a man in a kayak
Photo by Simon Hurry on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestrooms

Best Time to Visit

Red Bluff Diversion Dam

Red Bluff, CA · Boat Ramp · Public

Red Bluff Diversion Dam is a public boat ramp on Sacramento River near Red Bluff, California. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. 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

Red Bluff Diversion Dam offers river paddling on Sacramento River in California. Located near Red Bluff.

Located in California, Red Bluff Diversion Dam puts you on Sacramento River with room to explore upstream or downstream from the launch.

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 mild current water when paddling here. The recommended season runs Year-round. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms.

Located about 5 min from Red Bluff, Red Bluff Diversion Dam is a convenient option for Red Bluff-area paddlers.

Paddling Tips

  • 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.
  • Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Red Bluff Diversion Dam?
Red Bluff Diversion Dam is a public boat ramp in California. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Red Bluff Diversion Dam?
Red Bluff Diversion Dam supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Red Bluff Diversion Dam?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Red Bluff Diversion Dam?
The best time to paddle at Red Bluff Diversion Dam is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Red Bluff Diversion Dam?
Water conditions at Red Bluff Diversion Dam include mild current.
Is Red Bluff Diversion Dam good for beginners?
Yes, Red Bluff Diversion Dam 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: 40.1537, -122.1984

Quick Facts

Region
West
Getting There
~5 min from Red Bluff
Get Directions

40.1537, -122.1984

Best Paddling in California

Read our complete guide →

Paddler Reviews

Write a Review

0/5,000 characters

Sign in to add photos to your review.

Trip Reports

Share a trip report

Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Red Bluff Diversion Dam

Sign In

Paddle Routes from Here

No paddle routes from this location yet.

Be the first to create one!