Data Disclaimer: Water level data is provided by USGS and NOAA for informational purposes only. Verify conditions on-site before any water activities.
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This boat ramp provides access to the Tamiami Canal and Conservation Area 3A South, offering paddlers and boaters entry into the expansive Everglades waterway system. Located in Miami-Dade County along the iconic Tamiami Trail (US 41), the S-12-A ramp at Forty Mile Bend serves as a convenient launching point for exploring the canal system and adjacent conservation areas. The flat, slow-moving waters characteristic of this region make it suitable for kayakers and canoeists of varying skill levels.
The immediate area offers basic amenities typical of Everglades access points, including nearby fishing opportunities and camping facilities. Two reservable campgrounds—Pinecrest Group Campground and Mitchell Landing Campground—are located within 10 miles, making this a good base for multi-day paddling trips. The Tamiami Canal itself is well-established for water recreation, and this access point connects paddlers to the broader network of waterways throughout Conservation Area 3A and beyond, including routes toward the Turner River and downstream paddling routes.
Paddlers should be prepared for typical Everglades conditions: shallow, slow-moving water, abundant wildlife (including alligators), and minimal current. Check current water conditions before launching, as water levels can vary seasonally. This location is ideal for day trips or as a starting point for longer explorations of the conservation area's interconnected canal system.