How do I access Chico?

Chico is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Chico?

Chico supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Chico?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Chico?

The best time to paddle at Chico is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Chico?

Water conditions at Chico include sheltered, tidal.

Is Chico good for beginners?

Yes, Chico is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Photo by Zoshua Colah on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingSUPSea KayakingBeginner

Conditions

BayShelteredTidal

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Chico

Tracyton, WA · Boat Ramp · Public

Chico is a public boat ramp on Chico Bay near Tracyton, Washington. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, paddleboarding, sea kayaking. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Bay

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, SUP, Sea Kayaking

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

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

About This Location

Bay access at Chico near Tracyton, Washington. Good for kayaking and sup.

Paddlers looking for protected waters in Washington can launch from Chico into Chico Bay.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Stand-up paddleboarding is popular here when winds are light, especially in the morning hours.

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

Located about 5 min from Tracyton, Chico is a convenient option for Tracyton-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm bay waters make Chico ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Bring binoculars — bays are excellent for bird and marine wildlife viewing.
•Check for any no-paddle zones or restricted areas near ports.
•Time your paddle around slack tide for the easiest conditions.
•Watch for boat traffic, especially in narrow channels and near marinas.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Chico?: Chico is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Chico?: Chico supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Chico?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Chico?: The best time to paddle at Chico is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Chico?: Water conditions at Chico include sheltered, tidal.
Is Chico good for beginners?: Yes, Chico is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered 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: 47.6113, -122.7093