Boat Ramps In Oregon: Open Or Closed?

Oregon's boat ramps and marinas are a haven for water enthusiasts and boating aficionados, offering easy access to breathtaking natural landscapes and scenic rivers. With a range of public and private boat ramps across the state, Oregon provides ample opportunities for recreational activities and exploration. From the Willamette River in Oregon City to the Columbia River in Portland, these facilities cater to both motorized and non-motorized watercraft, ensuring safe launches and convenient mooring options.

Boat ramps in Oregon: permits and licenses

Boat ramps in Oregon are open to the public, and there are several boat ramps and marinas in Oregon City, nestled along the scenic Willamette River. Before using a boat ramp, however, it is important to ensure that you have the necessary permits and licenses. The requirements for boating permits and licenses in Oregon depend on the type of craft and its intended use.

For non-motorized boats, including paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, and other watercraft, a Waterway Access Permit is required if the boat is 10 feet or longer. This permit can be purchased for one week, one year, or two years, with fees ranging from $7 for a 7-day permit to $32 for a 2-year permit. The permit is transferable between non-motorized watercraft, and children under the age of 13 are exempt from this requirement.

Motorized vessels, on the other hand, require title and registration, regardless of their length. Sailboats over 12 feet in length must also be titled and registered in Oregon. If you are bringing a sailboat from out of state, you will need an Out-of-State Aquatic Invasive Species Permit.

The Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Program, established by the Oregon Legislature, aims to keep Oregon's waterways free of destructive invasive species such as zebra and quagga mussels. The purchase of waterway access or aquatic invasive species permits helps support this important program.

In addition to the standard permit requirements, it is worth noting that there may be specific rules and regulations for individual boat ramps and waterways in Oregon. These rules are often posted on educational and rule-related signage at the boat ramps and should be followed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

Boat ramps in Portland, Oregon

Willamette Park Boat Ramp and Dock

This boat ramp is open from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Parking is available but requires payment and no overnight parking is allowed. Only active boat loading and unloading are permitted with a 1-hour maximum on wings. No overnight moorage is available.

Cathedral Park Boat Ramp and Dock

The boat ramp at Cathedral Park is open from 5:00 a.m. to midnight. No overnight parking is allowed, and only active boat loading and unloading are permitted with a 1-hour maximum on wings. No overnight moorage is available at this location.

M. James Gleason Memorial Boat Ramp

The M. James Gleason Memorial Boat Ramp is a convenient public launch on the Columbia River, just minutes from downtown Portland.

Chinook Landing Marine Park

Chinook Landing, located on the Columbia River, is one of Oregon's largest public boating facilities, featuring six launching lanes.

Sauvie Island Boat Ramp

The Sauvie Island Boat Ramp offers a tranquil setting on the Multnomah Channel, providing an opportunity to enjoy the quiet waters and wildlife of the area.

Boat ramps in Eugene, Oregon

There are several boat ramps in and around Eugene, Oregon, that provide access to the water for boating and other activities. Here is some information on a few of them:

Signal Point Boat Ramp

This boat ramp is located in Eugene, although further details are unavailable as my sources are outdated.

Alton Baker Park Ramp

Located at 699 Day Island Road, Eugene, OR 97401, this boat ramp provides access to the Willamette River. The park also offers other recreational opportunities, such as walking and biking trails, sports fields, and picnic areas.

Fern Ridge Lake Marina

Although not directly in Eugene, this marina is a short drive west of the city. It offers a recently renovated marina with boat rentals and launches. The lake is known for its favourable sailing conditions due to its northerly winds.

Columbia River at Umatilla National Wildlife Refuge Ramp

This boat ramp is located at 1289 Winery Lane, Eugene, OR 97404, and provides access to the Columbia River. The Umatilla National Wildlife Refuge surrounds the river in this area, offering a unique boating experience in a natural setting.

Dorena Lake and Dexter Lake Marinas

These two marinas are located in Cottage Grove and Lowell, respectively, and offer additional boating opportunities near Eugene. They provide boat launches and other amenities for a day on the water.

Boat ramps in Oregon: mooring and parking

Boat ramps in Oregon provide access to beautiful natural landscapes and scenic waterways, making them highly sought-after amenities for locals and visitors alike. Here is some essential information about mooring and parking at these boat ramps.

