How do I access Highway 53 Bridge?

Highway 53 Bridge is a public boat ramp in Arkansas. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Highway 53 Bridge?

Highway 53 Bridge supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Highway 53 Bridge?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Highway 53 Bridge?

The best time to paddle at Highway 53 Bridge is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Highway 53 Bridge?

Water conditions at Highway 53 Bridge include mild current.

Is Highway 53 Bridge good for beginners?

Yes, Highway 53 Bridge is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Boat on a wide river with forested banks and bridge.

Photo by Alexander Holmes on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Highway 53 Bridge

Whelen Springs, AR · Boat Ramp · Public

Highway 53 Bridge is a public boat ramp on Little Missouri River near Whelen Springs, Arkansas. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

River access at Highway 53 Bridge near Whelen Springs, Arkansas. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Highway 53 Bridge offers access to Little Missouri River in Arkansas. This stretch of river draws paddlers looking for mild current conditions.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

Expect mild current conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Highway 53 Bridge sits about 5 min from Whelen Springs, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

Paddling Tips

•Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
•Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
•Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
•Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Highway 53 Bridge?: Highway 53 Bridge is a public boat ramp in Arkansas. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Highway 53 Bridge?: Highway 53 Bridge supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Highway 53 Bridge?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Highway 53 Bridge?: The best time to paddle at Highway 53 Bridge is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Highway 53 Bridge?: Water conditions at Highway 53 Bridge include mild current.
Is Highway 53 Bridge good for beginners?: Yes, Highway 53 Bridge is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 33.8157, -93.1399