Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingDockConcessionsLightingTrash ReceptaclesADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Riverbend

Mount Holly, NC · Boat Ramp · Public

Riverbend is a public boat ramp on Catawba River (Mountain Island Lake) near Mount Holly, North Carolina. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

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

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Boat Ramp accessing Catawba River (Mountain Island Lake) near Mount Holly, North Carolina. calm and sheltered conditions.

Riverbend provides shoreline access to Catawba River (Mountain Island Lake) in North Carolina, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.

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 calm and sheltered. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and dock and concessions and lighting and trash receptacles and ada accessible.

Getting here from Mount Holly takes about 5 min, putting Riverbend within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Riverbend ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
  • 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Riverbend?
Riverbend is a public boat ramp in North Carolina. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Riverbend?
Riverbend 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 Riverbend?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, concessions, lighting, trash receptacles, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Riverbend?
The best time to paddle at Riverbend is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Riverbend?
Water conditions at Riverbend include calm, sheltered.
Is Riverbend good for beginners?
Yes, Riverbend 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: 35.3534, -80.9729

Quick Facts

Region
Southeast
Getting There
~5 min from Mount Holly
Get Directions

35.3534, -80.9729

Best Paddling in North Carolina

Read our complete guide →

Paddler Reviews

Write a Review

0/5,000 characters

Sign in to add photos to your review.

Trip Reports

Share a trip report

Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Riverbend

Sign In