Clackamette Park Boat Ramp

Kayaking the Sheltered Sanctuary of Clackamette Cove in Oregon

At the confluence of the Willamette and Clackamas Rivers in Clackamas County, Oregon, Clackamette Cove offers a serene and protected oasis for kayakers and small craft enthusiasts. This picturesque bay provides a tranquil, calm-water escape from the open-river conditions, making it an excellent destination for paddlers of all skill levels to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region.

Clackamette Cove's sheltered nature sets it apart as a unique paddling location in the state. As a bay waterbody, it is characterized by a more enclosed, inshore environment that is typically less exposed to the wind and waves common in larger, open-water settings. This bay-like classification results in generally calmer conditions, allowing novice and intermediate kayakers to confidently navigate the waters without the challenges of choppier, open-river paddling.

The cove's depth ranges from shallow near the shoreline to deeper channels in the center, with generally clear water visibility. Motorboat traffic is present but moderate, creating a mix of wake and chop that experienced kayakers can easily navigate. The shoreline features a varied landscape, with gently sloping banks interspersed with occasional rocky outcroppings, providing paddlers with different scenery to enjoy.