Two paddleboarders on a serene mountain lake at sunset

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Hat Rock State Park

Umatilla, OR · Boat Ramp · Public

Hat Rock State Park is a public boat ramp on Columbia RIver - Lake Wallula near Umatilla, Oregon. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. 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

Limited

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

About This Location

Hat Rock State Park offers lake paddling on Columbia RIver - Lake Wallula in Oregon. Located near Umatilla.

Lake paddlers in Oregon will appreciate Hat Rock State Park, which offers direct access to Columbia RIver - Lake Wallula and its surrounding waters.

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.

You can expect calm and sheltered water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Located about 10 min from Umatilla, Hat Rock State Park is a convenient option for Umatilla-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Hat Rock State Park 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 Hat Rock State Park?
Hat Rock State Park is a public boat ramp in Oregon. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Hat Rock State Park?
Hat Rock State Park 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 Hat Rock State Park?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Hat Rock State Park?
The best time to paddle at Hat Rock State Park is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Hat Rock State Park?
Water conditions at Hat Rock State Park include calm, sheltered.
Is Hat Rock State Park good for beginners?
Yes, Hat Rock State Park 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: 45.9177, -119.1742

Quick Facts

State
Oregon
Region
Pacific Northwest
Getting There
~10 min from Umatilla
Get Directions

45.9177, -119.1742

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