person surfing on sea during daytime
Photo by Zac Gudakov on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingSUPSea KayakingBeginner

Conditions

BayShelteredTidal

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Dave Mackie Park

Clinton, WA · Boat Ramp · Public

Dave Mackie Park is a public boat ramp on Useless Bay near Clinton, 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

Boat Ramp accessing Useless Bay near Clinton, Washington. sheltered and tidal conditions.

Dave Mackie Park sits on Useless Bay in Washington, providing a launchpoint where sheltered bay waters meet tidal currents.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. SUP enthusiasts will appreciate the sheltered conditions for flatwater paddleboarding. The Pacific Northwest delivers lush, green waterways with reliable rainfall keeping rivers and lakes full.

Expect sheltered and tidal conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Dave Mackie Park sits about 5 min from Clinton, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Paddling Tips

  • 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.
  • Explore the shoreline for hidden coves and calm side channels.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Dave Mackie Park?
Dave Mackie Park is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Dave Mackie Park?
Dave Mackie Park supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Dave Mackie Park?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Dave Mackie Park?
The best time to paddle at Dave Mackie Park is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Dave Mackie Park?
Water conditions at Dave Mackie Park include sheltered, tidal.
Is Dave Mackie Park good for beginners?
Yes, Dave Mackie Park 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: 47.9392, -122.4444

Quick Facts

Region
Pacific Northwest
Getting There
~5 min from Clinton
Get Directions

47.9392, -122.4444

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