Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Best Time to Visit
Merrimack River
Merrimack River is a public boat ramp on Merrimack River near Concord, New Hampshire. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. Best visited in summer.
At a Glance
Water Body
River
Launch Type
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Fee
Free
Activities
Kayaking, Canoeing, Kayak Fishing
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
Merrimack River offers river paddling on Merrimack River in New Hampshire. Located near Concord.
Located in New Hampshire, Merrimack River puts you on Merrimack River with room to explore upstream or downstream from the launch.
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. The Northeast offers seasonal paddling with vibrant fall foliage and warm summer days on the water.
Expect mild current conditions on the water. The best time to visit is June through August. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and dock and restrooms and boating and fishing and ada accessible.
Merrimack River sits about 5 min from Concord, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.
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 Merrimack River?
- Merrimack River is a public boat ramp in New Hampshire. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Merrimack River?
- Merrimack River supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at Merrimack River?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, restrooms, boating, fishing, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Merrimack River?
- The best time to paddle at Merrimack River is during summer. June through August
- What are the water conditions at Merrimack River?
- Water conditions at Merrimack River include mild current.
- Is Merrimack River good for beginners?
- Yes, Merrimack River 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: 43.2705, -71.5644
Quick Facts
- State
- New Hampshire
- Region
- Northeast
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Concord
43.2705, -71.5644
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Merrimack River (East Concord)
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Institute Drive
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Kiwanis River Front Park
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