Jacksonville Kayak and Canoe Ramps

Ringhaver park has about 576 acres for everybody to enjoy. There are soccer fields, playgrounds, softball fields, walking trails, tennis courts, and a kayak/canoe launch. The kayak/canoe launch is located down a long winding trail and is a considerable hike for those pulling or carrying the yaks. The launch will put you on the western end of the Ortega River. Heading south on the Ortega River offers a nice, peaceful paddle. There aren’t many docks back this way, just a lot of nature. In doing the research on this ramp, I must say, I was a little creeped out walking to this ramp. I don’t know if it was being alone in the woods or the gang graffiti on the dock itself. Either way, go with a partner just to be safe. There may be heavy traffic on weekends for those skiing and wakeboarding in the river.

The Wayne B. Stevens Boat ramp is the largest boat ramp on the westside of Jacksonville. Used primarily for larger boat traffic, there is also a kayak and canoe ramp at this location. There are about 45 parking spaces at this location along with a picnic area and restrooms.

This ramp is very small, but can offer a nice paddle through a winding creek that leads to the Ortega River.

County dock is a hand launch area at the terminus of County Dock Road in Mandarin. The facility has limited space and is part of a larger park and fishing pier. There is no trailer parking and limited turnaround area. There is also a fixed dock that can be used for fishing also.