Boat Launch Times At Smithville Lake

Smithville Lake in Missouri offers five multi-lane boat ramps for quick access to the lake. The Sailboat Cove ramp is intended for non-motorized boats, while the cove's ramp north of the parking lot can be used for larger sailboats. The Little Platte boat ramp is easily accessed from Highway 169 and serves the west side of the lake. The Crow's Creek boat ramp is located near the Crow's Creek Campground off Hardesty Road, and the Route W boat multi-ramp can be found on the north side of Missouri Route W. Visitors can also launch from the Camp Branch Marina, Crows Creek Boat Launch, Missouri W Boat Launch, and Paradise Pointe Marina.

Multi-lane boat ramps

Smithville Lake, Missouri, has five multi-lane boat ramp locations, providing a wide range of boating activity options. Here are the details for each of these multi-lane boat ramps:

Route W Boat Multi-Ramp

This multi-lane boat ramp is located on the north side of Missouri Route W, 1.5 miles east of U.S. Highway 169.

Sailboat Cove

Sailboat Cove has smaller ramps off Route W on Paradise Road intended for non-motorized boat launches. For larger sailboats, there is a ramp north of the parking lot.

Little Platte Boat Ramp

The Little Platte boat ramp is located off Northeast 180th Street near Missouri Route F. It serves the west side of Smithville Lake and is easily accessible from Highway 169.

Crow's Creek Boat Ramp

The Crow's Creek boat ramp can be found near Crow's Creek Campground off Hardesty Road, close to Missouri Route E.

Dennis Dyer Municipal Harbor Public Boat Ramp

Although not specifically mentioned as being at Smithville Lake, the Dennis Dyer Municipal Harbor Public Boat Ramp in Port Aransas is another example of a multi-lane boat ramp. It is wide with ample parking and a good grade for launching a variety of boat sizes.

Sailboat Cove's smaller ramps

Smithville Lake offers five multi-lane boat ramp locations, providing easy access to a wide range of boating activities.

The Sailboat Cove smaller ramps are ideal for those seeking a quieter and more intimate boating experience. These ramps are typically less busy than those intended for larger, motorized boats, offering a more tranquil entry to the lake.

For those with larger sailboats, there is a dedicated ramp located north of the parking lot at Sailboat Cove. This ramp can accommodate the larger vessels and provides direct access to the lake for more substantial watercraft.

The Sailboat Cove smaller ramps are a great option for those looking to explore Smithville Lake at a slower pace and take in the natural surroundings as they paddle or row. These ramps offer a convenient and accessible way to get out on the water without the need for a motor.

Little Platte Park boat ramp

The boat ramp provides access to Little Platte Lake, a 1000-acre inland lake in Benzie County, Michigan, known for its clear waters and abundant fish. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) permits the use of motorized boats, canoes, kayaks, and other non-motorized watercraft on the lake. However, it is not suitable for long-shaft, large horsepower motorboats due to its shallow waters and the amount of silt and muck.

The Little Platte Lake boat ramp is approximately 14 feet wide and made of concrete. While there are no restrictions on boat horsepower or size, the DNR recommends that all boaters wear life jackets and follow safe boating practices. It is always advisable to check with local authorities before launching your boat, as there may be local regulations or restrictions in place.

Little Platte Lake is an excellent location for boating, fishing, and enjoying nature. The lake is adjacent to a large cedar swamp and a slow-moving stream, making it ideal for kayaks, canoes, and small fishing boats. The area is also known for its diverse bird population, including eagles, loons, ducks, herons, and kingfishers.

Camp Branch Marina

The other four boat ramps at Smithville Lake are:

• Little Platte Park
• Route W
• Sailboat Cove
• Crow's Creek

The Route W boat multi-ramp is located on the north side of Missouri Route W, 1.5 miles east of U.S. Highway 169. Sailboat Cove's smaller ramps off Route W on Paradise Road are intended for non-motorized boat launches. The Little Platte boat ramp is off Northeast 180th Street near Missouri Route F. It serves the west side of the lake and is easily accessed from Highway 169. The Crow's Creek boat ramp is located near Crow's Creek Campground off Hardesty Road near Missouri Route E.

Paradise Pointe Marina

The Little Platte boat ramp is another boat ramp located off Northeast 180th Street near Missouri Route F. It is easily accessible from Highway 169 and serves the west side of the lake.

Sailboat Cove's smaller ramps off Route W on Paradise Road are intended for non-motorized boat launches. For larger sailboats, head to the cove's ramp north of the parking lot.

For those looking for a quieter experience, consider putting your canoe or small boat in at Highway W on the west side of the lake and paddling north. This area sees fewer power boaters, and water skiing is prohibited north of the bridge. Additionally, the semi-submerged trees deter wave runners.

If you're looking for a unique experience, check out Ducks Head for a river experience.

Frequently asked questions