How do I access North McNary?

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

What activities are available at North McNary?

North McNary 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 North McNary?

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

When is the best time to visit North McNary?

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

What are the water conditions at North McNary?

Water conditions at North McNary include calm, sheltered.

Is North McNary good for beginners?

Yes, North McNary 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.

Photo by fr0ggy5 on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

North McNary

Umatilla, WA · Boat Ramp · Public

North McNary is a public boat ramp on Columbia River - Lake Wallula near Umatilla, 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

North McNary offers lake paddling on Columbia River - Lake Wallula in Washington. Located near Umatilla.

Lake paddlers in Washington will appreciate North McNary, which offers direct access to Columbia River - Lake Wallula and its surrounding waters.

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.

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 5 min from Umatilla, North McNary is a convenient option for Umatilla-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make North McNary 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 North McNary?: North McNary is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at North McNary?: North McNary 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 North McNary?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit North McNary?: The best time to paddle at North McNary is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at North McNary?: Water conditions at North McNary include calm, sheltered.
Is North McNary good for beginners?: Yes, North McNary 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: 45.9440, -119.2990