Back River

The Back River boat ramp in Boothbay provides convenient public access to a medium-sized river system in Lincoln County. This upgraded facility offers dedicated amenities for both paddlers and motorized boaters, including a canoe/kayak ramp, standard boat launch, and parking areas. The site features a small daily fee (payable via post at the parking area) and is suitable for all skill levels exploring this scenic coastal Maine waterway.

Back River is a 21-mile river with a gentle character ideal for recreational paddling. With minimal elevation drop (only 4 feet over its entire length) and a relatively low average gradient of 0.2 ft/mile, the river flows at a modest 1.32 feet/second, making it manageable for canoeists and kayakers. The river drains a 96-square-mile watershed and maintains an average flow of about 107 cubic feet per second, providing reliable water conditions for paddling throughout most of the year.

This location provides excellent access to the southern portion of Boston Harbor and allows paddlers to explore both the upper river reaches and the scenic coastal areas near Franklin Island National Wildlife Refuge and other local points of interest. The facility's multiuse trails add additional recreational opportunities beyond paddling.