How do I access Ted Shanks Conservation Area?

Ted Shanks Conservation Area is a public boat ramp in Missouri. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Ted Shanks Conservation Area?

Ted Shanks Conservation Area supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Ted Shanks Conservation Area?

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

When is the best time to visit Ted Shanks Conservation Area?

The best time to paddle at Ted Shanks Conservation Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Ted Shanks Conservation Area?

Water conditions at Ted Shanks Conservation Area include mild current.

Is Ted Shanks Conservation Area good for beginners?

Yes, Ted Shanks Conservation Area 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.

a bear standing on top of a rock in the water

Photo by Johnathan Palmour on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Ted Shanks Conservation Area

Ashburn, MO · Boat Ramp · Public

Ted Shanks Conservation Area is a public boat ramp on Salt River near Ashburn, Missouri. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, ada accessible. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

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

Launch into Salt River near Ashburn, Missouri. Beginner level with mild current water.

Ted Shanks Conservation Area is a public launch site on Salt River in Missouri, serving as a popular put-in for paddlers exploring this section of the river.

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 mild current conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and ada accessible.

Ted Shanks Conservation Area sits about 5 min from Ashburn, 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 Ted Shanks Conservation Area?: Ted Shanks Conservation Area is a public boat ramp in Missouri. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Ted Shanks Conservation Area?: Ted Shanks Conservation Area supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Ted Shanks Conservation Area?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Ted Shanks Conservation Area?: The best time to paddle at Ted Shanks Conservation Area is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Ted Shanks Conservation Area?: Water conditions at Ted Shanks Conservation Area include mild current.
Is Ted Shanks Conservation Area good for beginners?: Yes, Ted Shanks Conservation Area 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: 39.4979, -91.1204