How do I access Captain Clark?

Captain Clark is a public boat ramp in Montana. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Captain Clark?

Captain Clark supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Captain Clark?

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

When is the best time to visit Captain Clark?

The best time to paddle at Captain Clark is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Captain Clark?

Water conditions at Captain Clark include mild current.

Is Captain Clark good for beginners?

Yes, Captain Clark 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 rushing river flows through a rocky gorge.

Photo by Troy Olson on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingCamping

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Captain Clark

Custer, MT · Boat Ramp · Public

Captain Clark is a public boat ramp on Yellowstone River near Custer, Montana. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, camping. 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

Limited

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

Launch into Yellowstone River near Custer, Montana. Beginner level with mild current water.

Captain Clark is a public launch site on Yellowstone River in Montana, serving as a popular put-in for paddlers exploring this section of the river.

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.

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

Getting here from Custer takes about 10 min, putting Captain Clark within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

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 Captain Clark?: Captain Clark is a public boat ramp in Montana. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Captain Clark?: Captain Clark supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Captain Clark?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, camping. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Captain Clark?: The best time to paddle at Captain Clark is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Captain Clark?: Water conditions at Captain Clark include mild current.
Is Captain Clark good for beginners?: Yes, Captain Clark 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: 46.0753, -107.7219