How do I access Howarth Park?

Howarth Park is a public boat ramp in California. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Howarth Park?

Howarth Park 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 Howarth Park?

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

When is the best time to visit Howarth Park?

The best time to paddle at Howarth Park is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round

What are the water conditions at Howarth Park?

Water conditions at Howarth Park include calm, sheltered.

Is Howarth Park good for beginners?

Yes, Howarth Park 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.

Kayakers paddling through a dramatic desert canyon at sunset

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsBoat Rental

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall Winter

Howarth Park

Santa Rosa, CA · Boat Ramp · Public

Howarth Park is a public boat ramp on Lake Ralphine near Santa Rosa, California. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in spring and summer and fall and winter.

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

Good

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

About This Location

Public launch on Lake Ralphine in California. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Santa Rosa.

Paddlers visiting Lake Ralphine in California can launch from Howarth Park, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water.

You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs Year-round. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and boat rental.

Located about 5 min from Santa Rosa, Howarth Park is a convenient option for Santa Rosa-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
•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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Howarth Park?: Howarth Park is a public boat ramp in California. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Howarth Park?: Howarth Park 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 Howarth Park?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, boat rental. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Howarth Park?: The best time to paddle at Howarth Park is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Howarth Park?: Water conditions at Howarth Park include calm, sheltered.
Is Howarth Park good for beginners?: Yes, Howarth Park 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: 38.4538, -122.6682