How do I access Barringer Slough Wildlife Area?

Barringer Slough Wildlife Area is a public boat ramp in Iowa. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Barringer Slough Wildlife Area?

Barringer Slough Wildlife Area 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 Barringer Slough Wildlife Area?

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

When is the best time to visit Barringer Slough Wildlife Area?

The best time to paddle at Barringer Slough Wildlife Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Barringer Slough Wildlife Area?

Water conditions at Barringer Slough Wildlife Area include calm, sheltered.

Is Barringer Slough Wildlife Area good for beginners?

Yes, Barringer Slough Wildlife Area 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.

a small boat in the middle of a body of water

Photo by Drew Dau on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Barringer Slough Wildlife Area

Ruthven, IA · Boat Ramp · Public

Barringer Slough Wildlife Area is a public boat ramp on Barringer Slough near Ruthven, Iowa. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

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

Boat Ramp accessing Barringer Slough near Ruthven, Iowa. calm and sheltered conditions.

Barringer Slough Wildlife Area provides shoreline access to Barringer Slough in Iowa, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.

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.

You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Located about 5 min from Ruthven, Barringer Slough Wildlife Area is a convenient option for Ruthven-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Barringer Slough Wildlife Area ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•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.
•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Barringer Slough Wildlife Area?: Barringer Slough Wildlife Area is a public boat ramp in Iowa. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Barringer Slough Wildlife Area?: Barringer Slough Wildlife Area 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 Barringer Slough Wildlife Area?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Barringer Slough Wildlife Area?: The best time to paddle at Barringer Slough Wildlife Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Barringer Slough Wildlife Area?: Water conditions at Barringer Slough Wildlife Area include calm, sheltered.
Is Barringer Slough Wildlife Area good for beginners?: Yes, Barringer Slough Wildlife Area 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: 43.1634, -94.9245