How do I access McNary National Wildlife Refuge?

McNary National Wildlife Refuge is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at McNary National Wildlife Refuge?

McNary National Wildlife Refuge 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 McNary National Wildlife Refuge?

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

When is the best time to visit McNary National Wildlife Refuge?

The best time to paddle at McNary National Wildlife Refuge is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at McNary National Wildlife Refuge?

Water conditions at McNary National Wildlife Refuge include calm, sheltered.

Is McNary National Wildlife Refuge good for beginners?

Yes, McNary National Wildlife Refuge 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.

Two paddleboarders on a serene mountain lake at sunset

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

McNary National Wildlife Refuge

Burbank, WA · Boat Ramp · Public

McNary National Wildlife Refuge is a public boat ramp on Columbia River - Lake Wallula near Burbank, 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

Good

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

About This Location

Lake access at McNary National Wildlife Refuge near Burbank, Washington. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Situated on Columbia River - Lake Wallula in Washington, McNary National Wildlife Refuge is a launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and SUP enthusiasts.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.

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

Getting here from Burbank takes about 5 min, putting McNary National Wildlife Refuge within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make McNary National Wildlife Refuge ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.
•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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access McNary National Wildlife Refuge?: McNary National Wildlife Refuge is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at McNary National Wildlife Refuge?: McNary National Wildlife Refuge 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 McNary National Wildlife Refuge?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit McNary National Wildlife Refuge?: The best time to paddle at McNary National Wildlife Refuge is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at McNary National Wildlife Refuge?: Water conditions at McNary National Wildlife Refuge include calm, sheltered.
Is McNary National Wildlife Refuge good for beginners?: Yes, McNary National Wildlife Refuge 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: 46.1614, -118.9550