your Day on the Lake
For a Relaxed Family Day
Rent a pontoon. It is the easygoing choice with room to cruise, anchor in a quiet cove to swim, and spread out a picnic. It suits mixed groups and all ages better than anything else on the water.
For a Thrill
Jet ski rentals deliver the fast, splashy fun on the open lake. They are the choice for older kids and adults who want speed rather than a slow cruise, available by the hour at several marinas.
For Your Own Boat
If you are trailering a boat, the full service marinas offer launch ramps, slips, and fuel. Check ramp conditions ahead in the off season, when Douglas Lake levels are lowered.
Tips and Getting There
Insider Tips
- Reserve pontoons and jet skis well ahead for summer weekends. The fleets are limited and book out quickly in peak season.
- Douglas Lake levels are drawn down in late fall, which can limit ramp access, so call the marina before an off season trip.
- A pontoon is the best pick for a mixed group, with room to cruise, swim, and picnic at an easy pace that works for all ages.
Getting There and Parking
The marinas sit on the lakes north and east of the mountains, mainly Douglas Lake near Sevierville and Dandridge. From Pigeon Forge cabins it is a short drive up toward Sevierville. Follow the marina directions, as lake roads can be winding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I rent a boat near the Smokies?
Do I need a boating license?
What kind of boat is best for families?
Should I reserve ahead?
Is the lake always full?
Are life jackets provided?
Vantage Stays · Smoky Mountain Guide
Boating & Marinas
Boat rentals and marinas on Douglas Lake and near the Smoky Mountains. Pontoons, jet skis, kayaks, and lakefront fun.
Scan for live
hours & details
What to Know
Best Seasons
The boating season runs from spring through fall, with summer the peak for swimming, tubing, and pontoon cruising. Water levels on Douglas Lake drop in late fall by design, so call ahead about ramp access in the off season.
What to Bring
Swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, water shoes, and plenty of drinking water for a day in the sun. Most rentals provide life jackets, which are required. Bring a cooler if the operator allows it, and cash for fuel and tips.
The Checklist
| Place | Rating | Hours | Phone | Address | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dandridge | |||||
| Lakeside Resort & Marina + Cowboy's Bar & Grill | 4.5 ★ | See Website | (865) 397-2822 | 1435 TN-139, Dandridge, TN 37725 | |
| Douglas Lake Marina Boat Rentals | 4.6 ★ | Daily 8am-6pm (seasonal) | (865) 397-3141 | 1170 TN-139, Dandridge, TN 37725 | |
| Smoky Mountain H2O Sports | 4.5 ★ | Daily 9am-6pm (seasonal) | (865) 397-1800 | Douglas Lake, Dandridge, TN | |
| Mountain Harbor Inn Marina | 4.4 ★ | Daily 8am-6pm (seasonal) | (865) 397-1313 | Dandridge, TN | |
| Vet Adventures Watercraft Rentals | 4.5 ★ | Daily 9am-6pm (seasonal) | Douglas Lake, TN | ||
| Lake Life Pontoon Rentals | 4.4 ★ | Daily 9am-6pm (seasonal) | Douglas Lake area, TN | ||
| Sevierville | |||||
| Mountain Cove Marina - Pontoon Rentals | 4.6 ★ | See Website | (865) 428-5070 | 1590 Dyke Rd, Sevierville, TN 37876 | |
| Mountain Cove Marina | 4.6 ★ | Sevierville, TN | |||
Picking the Right One for Your Group
For a Relaxed Family Day
Rent a pontoon. It is the easygoing choice with room to cruise, anchor in a quiet cove to swim, and spread out a picnic. It suits mixed groups and all ages better than anything else on the water.
For a Thrill
Jet ski rentals deliver the fast, splashy fun on the open lake. They are the choice for older kids and adults who want speed rather than a slow cruise, available by the hour at several marinas.
For Your Own Boat
If you are trailering a boat, the full service marinas offer launch ramps, slips, and fuel. Check ramp conditions ahead in the off season, when Douglas Lake levels are lowered.
Insider Tips
- Reserve pontoons and jet skis well ahead for summer weekends. The fleets are limited and book out quickly in peak season.
- Douglas Lake levels are drawn down in late fall, which can limit ramp access, so call the marina before an off season trip.
- A pontoon is the best pick for a mixed group, with room to cruise, swim, and picnic at an easy pace that works for all ages.