McKernan Creek Anchor Before Joe Wheeler State Park

We like anchoring in McKernan Creek!

After leaving Grand Harbor Marina, we made two anchorage stops before we got to Joe Wheeler State Park. The first, Little Bear Creek (above and below), was a new spot for us while our stay at McKernan Creek was our third time at anchor there. Both anchorages met with our satisfaction and provided a colorful and comfortable night on the hook.

On the move again early the next morning we passed the bridge at Florence, Alabama (below).

To get to McKernan Creek we had to lock through the Wilson Lock and Dam. At 110 feet high the Wilson Lock is the highest lock east of the Mississippi River and relatively easy to lock through. Cruising the Tennessee River during this fall’s Looper migration south brought back a lot of fond memories of our two previous trips south on the Tennessee River during our 1.75 Loops.

We had to wait a bit for the doors of the lock to open, this is the second to last lock we will go through before we get to Joe Wheeler. If you’ve never been in one of these big locks, the photos (below) will give you a reference and perspective as to their size. To tie up inside one of these huge locks for the first time can be a little intimidating but everyone gets used to them after a couple of lock-throughs.

McKernan Creek is always a fun stop. We find this creek well-protected if you can get far enough in. We always feel like we’re in a small lake and enjoy the many cottages that dot the shoreline. It was quiet all night and we feel lucky when one of the residents stops by in a kayak or small boat to say hi. Everyone we have met here has been very friendly.