Solo kayaker on a misty river through old-growth Pacific Northwest forest

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Patterson Ferry

Irrigon, OR · Boat Ramp · Public

Patterson Ferry is a public boat ramp on Columbia River near Irrigon, Oregon. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing

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

Boat Ramp accessing Columbia River near Irrigon, Oregon. mild current conditions.

Paddlers heading out on Columbia River will find Patterson Ferry in Oregon a reliable starting point with established launch facilities.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle.

Water conditions are generally mild current. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Irrigon takes about 5 min, putting Patterson Ferry within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

Paddling Tips

  • Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
  • Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
  • Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
  • River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Patterson Ferry?
Patterson Ferry is a public boat ramp in Oregon. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Patterson Ferry?
Patterson Ferry supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Patterson Ferry?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Patterson Ferry?
The best time to paddle at Patterson Ferry is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Patterson Ferry?
Water conditions at Patterson Ferry include mild current.
Is Patterson Ferry good for beginners?
Yes, Patterson Ferry 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: 45.9138, -119.5549

Quick Facts

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

45.9138, -119.5549

Best Paddling in Oregon

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 Patterson Ferry

Sign In

Paddle Routes from Here

No paddle routes from this location yet.

Be the first to create one!