Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingDockRestrooms

Best Time to Visit

Ray Lynn Barnes Public Boat Ramp

Crestview, FL · Boat Ramp · Public

Ray Lynn Barnes Public Boat Ramp is a public boat ramp on Shoal River near Crestview, 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

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Fee

Free

Hours

Unknown

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

Public launch on Shoal River in Florida. Beginner-friendly river paddling near Crestview.

Situated along Shoal River in Florida, Ray Lynn Barnes Public Boat Ramp provides convenient river access for kayakers, canoeists, and other paddlers.

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. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

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

Ray Lynn Barnes Public Boat Ramp sits about 5 min from Crestview, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

Paddling Tips

  • Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
  • Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
  • Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
  • River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Ray Lynn Barnes Public Boat Ramp?
Ray Lynn Barnes Public Boat Ramp is a public boat ramp in Florida. There is no entrance fee. Hours: Unknown.
What activities are available at Ray Lynn Barnes Public Boat Ramp?
Ray Lynn Barnes Public Boat Ramp supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Ray Lynn Barnes Public Boat Ramp?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, restrooms. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Ray Lynn Barnes Public Boat Ramp?
The best time to paddle at Ray Lynn Barnes Public Boat Ramp is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Ray Lynn Barnes Public Boat Ramp?
Water conditions at Ray Lynn Barnes Public Boat Ramp include mild current.
Is Ray Lynn Barnes Public Boat Ramp good for beginners?
Yes, Ray Lynn Barnes Public Boat Ramp 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: 30.7534, -86.5097

Quick Facts

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

30.7534, -86.5097

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More Paddling on Shoal River

1 other launch on this water body