How do I access Manuel Lisa?

Manuel Lisa is a public boat ramp in Montana. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Manuel Lisa?

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

What amenities are at Manuel Lisa?

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

When is the best time to visit Manuel Lisa?

The best time to paddle at Manuel Lisa is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Manuel Lisa?

Water conditions at Manuel Lisa include mild current.

Is Manuel Lisa good for beginners?

Yes, Manuel Lisa 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 body of water with cliffs and trees on the side

Photo by Mick Haupt on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingCamping

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Manuel Lisa

Custer, MT · Boat Ramp · Public

Manuel Lisa is a public boat ramp on Bighorn 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 Bighorn River near Custer, Montana. Beginner level with mild current water.

Manuel Lisa is a public launch site on Bighorn River in Montana, 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.

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 Manuel Lisa within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

Paddling Tips

•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.
•Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Manuel Lisa?: Manuel Lisa is a public boat ramp in Montana. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Manuel Lisa?: Manuel Lisa supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Manuel Lisa?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, camping. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Manuel Lisa?: The best time to paddle at Manuel Lisa is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Manuel Lisa?: Water conditions at Manuel Lisa include mild current.
Is Manuel Lisa good for beginners?: Yes, Manuel Lisa 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: 46.1446, -107.4645