a large body of water surrounded by trees
Photo by zelle duda on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingDockFishing PierLightingADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Salmons Landing

Macon, NC · Boat Ramp · Public

Salmons Landing is a public boat ramp on Roanoke River (Lake Gaston) near Macon, 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

Public launch on Roanoke River (Lake Gaston) in North Carolina. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Macon.

Paddlers visiting Roanoke River (Lake Gaston) in North Carolina can launch from Salmons Landing, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

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 fishing pier and lighting and ada accessible.

Getting here from Macon takes about 5 min, putting Salmons Landing within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Paddling Tips

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Salmons Landing?
Salmons Landing is a public boat ramp in North Carolina. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Salmons Landing?
Salmons Landing 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 Salmons Landing?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, fishing pier, lighting, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Salmons Landing?
The best time to paddle at Salmons Landing is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Salmons Landing?
Water conditions at Salmons Landing include calm, sheltered.
Is Salmons Landing good for beginners?
Yes, Salmons Landing 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: 36.4868, -77.9471

Quick Facts

Region
Southeast
Getting There
~5 min from Macon
Get Directions

36.4868, -77.9471

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More Paddling on Roanoke River (Lake Gaston)

2 other launches on this water body