Little Platte Park

Little Platte Park is a Clay County-operated boat ramp facility on Smithville Lake near Smithville, Missouri, about 30 minutes north of downtown Kansas City. The park offers convenient access to the 7,190-acre reservoir and serves as a launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and paddleboarders. The facility includes parking, restrooms, and nearby amenities such as a marina store operated by Clay County Parks. Camp Branch Campground is located within the area if you're planning an overnight trip.

Paddlers should note that while the main lake is suitable for most watercraft, conditions vary. Those interested in exploring the Little Platte River paddle route upstream should be aware that the river becomes shallower with stumps and obstacles as you travel north, which may limit access for larger boats and require caution for smaller craft. The lake itself offers more predictable paddling conditions. Little Platte Park is one of four public boat ramps on Smithville Lake, so you have alternative launch options if needed. Check current conditions locally before paddling upriver, especially if you're unfamiliar with the area.