Kayakers on a wide heartland river at sunset with flat green banks

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

5th Avenue North (Butler Park)

Saint Cloud, MN · Boat Ramp · Public

5th Avenue North (Butler Park) is a public boat ramp on Mississippi River near Saint Cloud, Minnesota. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.

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

River access at 5th Avenue North (Butler Park) near Saint Cloud, Minnesota. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

5th Avenue North (Butler Park) offers access to Mississippi River in Minnesota. This stretch of river draws paddlers looking for mild current conditions.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. Great Lakes paddling combines freshwater vastness with coastal-style conditions and scenery.

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

5th Avenue North (Butler Park) sits about 5 min from Saint Cloud, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

Paddling Tips

  • Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
  • 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access 5th Avenue North (Butler Park)?
5th Avenue North (Butler Park) is a public boat ramp in Minnesota. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at 5th Avenue North (Butler Park)?
5th Avenue North (Butler Park) supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at 5th Avenue North (Butler Park)?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit 5th Avenue North (Butler Park)?
The best time to paddle at 5th Avenue North (Butler Park) is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at 5th Avenue North (Butler Park)?
Water conditions at 5th Avenue North (Butler Park) include mild current.
Is 5th Avenue North (Butler Park) good for beginners?
Yes, 5th Avenue North (Butler Park) 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: 45.5649, -94.1612

Quick Facts

Region
Great Lakes
Getting There
~5 min from Saint Cloud
Get Directions

45.5649, -94.1612

Best Paddling in Minnesota

Read our complete guide →

Paddler Reviews

Write a Review

0/5,000 characters

Sign in to add photos to your review.

Trip Reports

Share a trip report

Sign in to write a detailed trip report for 5th Avenue North (Butler Park)

Sign In

Paddle Routes from Here

No paddle routes from this location yet.

Be the first to create one!