How do I access Dam 3?

Dam 3 is a public boat ramp in Michigan. There is no entrance fee. Hours: 0400_2300.

What activities are available at Dam 3?

Dam 3 supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Dam 3?

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

When is the best time to visit Dam 3?

The best time to paddle at Dam 3 is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Dam 3?

Water conditions at Dam 3 include mild current.

Is Dam 3 good for beginners?

Yes, Dam 3 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.

Photo by Laura Baker on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestroomsDockADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Dam 3

Gladstone, MI · Boat Ramp · Public

Dam 3 is a public boat ramp on Escanaba River near Gladstone, Michigan. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Hours

0400_2300

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 Escanaba River in Michigan. Beginner-friendly river paddling near Gladstone.

Situated along Escanaba River in Michigan, Dam 3 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. Great Lakes paddling combines freshwater vastness with coastal-style conditions and scenery.

Conditions here tend to be mild current, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms and dock and ada accessible.

At about 5 min from Gladstone, Dam 3 is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Gladstone area.

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 Dam 3?: Dam 3 is a public boat ramp in Michigan. There is no entrance fee. Hours: 0400_2300.
What activities are available at Dam 3?: Dam 3 supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Dam 3?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms, dock, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Dam 3?: The best time to paddle at Dam 3 is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Dam 3?: Water conditions at Dam 3 include mild current.
Is Dam 3 good for beginners?: Yes, Dam 3 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: 45.8400, -87.0915