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

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Rick Johnson Park

Watertown, MN · Boat Ramp · Public

Rick Johnson Park is a public boat ramp on Crow River near Watertown, 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

Public launch on Crow River in Minnesota. Beginner-friendly river paddling near Watertown.

Situated along Crow River in Minnesota, Rick Johnson Park provides convenient river access for kayakers, canoeists, and other paddlers.

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.

Water conditions are generally mild current. June through August is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Watertown takes about 5 min, putting Rick Johnson Park within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

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 Rick Johnson Park?
Rick Johnson Park is a public boat ramp in Minnesota. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Rick Johnson Park?
Rick Johnson Park supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Rick Johnson Park?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Rick Johnson Park?
The best time to paddle at Rick Johnson Park is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Rick Johnson Park?
Water conditions at Rick Johnson Park include mild current.
Is Rick Johnson Park good for beginners?
Yes, Rick Johnson 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: 44.9654, -93.8452

Quick Facts

Region
Great Lakes
Getting There
~5 min from Watertown
Get Directions

44.9654, -93.8452

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