Swan Island

**Overview & Access**
Located in North Portland, the Swan Island boat ramp provides one of the few public launch points on the lower Willamette River. The ramp accesses Swan Island Lagoon, a protected alcove on the inland side of Swan Island Peninsula, offering sheltered water compared to the main river channel. The launch is situated in an industrial area and is maintained by the Oregon State Marine Board as a public facility.

**Practical Information for Paddlers & Boaters**
The ramp features parking and a paved trail leading to the launch area. However, be aware that this is an active commercial shipping area—you may encounter barge traffic, grain ships, and Coast Guard dredges, so exercise caution when entering or exiting the ramp. The protected lagoon setting makes it suitable for kayakers and canoeists seeking calmer conditions on the Willamette. Given the limited public access points on this stretch of river, the ramp is popular during peak use times.

**Nearby Recreation**
The site offers proximity to other outdoor opportunities including Fort Vancouver National Historic Site (visible across the Columbia River to the north) and the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge, making it a good base for exploring the broader Portland area waterways and natural spaces.