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Pates Ford Marina is a full-service boat access facility on Center Hill Lake in Smithville, DeKalb County, offering a convenient launch point for paddlers and boaters exploring the Caney Fork River system. The marina provides a boat ramp along with amenities including fuel service, slip rentals, boat rentals, and cabin accommodations—making it suitable for both day trips and extended stays. The facility is non-reservable and open to the public.
This location provides access to the scenic Center Hill Lake impoundment, ideal for kayakers and canoeists seeking calmer water conditions. The surrounding area offers dining options at the on-site restaurant and various recreational opportunities. Paddlers planning longer trips on the Caney Fork River should note that much of the river below the lake is private property; Long Branch Recreation Area at Center Hill Dam is the primary option for overnight camping on the river system.