Sheyenne River

The Bayshore Resort boat ramp in Valley City provides access to the Sheyenne River in Barnes County. This location serves as a convenient put-in point for paddlers and boaters exploring the scenic Sheyenne River Water Trail. The nearby Ashtabula Lake, created by the Baldhill Dam, offers additional paddling opportunities upstream, though portaging around the dam is required to access different sections of the river.

Water conditions on the Sheyenne vary seasonally. Flows between 100-300 cubic feet per second allow navigation in most areas with minor obstacles, while 300-1,000 cfs is considered optimal paddling flow. Be aware that spring and summer are maintenance season for boat ramps in the area, and ramp usability can be affected by construction work or seasonal conditions. The river passes through Valley City's historic downtown area, which features pedestrian bridges and parks along the waterway.

For current information on ramp conditions, water levels, and any seasonal closures, check local resources before your trip. This access point is part of the broader Sheyenne River Water Trail system and provides good access for day trips or longer paddling adventures through eastern North Dakota's prairie wetlands.

This recreation area is part of Ashtabula Lake