How do I access Carr's Landing?

Carr's Landing is a public boat ramp in Iowa. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Carr's Landing?

Carr's Landing supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Carr's Landing?

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

When is the best time to visit Carr's Landing?

The best time to paddle at Carr's Landing is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Carr's Landing?

Water conditions at Carr's Landing include mild current.

Is Carr's Landing good for beginners?

Yes, Carr's Landing 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.

A river running through a lush green forest

Photo by Niko Vassios on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Carr's Landing

Hawarden, IA · Boat Ramp · Public

Carr's Landing is a public boat ramp on Big Sioux River near Hawarden, Iowa. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

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

Launch into Big Sioux River near Hawarden, Iowa. Beginner level with mild current water.

Carr's Landing is a public launch site on Big Sioux River in Iowa, serving as a popular put-in for paddlers exploring this section of the river.

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. Midwestern waterways provide reliable paddling through the warmer months, with vast open spaces and uncrowded conditions.

Expect mild current conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Carr's Landing sits about 5 min from Hawarden, making it a convenient option for local and visiting 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 Carr's Landing?: Carr's Landing is a public boat ramp in Iowa. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Carr's Landing?: Carr's Landing supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Carr's Landing?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Carr's Landing?: The best time to paddle at Carr's Landing is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Carr's Landing?: Water conditions at Carr's Landing include mild current.
Is Carr's Landing good for beginners?: Yes, Carr's Landing 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: 43.0107, -96.4919