Missouri River

The Stanton boat ramp in Mercer County provides public access to the Missouri River near the town of Stanton, North Dakota. This is a useful launch point for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboaters exploring the upper Missouri River system. Before heading out, check current conditions with the North Dakota Game and Fish Department at gf.nd.gov, as water levels and ramp usability can be affected by weather events, seasonal flows, and flooding.

The area offers more than just paddling opportunities. The nearby Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site provides historical context about the region's indigenous heritage and the important role the Missouri River played in settlement and subsistence patterns. Paddlers should be prepared for the Missouri River's characteristic conditions—plan your trip accordingly and always check current water levels and forecasts before launching.