How do I access Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam?

Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam is a public boat ramp in Mississippi. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam?

Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam?

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

When is the best time to visit Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam?

The best time to paddle at Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam?

Water conditions at Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam include calm, sheltered.

Is Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam good for beginners?

Yes, Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam 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.

brown trees on brown soil near body of water during daytime

Photo by Justin Wilkens on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

ReservoirCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam

Ridgeland, MS · Boat Ramp · Public

Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam is a public boat ramp on Pearl River - Ross R. Barnett Reservoir near Ridgeland, Mississippi. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Reservoir

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, 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

Reservoir access at Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam near Ridgeland, Mississippi. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam provides access to Pearl River - Ross R. Barnett Reservoir in Mississippi, a reservoir offering calm waters for paddling.

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. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

Conditions here tend to be calm and sheltered, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

At about 5 min from Ridgeland, Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Ridgeland area.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm reservoir waters make Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Water levels can fluctuate significantly — check current levels before your trip.
•The upper arms of reservoirs are often calmer than the main body.
•Bring extra sunscreen — reservoirs offer little shade on the water.
•Watch for submerged stumps and debris, especially at lower water levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam?: Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam is a public boat ramp in Mississippi. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam?: Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam?: The best time to paddle at Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam?: Water conditions at Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam include calm, sheltered.
Is Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam good for beginners?: Yes, Ross R. Barnett Reservoir Dam 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: 32.3882, -90.0476