Mooring

When it comes to mooring your boat at Oregon's ramps, it's important to be aware of the rules and regulations that are in place to ensure safe and efficient use for everyone. Most boat ramps in Oregon offer both launching and mooring facilities for watercraft and vessels. However, it's always a good idea to check ahead with the specific ramp or dock you plan to use, as some may have different rules and restrictions.

Some boat ramps, such as the Willamette Park Boat Ramp and Dock, Cathedral Park Boat Ramp and Dock, and Sellwood Riverfront Dock in Portland, have specific time restrictions and do not allow overnight mooring. Other ramps, like the Gov Tom McCall Waterfront Park North and South Breakwater Docks, may offer overnight moorage with proper payment or a permit.

Parking

Parking options can vary depending on the boat ramp you choose in Oregon. Some ramps, like the Willamette Park Boat Ramp, have pay-to-park options available, but they do not allow overnight parking. Other ramps, such as the Cathedral Park Boat Ramp and the Sellwood Riverfront Dock, also offer parking during specific hours but do not permit overnight parking.

It's important to note that not all boat ramps have on-site parking available. For example, the Gov Tom McCall Waterfront Park North and South Breakwater Docks in Portland do not provide on-site parking, so you'll need to make alternative arrangements if you plan to use those facilities.

Boat Ramps and Launches

Oregon offers a variety of boat ramps and launches to accommodate different types of watercraft. For instance, the Clackamette Boat Ramp in Oregon City is specifically designed for foot and carry-down traffic like canoes, paddleboards, and kayaks, while motorized vehicles and boat trailers are not permitted. On the other hand, the Sportscraft Boat Ramp, also in Oregon City, provides a two-lane boat dock suitable for various watercraft.

Additionally, Oregon has several public boat ramps, such as the Jon Storm Dock in Jon Storm Park, which offers a range of amenities, including a picnic shelter, public restrooms, a marina store, and a fuel dock. Another example is the Chinook Landing Marine Park, one of Oregon's largest public boating facilities, featuring six launching lanes on the Columbia River.

In conclusion, Oregon's boat ramps provide excellent opportunities for water enthusiasts to explore the state's breathtaking natural environments. By familiarising yourself with the mooring and parking regulations at these ramps, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water. Remember to always follow safety guidelines and respect the natural surroundings.

Boat ramps in Oregon: safety and rules

Boat ramps in Oregon provide access to beautiful natural landscapes and scenic waterways. With many recreational opportunities, these facilities are sought-after by individuals seeking an active lifestyle and a connection to nature.

Where to Find Boat Ramps in Oregon

There are numerous boat ramps located throughout Oregon, providing access to various lakes, rivers, and waterways. Some of the most well-known boat ramps include:

• M. James Gleason Memorial Boat Ramp: A convenient public launch on the Columbia River, just minutes from downtown Portland.
• Chinook Landing Marine Park: One of Oregon's largest public boating facilities, with six launching lanes on the Columbia River.
• Willamette Park Boat Ramp and Dock: Located in Portland, this boat ramp is open from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and offers pay-to-park options but no overnight parking.
• Jon Storm Dock: Located in Oregon City, this dock offers amenities such as a picnic shelter, public restrooms, a marina store, and a fuel dock.
• Big Eddy Marina: Located in Portland, this marina provides access to the Columbia River.
• Alton Baker Park: This boat ramp is situated in Eugene, Oregon, and offers trailer access for launching boats.

Safety and Rules

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all, it is important to follow certain rules and regulations when using boat ramps and docks in Oregon. Here are some key safety guidelines:

• Life jackets are essential for everyone on board a boat.
• Observe slow and no-wake zones, especially within 100 feet of docks and other structures in the water.
• Be mindful of seasonal pass-through zones, such as the area between Hawthorne Bridge and Waverly Marina, where speed reduction is not required from May 1 to September 30 each year.
• Maintain a safe distance from docks when engaging in towed water sports like water skiing and wakeboarding. You must be 100 feet from docks for water skiing and 200 feet for wakeboarding.
• Ensure you have the necessary boating permits and licenses for your craft and intended location. Oregon-tagged and out-of-state non-motorized crafts 10 feet or longer require a Waterway Access Permit.
• Follow parking rules at the boat ramps and docks, including any time restrictions and prohibited areas for parking and moorage.
• Only use docking areas marked for recreational use. Commercial docks are not permitted for non-commercial vessels.
• Be mindful of signage at the boat ramps and docks, which provide important information and rules in multiple languages.

Frequently asked questions