Ted Shanks Conservation Area

**Access & Location**
Ted Shanks Conservation Area offers a concrete boat ramp providing direct access to the Salt River in Pike County, Missouri. To reach the site from Hannibal, take Highway 79 south for 17 miles, then Route TT east into the conservation area. Once there, follow the internal roads: turn right for 3 miles, right again for 0.9 miles, then right to the ramp. This 6,705-acre conservation area includes additional water access points to Horseshoe Lake and Flag Pond.

**River Character & Paddling Conditions**
The Salt River at this location is a major waterway with significant flow—averaging 1,291 cubic feet per second with an average velocity of 6.95 feet/second. Paddlers should expect moderate current and plan accordingly for their skill level. The river's 17 ft/mile average gradient indicates steady downstream flow over a long distance. With a drainage area of over 12,000 square miles, water levels can vary seasonally, so conditions may change significantly between seasons.

**What to Expect**
The conservation area's infrastructure includes levees, pump stations, and water control structures throughout the property. The concrete ramp provides reliable access for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboats. This is a good staging point for exploring the Salt River system, whether planning day trips or longer paddles on this major stream.