How do I access Railroad Island?

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

What activities are available at Railroad Island?

Railroad Island 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 Railroad Island?

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

When is the best time to visit Railroad Island?

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

What are the water conditions at Railroad Island?

Water conditions at Railroad Island include calm, sheltered.

Is Railroad Island good for beginners?

Yes, Railroad Island 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 body of water surrounded by mountains and trees

Photo by Zoshua Colah on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Railroad Island

Rufus, WA · Boat Ramp · Public

Railroad Island is a public boat ramp on Columbia River - Lake Umatilla near Rufus, 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

Boat Ramp accessing Columbia River - Lake Umatilla near Rufus, Washington. calm and sheltered conditions.

Railroad Island provides shoreline access to Columbia River - Lake Umatilla in Washington, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.

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.

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 Rufus takes about 5 min, putting Railroad Island within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Railroad Island 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 Railroad Island?: Railroad Island is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Railroad Island?: Railroad Island 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 Railroad Island?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Railroad Island?: The best time to paddle at Railroad Island is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Railroad Island?: Water conditions at Railroad Island include calm, sheltered.
Is Railroad Island good for beginners?: Yes, Railroad Island 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: 45.7244, -120.6981