How do I access French Rocks?

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

What activities are available at French Rocks?

French Rocks 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 French Rocks?

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

When is the best time to visit French Rocks?

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

What are the water conditions at French Rocks?

Water conditions at French Rocks include calm, sheltered.

Is French Rocks good for beginners?

Yes, French Rocks 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.

a red paddle boat floating on top of a lake filled with lily pads

Photo by fr0ggy5 on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

French Rocks

Rice, WA · Boat Ramp · Public

French Rocks is a public boat ramp on Columbia River - Franklin D. Roosevelt Lake near Rice, Washington. 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

Launch into Columbia River - Franklin D. Roosevelt Lake near Rice, Washington. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

French Rocks is a public access point on Columbia River - Franklin D. Roosevelt Lake in Washington, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.

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 Rice, French Rocks is a convenient option for Rice-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make French Rocks ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access French Rocks?: French Rocks is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at French Rocks?: French Rocks 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 French Rocks?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit French Rocks?: The best time to paddle at French Rocks is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at French Rocks?: Water conditions at French Rocks include calm, sheltered.
Is French Rocks good for beginners?: Yes, French Rocks 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: 48.4949, -118.1978