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Access Site IA

Cedar Bend Park

West Fork Cedar River

Source: iowa_department_of_natural_resources Updated 1 year ago

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City: Waterloo, IA
County: Black Hawk County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 42.51870481, -92.36598781
251 Cedar Bend St, Waterloo, IA 50703, USA
Air Temp: --
Location
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Nearby Gauge Conditions
West Fork Cedar River at Finchford, IA Same River 11.8 mi away
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Real-time data from USGS Water Services
Whitewater Runs on Cedar River
3 runs (2 nearby)
Difficulty Classes
I Easy II Novice III Intermediate IV Advanced V Expert/Extreme VI Unrunnable
Position relative to this access site: Put-in at this location This location is on the run Take-out at this location
Downstream from here Upstream from here
II Upstream from here (5.4 mi from take-out) Clay Hole, Cedar Falls (PnP)
0.2 mi 12 ft/mi
II(III) Upstream from here (43.3 mi from take-out) Charles City Whitewater
0.3 mi
These whitewater runs are on the same river but located more than 50 miles from this access site.
III 73 mi away Palisades-Kepler State Park (PnP)
0.6 mi
Whitewater data from American Whitewater
About This Access Site
Cedar Bend Park in Waterloo offers a boat ramp for accessing the West Fork Cedar River, a beginner-friendly recreational paddling destination. This Black Hawk County access point (Access #179) provides a straightforward launch for kayakers, canoeists, and small boats. The next paddling segment to Washington Union access is 4.1 miles downstream, making it suitable for half-day trips or those new to river paddling.

The park supports multiple recreational activities beyond paddling, including fishing, hunting, and bird watching. Facilities include parking and hiking areas. This access point is particularly convenient for paddlers looking to explore the West Fork Cedar River's scenic recreational waters at a manageable beginner skill level. Anglers and nature enthusiasts may also find value in the site's additional amenities.