How do I access McKay Landing?

McKay Landing is a public boat ramp in Montana. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at McKay Landing?

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

What amenities are at McKay Landing?

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

When is the best time to visit McKay Landing?

The best time to paddle at McKay Landing is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at McKay Landing?

Water conditions at McKay Landing include mild current.

Is McKay Landing good for beginners?

Yes, McKay Landing 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 river running through a lush green forest

Photo by Joseph Hughes on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

McKay Landing

Plains, MT · Boat Ramp · Public

McKay Landing is a public boat ramp on Clark Fork River near Plains, Montana. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. 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

Boat Ramp accessing Clark Fork River near Plains, Montana. mild current conditions.

Paddlers heading out on Clark Fork River will find McKay Landing in Montana a reliable starting point with established launch facilities.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.

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

Getting here from Plains takes about 15 min, putting McKay Landing 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 McKay Landing?: McKay Landing is a public boat ramp in Montana. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at McKay Landing?: McKay Landing supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at McKay Landing?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit McKay Landing?: The best time to paddle at McKay Landing is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at McKay Landing?: Water conditions at McKay Landing include mild current.
Is McKay Landing good for beginners?: Yes, McKay Landing 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: 47.5422, -115.0929