Activity

Sea KayakingSUPBeginner

Conditions

OceanOpen WaterTidal

Amenities

Boat RampParkingDockRestroomsADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Dessie Smith Prescott Memorial Inglis Dam Recreation Area - Lake Rousseau Boat Ramp

Crystal River, FL · Boat Ramp · Public

Dessie Smith Prescott Memorial Inglis Dam Recreation Area - Lake Rousseau Boat Ramp is a public boat ramp on Withlacoochee River - Lake Rousseau near Crystal River, Florida. This beginner-level spot offers sea kayaking, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. Best visited in spring and summer and fall and winter.

At a Glance

Water Body

Ocean

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Free

Hours

24 Hours

Activities

Sea Kayaking, SUP

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Sheltered ocean with tidal influence. Time your paddle around slack tide for the easiest conditions. Suitable for beginners with basic awareness of tidal flow.

About This Location

Launch into Withlacoochee River - Lake Rousseau near Crystal River, Florida. Beginner level with open water and tidal water.

Coastal paddlers in Florida can reach Withlacoochee River - Lake Rousseau from Dessie Smith Prescott Memorial Inglis Dam Recreation Area - Lake Rousseau Boat Ramp, with open water conditions and shoreline scenery.

Sea kayakers can use this as a base to explore the coastline and nearby features. Stand-up paddleboarding is popular here when winds are light, especially in the morning hours.

You can expect open water and tidal water when paddling here. The recommended season runs Year-round. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and dock and restrooms and ada accessible.

Located about 5 min from Crystal River, Dessie Smith Prescott Memorial Inglis Dam Recreation Area - Lake Rousseau Boat Ramp is a convenient option for Crystal River-area paddlers.

Paddling Tips

  • Carry a marine VHF radio or waterproof phone for emergencies.
  • Wear a brightly colored PFD so boats can spot you easily.
  • Practice self-rescue techniques before venturing into ocean waters.
  • Check tide tables and swell forecasts before launching.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Dessie Smith Prescott Memorial Inglis Dam Recreation Area - Lake Rousseau Boat Ramp?
Dessie Smith Prescott Memorial Inglis Dam Recreation Area - Lake Rousseau Boat Ramp is a public boat ramp in Florida. There is no entrance fee. Hours: 24 Hours.
What activities are available at Dessie Smith Prescott Memorial Inglis Dam Recreation Area - Lake Rousseau Boat Ramp?
Dessie Smith Prescott Memorial Inglis Dam Recreation Area - Lake Rousseau Boat Ramp supports sea kayaking, stand up paddleboarding. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Dessie Smith Prescott Memorial Inglis Dam Recreation Area - Lake Rousseau Boat Ramp?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, restrooms, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Dessie Smith Prescott Memorial Inglis Dam Recreation Area - Lake Rousseau Boat Ramp?
The best time to paddle at Dessie Smith Prescott Memorial Inglis Dam Recreation Area - Lake Rousseau Boat Ramp is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Dessie Smith Prescott Memorial Inglis Dam Recreation Area - Lake Rousseau Boat Ramp?
Water conditions at Dessie Smith Prescott Memorial Inglis Dam Recreation Area - Lake Rousseau Boat Ramp include open water, tidal.
Is Dessie Smith Prescott Memorial Inglis Dam Recreation Area - Lake Rousseau Boat Ramp good for beginners?
Yes, Dessie Smith Prescott Memorial Inglis Dam Recreation Area - Lake Rousseau Boat Ramp is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Sheltered ocean with tidal influence. Time your paddle around slack tide for the easiest conditions. Suitable for beginners with basic awareness of tidal flow.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 29.0076, -82.6163

Quick Facts

State
Florida
Region
Southeast
Getting There
~5 min from Crystal River
Get Directions

29.0076, -82.6163

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