How do I access Van Riper's Resort?

Van Riper's Resort is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Van Riper's Resort?

Van Riper's Resort supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Van Riper's Resort?

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

When is the best time to visit Van Riper's Resort?

The best time to paddle at Van Riper's Resort is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Van Riper's Resort?

Water conditions at Van Riper's Resort include sheltered, tidal.

Is Van Riper's Resort good for beginners?

Yes, Van Riper's Resort 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.

Boats docked in a marina with a seaplane wing.

Photo by Jim Petkiewicz on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingSUPSea KayakingBeginner

Conditions

BayShelteredTidal

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Van Riper's Resort

Clallam Bay, WA · Boat Ramp · Public

Van Riper's Resort is a public boat ramp on Strait of Juan de Fuca - Clallam Bay near Clallam Bay, 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

Limited

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

About This Location

Bay access at Van Riper's Resort near Clallam Bay, Washington. Good for kayaking and sup.

Van Riper's Resort sits on Strait of Juan de Fuca - Clallam Bay in Washington, providing a launchpoint where sheltered bay waters meet tidal currents.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. 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.

Van Riper's Resort sits about 5 min from Clallam Bay, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm bay waters make Van Riper's Resort ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Explore the shoreline for hidden coves and calm side channels.
•Bring binoculars — bays are excellent for bird and marine wildlife viewing.
•Check for any no-paddle zones or restricted areas near ports.
•Time your paddle around slack tide for the easiest conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Van Riper's Resort?: Van Riper's Resort is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Van Riper's Resort?: Van Riper's Resort supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Van Riper's Resort?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Van Riper's Resort?: The best time to paddle at Van Riper's Resort is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Van Riper's Resort?: Water conditions at Van Riper's Resort include sheltered, tidal.
Is Van Riper's Resort good for beginners?: Yes, Van Riper's Resort 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: 48.2628, -124.3006