Sandy River, Dam State Water Access Site

**Location & Access:**
Located in McGregor, Aitkin County, the Dam Site access provides a small dirt boat ramp on the river-left side with limited parking. This Sandy River access point is useful for paddlers and boaters looking to avoid portaging the Neal Shoals Dam. Public water accesses are open 24 hours daily and accommodate both trailer launches and carry-in boats, with most ramps capable of handling 12–18 foot boats.

**Facilities & Nearby Recreation:**
The access area is part of the Sandy Lake Dam complex, which divides facilities between north and south sides. The broader Sandy Lake recreation area offers flush and vault restrooms, showers, drinking water, and dump stations at the nearby campground. In addition to the river ramp, the Sandy Lake area includes two lake boat ramps, docks, a fishing pier, and beach access. Paddlers should note that only pedestrian traffic is permitted across the dam itself, so plan accordingly if shuttling between put-in and take-out points.