LaFave Park

LaFave Park in East Grand Forks offers convenient public access to the Red River of the North via boat ramp facilities on Minnesota's western border. The site is accessible from Hill Street NW or 2nd Avenue NE and features a large gravel parking lot and handicapped-accessible fishing dock. Recent improvements include a new double-wide boat ramp, an ADA-compliant kayak launch, and a floating dock system designed for easier launching and loading of vessels.

The Red River of the North is a large, moderately-flowing river (Stream Order 7) with an average flow of approximately 4,500 cubic feet per second and relatively gentle gradient of 0.5 feet per mile. With an average velocity of 3.5 feet per second, paddlers can expect manageable current conditions suitable for kayaks and canoes. The river's 31,683-square-mile drainage basin supports diverse recreation, from casual paddling to organized fishing tournaments.

The area offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, with Kellys Slough National Wildlife Refuge located nearby, established in 1936 as a breeding ground for migratory birds. Whether launching for a fishing trip, paddling expedition, or casual boating outing, LaFave Park provides well-developed facilities and good access to this major northern waterway.