How do I access Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area?

Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area is a public boat ramp in Missouri. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area?

Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area 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 Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area?

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

When is the best time to visit Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area?

The best time to paddle at Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area?

Water conditions at Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area include calm, sheltered.

Is Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area good for beginners?

Yes, Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area 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.

Photo by Andrew Benefield on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area

Perry, MO · Boat Ramp · Public

Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area is a public boat ramp on Mark Twain Lake (Lick Creek ) near Perry, Missouri. 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 Mark Twain Lake (Lick Creek ) near Perry, Missouri. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area is a public access point on Mark Twain Lake (Lick Creek ) in Missouri, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.

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. Midwestern waterways provide reliable paddling through the warmer months, with vast open spaces and uncrowded conditions.

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 Perry, Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Perry area.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•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.
•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area?: Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area is a public boat ramp in Missouri. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area?: Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area 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 Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area?: The best time to paddle at Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area?: Water conditions at Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area include calm, sheltered.
Is Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area good for beginners?: Yes, Duane S. Wheelan Recreation Area 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: 39.4641, -91.6823