Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Sunbury
Sunbury is a public boat ramp on Susquehanna River near Shamokin Dam, Pennsylvania. 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 Susquehanna River near Shamokin Dam, Pennsylvania. mild current conditions.
Paddlers heading out on Susquehanna River will find Sunbury in Pennsylvania 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 Shamokin Dam takes about 5 min, putting Sunbury within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.
Paddling Tips
- •River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
- •Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
- •Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
- •Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Sunbury?
- Sunbury is a public boat ramp in Pennsylvania. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Sunbury?
- Sunbury supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at Sunbury?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Sunbury?
- The best time to paddle at Sunbury is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at Sunbury?
- Water conditions at Sunbury include mild current.
- Is Sunbury good for beginners?
- Yes, Sunbury 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: 40.8470, -76.8044
Quick Facts
- State
- Pennsylvania
- Region
- Northeast
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Shamokin Dam
40.8470, -76.8044
Best Paddling in Pennsylvania
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Paddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
More Paddling on Susquehanna River
6 other launches on this water body
Shady Nook
Pennsylvania · 2.5 mi
Northumberland Municipal
Pennsylvania · 3.1 mi
Airport Campground
Pennsylvania · 3.8 mi

Isle of Que
Pennsylvania · 4.9 mi
Hoovers Island
Pennsylvania · 7.2 mi
Danville
Pennsylvania · 12.6 mi
Nearby Paddling
Shikellamy State Park South
Pennsylvania · 2.4 mi
Shady Nook
Pennsylvania · 2.5 mi
Shikellamy State Park
Pennsylvania · 2.6 mi
Point of Northumberland
Pennsylvania · 2.6 mi
Northumberland Municipal
Pennsylvania · 3.1 mi
Old Sawmill Campground
Pennsylvania · 3.5 mi