Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Ray Behrens Recreation Area
Ray Behrens Recreation Area is a public boat ramp on Mark Twain Lake near Center, 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
Limited
Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
About This Location
Boat Ramp accessing Mark Twain Lake near Center, Missouri. calm and sheltered conditions.
Ray Behrens Recreation Area provides shoreline access to Mark Twain Lake in Missouri, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.
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. Midwestern waterways provide reliable paddling through the warmer months, with vast open spaces and uncrowded conditions.
Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
Ray Behrens Recreation Area sits about 10 min from Center, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make Ray Behrens Recreation Area ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
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 Ray Behrens Recreation Area?
- Ray Behrens Recreation Area is a public boat ramp in Missouri. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Ray Behrens Recreation Area?
- Ray Behrens 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 Ray Behrens Recreation Area?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Ray Behrens Recreation Area?
- The best time to paddle at Ray Behrens Recreation Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at Ray Behrens Recreation Area?
- Water conditions at Ray Behrens Recreation Area include calm, sheltered.
- Is Ray Behrens Recreation Area good for beginners?
- Yes, Ray Behrens 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: 39.5114, -91.6573
Quick Facts
- State
- Missouri
- Region
- Midwest
- Getting There
- ~10 min from Center
39.5114, -91.6573
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