How do I access South Shore Drive?

South Shore Drive is a public boat ramp in Iowa. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at South Shore Drive?

South Shore Drive 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 South Shore Drive?

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

When is the best time to visit South Shore Drive?

The best time to paddle at South Shore Drive is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at South Shore Drive?

Water conditions at South Shore Drive include calm, sheltered.

Is South Shore Drive good for beginners?

Yes, South Shore Drive 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

South Shore Drive

Council Bluffs, IA · Boat Ramp · Public

South Shore Drive is a public boat ramp on Lake Manawa near Council Bluffs, 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

Launch into Lake Manawa near Council Bluffs, Iowa. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

South Shore Drive is a public access point on Lake Manawa in Iowa, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.

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 Council Bluffs, South Shore Drive is a convenient option for Council Bluffs-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make South Shore Drive 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 South Shore Drive?: South Shore Drive is a public boat ramp in Iowa. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at South Shore Drive?: South Shore Drive 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 South Shore Drive?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit South Shore Drive?: The best time to paddle at South Shore Drive is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at South Shore Drive?: Water conditions at South Shore Drive include calm, sheltered.
Is South Shore Drive good for beginners?: Yes, South Shore Drive 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: 41.2127, -95.8672