Access Site
MA
Merrimack River (Riverfront Park)
City: Lawrence, MA
County: Essex County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 42.69661039, -71.16964063
Air Temp: --
Location
Interactive access map
Loads when you reach this section.
Nearby Gauge Conditions
Real-time data from USGS Water Services
Whitewater Runs on Merrimack River
3 runsDifficulty 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
Downstream from here Upstream from here
III
Upstream from here (10.8 mi from take-out)
Pawtucket Run
0.8 mi
I-II+(III)
Upstream from here (25.8 mi from take-out)
6) Amoskeag Falls to Goffs Falls (Crack Pipe, 293 Wave)
5.1 mi
4 ft/mi
I
Upstream from here (43.2 mi from take-out)
1) Franklin to Concord
24.0 mi
5 ft/mi
Whitewater data from
American Whitewater
About This Access Site
Riverfront Park in Lawrence provides public boat ramp access to the Merrimack River, a major waterway in northeastern Massachusetts. This launch site serves kayakers, canoeists, and other small watercraft looking to explore the river. The Merrimack offers opportunities to paddle both developed and scenic sections, including access to the Wild and Scenic portions of the river that feature extended stretches of undeveloped shoreline.
The facility includes parking and a carry-in boat launch designed for smaller vessels. The location puts paddlers within easy reach of significant regional attractions, including the nearby Lowell National Historical Park (upstream) and the broader Essex National Heritage Area. Before planning your visit, check current conditions and any seasonal access restrictions, as water levels and weather can affect paddling conditions on the Merrimack. The site's proximity to Lawrence makes it a convenient access point for day trips and exploring this important New England river corridor.
The facility includes parking and a carry-in boat launch designed for smaller vessels. The location puts paddlers within easy reach of significant regional attractions, including the nearby Lowell National Historical Park (upstream) and the broader Essex National Heritage Area. Before planning your visit, check current conditions and any seasonal access restrictions, as water levels and weather can affect paddling conditions on the Merrimack. The site's proximity to Lawrence makes it a convenient access point for day trips and exploring this important New England river corridor.
Nearby Recreation Areas
Essex National Heritage Area
Located within
Lowell National Historical Park
Located within