person kayaking on body of water
Photo by Ward Mercer on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

CreekMild CurrentSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingDockRestroomsADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Old Ferry Public Boat Ramp (Rideout Ferry)

Doctors Inlet, FL · Boat Ramp · Public

Old Ferry Public Boat Ramp (Rideout Ferry) is a public boat ramp on Black Creek near Doctors Inlet, Florida. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. Best visited in spring and summer and fall and winter.

At a Glance

Water Body

Creek

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Free

Hours

24 Hours

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

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

About This Location

Public launch on Black Creek in Florida. Beginner-friendly creek paddling near Doctors Inlet.

Old Ferry Public Boat Ramp (Rideout Ferry) offers access to Black Creek in Florida, where narrow waterways and overhanging trees create intimate paddling.

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 mild current and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is Year-round. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and dock and restrooms and ada accessible.

Old Ferry Public Boat Ramp (Rideout Ferry) sits about 5 min from Doctors Inlet, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

Paddling Tips

  • Expect tight turns and occasional strainers (downed trees across the water).
  • A shorter kayak or canoe (under 12 feet) handles creek turns more easily.
  • Creek levels can rise quickly after rain — avoid paddling during or after storms.
  • Bring bug spray — shaded creeks can have active mosquitoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Old Ferry Public Boat Ramp (Rideout Ferry)?
Old Ferry Public Boat Ramp (Rideout Ferry) is a public boat ramp in Florida. There is no entrance fee. Hours: 24 Hours.
What activities are available at Old Ferry Public Boat Ramp (Rideout Ferry)?
Old Ferry Public Boat Ramp (Rideout Ferry) supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Old Ferry Public Boat Ramp (Rideout Ferry)?
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 Old Ferry Public Boat Ramp (Rideout Ferry)?
The best time to paddle at Old Ferry Public Boat Ramp (Rideout Ferry) is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Old Ferry Public Boat Ramp (Rideout Ferry)?
Water conditions at Old Ferry Public Boat Ramp (Rideout Ferry) include mild current, sheltered.
Is Old Ferry Public Boat Ramp (Rideout Ferry) good for beginners?
Yes, Old Ferry Public Boat Ramp (Rideout Ferry) is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered 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: 30.0805, -81.8054

Quick Facts

State
Florida
Region
Southeast
Getting There
~5 min from Doctors Inlet
Get Directions

30.0805, -81.8054

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