Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Big Bend Resort
Big Bend Resort is a public boat ramp on Colorado River near Parker Dam, California. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall and winter.
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 Big Bend Resort near Parker Dam, California. Good for kayaking and canoeing.
Big Bend Resort offers access to Colorado River in California. 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. Western paddling spans coastal waters, mountain lakes, and everything in between.
Expect mild current conditions on the water. The best time to visit is Year-round. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
Big Bend Resort sits about 5 min from Parker Dam, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.
Paddling Tips
- •Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
- •River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
- •Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
- •Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Big Bend Resort?
- Big Bend Resort is a public boat ramp in California. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Big Bend Resort?
- Big Bend Resort supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at Big Bend Resort?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Big Bend Resort?
- The best time to paddle at Big Bend Resort is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
- What are the water conditions at Big Bend Resort?
- Water conditions at Big Bend Resort include mild current.
- Is Big Bend Resort good for beginners?
- Yes, Big Bend Resort 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: 34.2605, -114.1648
Quick Facts
- State
- California
- Region
- West
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Parker Dam
34.2605, -114.1648
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