How do I access Starkey?

Starkey is a public boat ramp in Arkansas. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Starkey?

Starkey supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Starkey?

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

When is the best time to visit Starkey?

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

What are the water conditions at Starkey?

Water conditions at Starkey include calm, sheltered.

Is Starkey good for beginners?

Yes, Starkey is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

a view of a body of water with trees in the background

Photo by Yash Mannepalli on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Starkey

Garfield, AR · Boat Ramp · Public

Starkey is a public boat ramp on White River - Beaver Lake near Garfield, Arkansas. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Boat Ramp accessing White River - Beaver Lake near Garfield, Arkansas. calm and sheltered conditions.

Starkey provides shoreline access to White River - Beaver Lake in Arkansas, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

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

Starkey sits about 5 min from Garfield, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Starkey ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Starkey?: Starkey is a public boat ramp in Arkansas. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Starkey?: Starkey supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Starkey?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Starkey?: The best time to paddle at Starkey is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Starkey?: Water conditions at Starkey include calm, sheltered.
Is Starkey good for beginners?: Yes, Starkey is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 36.3935, -93.8728