About this location
-
Water trailLewis River and Vancouver Lake
- Restrooms
-
Yes
- Parking Type
-
Gravel parking along the road shoulder. Approximately 10 spaces.
- Parking Fee
-
none
- Tidal influence
-
Tidal influence is moderate, but don't really impact launch conditions.
-
Launch TypeShore
- Launch Fees
-
None
Located just downstream of the Port of Ridgfield Boat Ramp, the Division Street/Ridgefield Shore Launch provides an alternative access to Lake River away from motorized boats. The site usually has a port-a-potty restroom set up. Users are asked to pay the daily launch fee. Tickets are available from the Boat Ramp.
The Port of Ridgefield is redeveloping the Lake River waterfront. Changes to this access site will likely occur at some point.
Environmental Notes:
The Ridgefield launches are very close to the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge, which offers views of wildlife such as great blue herons, river otters, osprey, bald eagles, and coyotes. Entering the refuge from a boat is strictly prohibited. In addition, paddlers are prohibited from paddling into Gee Creek (just outside the mouth of Lake River). This is part of Wildlife Refuge and is bordered by private property. For more details, go to the Friends of Ridgefield Wildlife Refuge website.
Safety Notes:
Downstream of Ridgefield, Lake River can be extremely busy during warm summer days and during fishing seasons. This heavy traffic can create significant wakes that may be annoying or problematic to some paddlers. At times of low water levels, it can be difficult to connect to the Columbia via Bachelor Island Slough. The head of the slough has filled in with sand and at low water levels this may require a long walk while dragging your boat.
Site owner
Port of Ridgefield
Address
Division Street
Ridgefield, WA 98642
United States
