blue and white kayak on lake during daytime
Photo by Megan Lord on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

James Kipp Park (Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument)

Roy, MT · Boat Ramp · Public

James Kipp Park (Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument) is a public boat ramp on Missouri River - Fort Peck Lake near Roy, Montana. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.

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

Launch into Missouri River - Fort Peck Lake near Roy, Montana. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

James Kipp Park (Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument) is a public access point on Missouri River - Fort Peck Lake in Montana, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.

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. Mountain waterways in the Rockies run cold and clear, fed by snowmelt and alpine runoff.

Expect calm and sheltered conditions on the water. The best time to visit is June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

James Kipp Park (Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument) sits about 25 min from Roy, making it an accessible destination for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make James Kipp Park (Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument) 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 James Kipp Park (Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument)?
James Kipp Park (Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument) is a public boat ramp in Montana. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at James Kipp Park (Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument)?
James Kipp Park (Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument) 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 James Kipp Park (Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument)?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit James Kipp Park (Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument)?
The best time to paddle at James Kipp Park (Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument) is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at James Kipp Park (Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument)?
Water conditions at James Kipp Park (Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument) include calm, sheltered.
Is James Kipp Park (Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument) good for beginners?
Yes, James Kipp Park (Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument) 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: 47.6240, -108.6776

Quick Facts

State
Montana
Region
Rocky Mountains
Getting There
~25 min from Roy
Get Directions

47.6240, -108.6776

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