a dock with a row of canoes on it
Photo by fr0ggy5 on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

ReservoirCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Carter's Landing

Riley, OR · Boat Ramp · Public

Carter's Landing is a public boat ramp on Oxbow Reservoir near Riley, Oregon. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Reservoir

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, 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

Reservoir access at Carter's Landing near Riley, Oregon. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

For calm-water paddling in Oregon, Carter's Landing offers a launch into Oxbow Reservoir with its protected reservoir waters.

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.

Getting here from Riley takes about 5 min, putting Carter's Landing within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm reservoir waters make Carter's Landing ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Early morning and late evening are prime times for calm water and fishing.
  • Water levels can fluctuate significantly — check current levels before your trip.
  • The upper arms of reservoirs are often calmer than the main body.
  • Bring extra sunscreen — reservoirs offer little shade on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Carter's Landing?
Carter's Landing is a public boat ramp in Oregon. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Carter's Landing?
Carter's Landing supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Carter's Landing?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Carter's Landing?
The best time to paddle at Carter's Landing is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Carter's Landing?
Water conditions at Carter's Landing include calm, sheltered.
Is Carter's Landing good for beginners?
Yes, Carter's 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: 44.8779, -116.8621

Quick Facts

State
Oregon
Region
Pacific Northwest
Getting There
~5 min from Riley
Get Directions

44.8779, -116.8621

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