Data Disclaimer: Water level data is provided by USGS and NOAA for informational purposes only. Verify conditions on-site before any water activities.
Learn more
Red Rock Marina Ramp provides convenient boat launch access to Lake Red Rock and the Des Moines River near Pella, Iowa. This is an excellent put-in point for kayakers and canoeists looking to explore Iowa's largest lake or paddle the Des Moines River. The ramp offers easy water access and is located at Elk Rock Campground and Boat Ramp, a federal recreation area that's part of the Lake Red Rock complex. The nearby marina also offers additional services including boat rentals, slip rentals, and dry storage if needed.
The area is well-positioned for outdoor recreation, sitting just 10 minutes from Pella and 15 minutes from Knoxville. Several campgrounds are within 10 miles of the launch, including North Overlook Camp and Whitebreast Camp (both reservable), making it easy to plan a multi-day paddling trip. In addition to paddling, the site is popular with anglers and provides good access to fish Des Moines River and Lake Red Rock waters.